The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) has revealed that it will officially commence the registration for the 2025 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) in January. While the specific date for opening the registration portal remains unspecified, prospective candidates are urged to prepare in advance for what is promised to be a smoother and more efficient registration process.
In a detailed announcement issued via its Monday Bulletin, the Board outlined the comprehensive steps taken to ensure that the upcoming examination is free from the glitches that impacted some parts of the 2024 UTME experience. It emphasized that prospective candidates will be subject to the full range of preparations made to guarantee a seamless registration process.
Though the registration portal’s official launch date is still pending, JAMB made it clear that early preparations are critical, especially the need for candidates to have their personal information ready. One of the primary steps advised to prevent delays is the creation of a profile by candidates via text message, using the format: “NIN” (space) followed by the 11-digit NIN number to 55019. According to the Board, this action will expedite their registration once the portal opens.
Thorough Review of 2024 Exam Issues
Reflecting on the challenges that occurred during the 2024 UTME, JAMB has asserted that it thoroughly reviewed all aspects of the previous exam cycle. Key areas that have received attention include the generation of examination items suitable for the Computer-Based Testing (CBT) system, as well as the accreditation process for examination centers across Nigeria.
A representative from JAMB, in a recent statement, remarked, “The lessons learned from the 2024 UTME have informed our approach to planning for the 2025 examination. We are confident that our efforts will result in a smooth process, ensuring that no candidate faces the type of challenges that were seen last year.”
The Board’s proactive review includes measures to address everything from the creation of appropriate exam materials to more rigorous monitoring of examination venues. This, JAMB promises, will enhance the overall examination experience and restore public trust in the integrity of the process.
Registration to Be Digital-First, Promises Simplicity
Echoing the central theme of a more efficient process, JAMB revealed that its technological infrastructure has been overhauled to promote a smoother, digital-first approach to UTME registration. This strategic shift aims to reduce the time spent at registration centers and avoid technical difficulties such as those experienced in previous years.
In particular, the Board has stated that extensive work has gone into improving biometric data capture, which remains a crucial element in the verification of candidates. Successful biometric verification is an absolute requirement for entry into the examination hall.
Candidates are thus advised to adhere to strict guidelines concerning their appearance and grooming ahead of the exam. A key concern highlighted by JAMB officials is the impact of henna application—also known as Laali or Lale—on the registration process.
Warning on Henna and Biometric Verification
According to the Board, the use of henna for finger decoration has led to serious problems during the biometric verification process. JAMB pointed out that applying henna to the fingers can obscure the whorls and patterns required to successfully register and verify candidates.
A JAMB spokesperson explained, “Henna designs on the fingers obstruct the capturing of fingerprints during biometric verification. In extreme cases, candidates who use chemicals to remove these designs may inadvertently harm the finger patterns, making it nearly impossible to verify their identity.” As a result, the Board has advised that all candidates avoid using henna for decorative purposes to ensure they don’t encounter verification difficulties at the registration or examination stages.
In a statement, JAMB further emphasized, “For the success of your UTME journey, protect your ten fingers and remember that your biometric verification is key to entering the examination hall. Without it, there will be no access to the examination questions.”
As the registration process begins, JAMB encourages candidates to be proactive in confirming the condition of their biometric data by adhering to these guidelines ahead of time. The warning on henna, in particular, reflects the Board’s commitment to reducing common registration obstacles and ensuring that the 2025 UTME runs as efficiently as possible.
Exam Centres Accredited, Standards Set High
As part of its preparations, the Board also revealed that the accreditation process for UTME examination centers is already completed for 2025. By ensuring that only centers that meet specific operational and technical standards are selected, JAMB aims to eradicate some of the logistical and infrastructural problems that marred previous examination sittings.
Although no specific figures were provided, sources within the Board hinted that a record number of centers have already passed accreditation tests. These developments should offer candidates a level of confidence in the centers’ ability to run examinations smoothly.
A recent interview with a senior JAMB official in Abuja indicated that rigorous checks on computer systems, power supply, and security arrangements were completed months ahead of the registration deadline. This, the source claimed, positions the 2025 UTME to be one of the best-conducted series of the examination in years.
JAMB’s board members have reassured candidates that proper guidelines on the accredited centers, including their locations and specific procedures to follow, will be made available on the official website when registration begins.
Ensuring Better Candidate Experience: A Collaborative Effort
The Board also reaffirmed its ongoing collaboration with relevant stakeholders—such as federal and state governments, educational institutions, and technological partners—to create a holistic environment for exam candidates. These partnerships, the Board suggests, will alleviate previous bottlenecks and reinforce the integrity of the UTME process.
JAMB’s Chairman, Prof. Ishaq Oloyede, in his statement ahead of the registration announcement, noted, “We have learned a great deal from the feedback and are committed to transforming the entire process for the betterment of all Nigerians. By leveraging the full capacity of the modern technological tools available, we aim to create the best exam experience in the country.”
