By Adesakin Adefemi
The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) has issued a stern warning to candidates registering for the 2026 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME): provide accurate information or face severe consequences.
The Board’s Registrar, Prof. Ishaq Oloyede, emphasized that registration infraction is a serious offence that will not be taken lightly.
Candidates who attempt to falsify data or provide fictitious information risk being barred from sitting the UTME for up to three years. Their names may also be published in national dailies and circulated to other public examination bodies.
In extreme cases, defaulters may be handed over to law enforcement agencies, including the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission and the Nigerian Police, for prosecution.
The warning comes as the 2026 UTME registration, which commenced on January 26, enters its third week. Prof. Oloyede stressed that the attestation signed by candidates during registration is a formal verification process that confirms the authenticity of academic credentials and all information submitted.
“This is not a trivial matter,” Prof. Oloyede emphasized. “We will not hesitate to take drastic measures against candidates who attempt to cheat the system. We are committed to ensuring that the UTME is a fair and transparent process, and we will do everything in our power to prevent fraud.”
The attestation clause has been incorporated into the registration process due to lessons learned from previous legal battles with candidates. JAMB is determined to prevent a repeat of past irregularities and ensure that only deserving candidates gain admission to tertiary institutions.
Candidates are advised to take note of the warning and ensure they comply with the registration requirements. The Board’s message is clear: honesty is the best policy, and those who attempt to cheat will be caught and punished.
As the registration deadline approaches, JAMB is urging candidates to take the process seriously and provide accurate information. Don’t risk losing the opportunity of a lifetime ensure your registration is flawless and your credentials are genuine.
