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Jamb Registration 2025 Postponed: What Candidates Need To Know

In a significant update for prospective university students, the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) has announced a shift in the commencement date for the 2025 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) registration. Originally scheduled to begin on Friday, January 31, 2025, the registration process will now kick off on Monday, February 3, 2025. This three-day delay, though seemingly minor, has sparked widespread interest and raised questions among candidates, parents, and educational stakeholders.

The announcement was made by Dr. Fabian Benjamin, JAMB’s Public Communication Advisor, in a statement released to newsmen in Abuja on Friday. According to Dr. Benjamin, the postponement was necessitated by the need to implement critical adjustments to the registration templates. These adjustments are directly linked to recent developments in the Nigerian educational landscape, particularly concerning the suspension of certain law programmes at selected universities.

Why the Delay? Unpacking the Reasons Behind the Postponement

The JAMB official emphasized that the adjustment in the registration timeline was crucial to enable the Board to make necessary and critical modifications to its registration templates. According to the statement, these changes are essential to address recent developments and ensure the registration process aligns with current regulatory requirements and standards. The official further explained that the additional time would allow the Board to refine its systems, incorporate updates, and resolve any identified issues, ultimately ensuring a smoother and more efficient registration experience for all candidates and stakeholders.

The decision to delay the UTME registration process was not made lightly. Dr. Benjamin explained that the Board needed additional time to address two major issues that have emerged in recent weeks.

1. Suspension of Law Programmes at Selected Universities
One of the primary reasons for the delay is the suspension of law programmes at several universities across the country. This decision was initiated by the Council for Legal Education (CLE), which identified regulatory violations in the way these programmes were being administered. As a result, the CLE submitted a list of affected institutions to JAMB, prompting the Board to make necessary adjustments to its registration templates to reflect these changes.

The affected universities include:

• Kwara State University, Malete, Kwara State

• Bingham University, Karu, Nasarawa State

• Redeemers University, Ede, Osun State

• Western Delta University, Oghara, Delta State

• Taraba State University, Jalingo, Taraba State

• Arthur Jarvis University, Akpabuyo, Cross River State

• Alex Ekwueme Federal University, Ndufu-Alike, Ebonyi State

• Nigerian Police Academy, Wudil, Kano State

Of particular note is the suspension of the Law programme at the Nigerian Police Academy, which will last for two academic sessions (2025/2026 and 2026/2027). This means that candidates hoping to study Law at these institutions will need to reconsider their options or explore alternative universities that are still accredited to offer the programme.

2. Deceptive Practices at Computer-Based Test (CBT) Centres
The second reason for the postponement revolves around the discovery that some CBT centres had used deceptive means to gain approval from JAMB. These centres allegedly presented facilities that did not meet the Board’s standards during the accreditation process, only to fall short when it came to actual examination conditions. This revelation has prompted JAMB to conduct a thorough review of all approved CBT centres to ensure they meet the required standards.

Dr. Benjamin emphasized that the Board is committed to maintaining the integrity of the UTME process and will not hesitate to disapprove any centre found wanting. This additional scrutiny, while necessary, has contributed to the need for more time to finalize the registration process.

JAMB’s Apology and Assurance to Stakeholders

In his statement, Dr. Benjamin acknowledged the inconvenience that the postponement might cause to candidates and other stakeholders. He expressed the Board’s sincere apologies and assured the public that the additional time would be used to ensure a seamless and efficient registration process.

“We understand that this delay may disrupt the plans of many candidates and their families,” he said. “However, we believe that these adjustments are essential to uphold the integrity of the UTME and ensure that all candidates have a fair and equal opportunity to succeed.”

What Does This Mean for Candidates?

For the millions of candidates preparing to sit for the 2025 UTME, this announcement serves as both a reminder and a call to action. Here’s what you need to know:

1. Revised Registration Timeline
The registration process will now begin on Monday, February 3, 2025, instead of January 31. Candidates are advised to take note of this change and plan accordingly. While the delay is only three days, it’s crucial to stay updated on any further announcements from JAMB.

2. Impact on Law Programme Aspirants
If you were planning to study Law at any of the affected universities, this announcement directly impacts your plans. JAMB has made it clear that it will not process admissions for the Law programme at these institutions for the 2025/2026 academic session. Candidates in this category are encouraged to explore alternative universities or consider other programmes that align with their career goals.

3. Importance of Choosing Accredited CBT Centres
The revelation about deceptive practices at some CBT centres underscores the importance of selecting only JAMB-approved centres for your examination. Before finalizing your registration, take the time to verify the accreditation status of your chosen centre. This will help you avoid last-minute complications and ensure a smooth examination experience.

Looking Ahead: What to Expect from JAMB in the Coming Weeks

As the new registration date approaches, candidates can expect JAMB to release detailed guidelines and instructions for the 2025 UTME. These guidelines will cover everything from the registration process to examination dates, syllabus, and recommended preparation materials.

In the meantime, here are some steps you can take to stay ahead:

• Visit JAMB’s Official Website Regularly: The Board frequently updates its website with important announcements and resources. Make it a habit to check for updates at least once a week.

• Join JAMB’s Social Media Channels: JAMB often shares real-time updates on its social media platforms. Following these channels can help you stay informed.

• Start Your Preparation Early: While the registration process is important, your ultimate goal is to excel in the examination. Use this time to review past questions, study the syllabus, and identify areas where you need improvement.

Final Thoughts: Turning Challenges into Opportunities

While the postponement of the UTME registration may seem like a setback, it’s important to view it as an opportunity to refine your plans and ensure you’re fully prepared for the journey ahead. The adjustments being made by JAMB are ultimately aimed at creating a fair and transparent examination process for all candidates.

As you navigate this period, remember that success in the UTME is not just about academic knowledge but also about staying informed, being adaptable, and maintaining a positive mindset. With the right preparation and a clear understanding of the process, you can turn this challenge into a stepping stone toward achieving your academic dreams.

Stay tuned for more updates, and best of luck in your UTME journey!