By Abdulhammed Abdulmalik Ayodeji | Fact Frontier.
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The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) has issued a strong warning to candidates ahead of the 2026 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME), cautioning against the abuse of National Identification Numbers (NINs) and other registration-related infractions as the registration process officially begins on January 26.
The warning was issued as part of JAMB’s preparations to ensure a credible, transparent, and hitch-free registration and examination process. The board stressed that any attempt to manipulate identity data or bypass established guidelines would attract serious consequences.
Speaking on the matter, the JAMB Registrar, Professor Is-haq Oloyede, reiterated that the use of multiple NINs by a single candidate, double registration, impersonation, or any form of identity manipulation would not be tolerated.
Multiple or double registrations, coupled with the use of more than one National Identification Number by a candidate for impersonation or any other fraudulent purpose, is strictly prohibited and will attract severe sanctions,the Registrar warned.
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JAMB explained that the increasing integration of biometric data into its registration and examination systems makes it easier to detect irregularities, adding that candidates found culpable could face disqualification, cancellation of results, or prosecution, depending on the severity of the offence.
The board also warned candidates against other prohibited acts, including fingerprint donation, image morphing or blending, group registrations, and the use of unauthorised registration centres or equipment. According to JAMB, such practices undermine the integrity of the UTME and compromise the credibility of the admission process.
Candidates are expected to present themselves personally for registration. Any attempt to submit fingerprints or biometric data on behalf of another person is a serious violation,JAMB stated.
In addition, JAMB reaffirmed its cashless registration policy, noting that all payments for UTME and Direct Entry applications must be made through approved electronic channels. The policy, the board said, is aimed at reducing extortion, eliminating middlemen, and ensuring accountability throughout the registration process.
The board advised candidates to verify their personal information with the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) before initiating registration, stressing that discrepancies in names, dates of birth, or other personal details linked to NINs could result in delays or outright disqualification.
According to JAMB, UTME registration will run from January 26 to February 28, while Direct Entry registration is scheduled to commence in early March. The examination body urged candidates to complete their registration early and avoid last-minute rushes, which often lead to errors and exploitation by unscrupulous individuals.
Education stakeholders have welcomed the warning, noting that NIN-related abuses and identity manipulation have been recurring challenges in past admission cycles.
This warning is timely. Many students fall victim to shortcuts that later cost them their admission,an education consultant said.
JAMB also disclosed plans to intensify monitoring at accredited CBT centres nationwide, adding that erring centres could face suspension or withdrawal of accreditation if found complicit in registration malpractices.
The board encouraged parents and guardians to remain vigilant and guide their wards appropriately, stressing that no candidate needs an agent or third party to successfully complete UTME registration.
As the 2026 UTME registration gets underway, JAMB urged candidates to strictly adhere to all guidelines, warning that ignorance of the rules would not be accepted as an excuse.
The examination body reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining the integrity of Nigeria’s tertiary admission process, stressing that fairness, transparency, and equal opportunity for all candidates remain its guiding principles.
