The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board has completed the full automation of its question-setting process for the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination, marking a major step in its digital transformation and efforts to strengthen the credibility of Nigeria’s admission system.
The development was disclosed by the Registrar of JAMB, Prof. Ishaq Oloyede, during a training programme for test developers at the University of Ibadan.
According to him, the new system allows examination questions to be set electronically from different locations across the country, eliminating the need for physical meetings and improving efficiency.
Oloyede explained that the automation of question authoring is the final phase of a digital reform that began about 10 years ago.
“We are here at the University of Ibadan to do the last round of our automation process. This phase is about automating the authoring of questions. Our authors can now set questions from their various locations without having to travel across the country,” he said.
He said the initiative would make the process cheaper, faster, and more secure, while also reducing logistical challenges and opportunities for malpractice.
The move is expected to further improve the integrity of the UTME, which is the main entrance examination for Nigerian universities, polytechnics, and colleges of education.
Over the years, JAMB has introduced several technological innovations, including computer-based testing, biometric verification, and real-time monitoring of examinations.
Experts say these reforms have significantly reduced examination fraud and strengthened public confidence in the system.
The latest phase is seen as a major milestone in Nigeria’s efforts to modernise its education sector and align with global digital standards.
Oloyede also revealed that the board has expanded its network of Computer-Based Test centres nationwide to improve access and convenience for candidates.
According to him, the number of CBT centres increased from about 800 in 2025 to over 1,000 in 2026.
This expansion is aimed at reducing overcrowding, travel stress, and delays during registration and examinations.
He disclosed that about two million candidates had already registered for the 2026 UTME as of the time of the announcement, surpassing the figure recorded at the same period last year.
The registrar warned that the sale of application pins would end on February 26 and there would be no extension, urging candidates to complete their registration before the deadline.
He also cautioned parents and candidates against engaging in examination malpractice or seeking shortcuts.
“There is no shortcut to education. We are monitoring the system closely, and those attempting to subvert it will be apprehended,” he said.
The automation initiative comes amid growing demand for transparency and fairness in Nigeria’s education system.
Millions of Nigerian youths compete for limited admission spaces every year, making the credibility of the UTME critical to national development.
Nigeria’s population growth and limited number of tertiary institutions have placed increasing pressure on the admission process.
Education experts say digital reforms such as automation, biometric verification, and computer-based testing are essential to managing this challenge.
They argue that technology can improve efficiency, reduce human interference, and ensure equal opportunities for candidates.
The Vice-Chancellor of the Federal University of Technology, Akure, Prof. Adenike Oladeji, also commended the development, saying it would improve quality assurance in the education system.
She noted that automated question setting would enhance standardisation and reduce errors in the examination process.
The UTME has undergone major transformation since JAMB introduced computer-based testing in 2013.
Before the reform, the examination was conducted using paper-based methods, which were prone to leakages, impersonation, and other forms of malpractice.
The introduction of digital testing significantly changed the system, allowing candidates to take exams on computers while results are released faster.
The automation of question setting is expected to further strengthen the system by improving confidentiality and reducing the risk of question leaks.
Security analysts say digital examination systems are harder to manipulate because of encryption, restricted access, and real-time monitoring.
However, some stakeholders have also raised concerns about infrastructure, power supply, and internet connectivity in parts of Nigeria.
They say these challenges must be addressed to ensure equal access for candidates in rural and underserved areas.
Others have called for continued training of personnel and technical support to prevent disruptions.
The Federal Government has repeatedly emphasised the role of technology in improving education, governance, and national development.
In recent years, the government has promoted digital literacy, online learning, and innovation in the education sector.
Analysts say the JAMB reform aligns with global trends, where examination bodies are adopting digital tools to improve reliability and transparency.
Countries such as the United Kingdom, United States, and India have also implemented computer-based and online testing in various sectors.
The development is also expected to reduce operational costs and improve sustainability.
Physical transportation, accommodation, and logistics for examination officials often cost millions of naira annually.
With automation, many of these expenses could be reduced.
The initiative may also encourage other examination bodies such as WAEC and NECO to deepen their digital reforms.
Observers say stronger collaboration between agencies could improve the overall quality of education assessment in Nigeria.
For students and parents, the announcement brings renewed hope that admission processes will become more transparent and efficient.
However, expectations remain high for continuous improvement and fairness.
As Nigeria’s education system continues to evolve, experts believe digital transformation will play a central role in expanding access, strengthening credibility, and preparing students for a technology-driven future.
The completion of JAMB’s automation process is therefore seen as a landmark step in modernising Nigeria’s education sector and ensuring that merit, rather than manipulation, determines access to higher education.
