The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) has issued a strong caution to newly established tertiary institutions in Nigeria, warning them against engaging in illegal admissions practices. The announcement comes amid growing concerns over the increasing number of unauthorized admissions, which could compromise the integrity of the nation’s education system.
In a statement released by JAMB’s spokesperson, Dr. Fabian Benjamin, the board expressed its commitment to ensuring that all admissions into Nigerian universities, polytechnics, and colleges of education adhere to the rules and regulations set forth by the Federal Government. JAMB emphasized that any institution found violating these standards would face severe consequences, including the suspension of their accreditation and possible legal action.
“We will not tolerate any institution new or old that conducts admissions outside of the established procedures. The integrity of our education system depends on adherence to the rules, and we will take all necessary steps to safeguard this,” Dr. Benjamin said.
The warning follows reports that some new private and public tertiary institutions have been engaging in unauthorized admissions, bypassing the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board’s Central Admission Processing System (CAPS), which is the designated platform for managing student admissions in Nigeria. The CAPS system is designed to ensure transparency, fairness, and adherence to quotas set by the National Universities Commission (NUC) and other regulatory bodies.
JAMB’s statement also addressed concerns over the rise of illegal “admission rackets” in some regions, where intermediaries have been allegedly charging prospective students excessive fees for unapproved entry into institutions. These practices have led to a surge in unqualified candidates being admitted into courses for which they do not meet the necessary academic requirements.
For the first time, JAMB has clarified that all institutions, regardless of when they were established, must use the CAPS system to process admissions. This includes new universities and polytechnics that have been recently granted operational approval by the Federal Government.
The board has also made it clear that it will collaborate with the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) to monitor graduates from these institutions and ensure they meet the necessary qualifications. Additionally, JAMB has urged prospective students to be vigilant and report any institutions or individuals who promise admissions for a fee without proper documentation.
Education stakeholders have largely supported JAMB’s move, citing the need for greater accountability in the admissions process. Dr. Folake Oladele, a senior lecturer at the University of Lagos, commended JAMB’s proactive approach:
“This is a much-needed step to prevent the exploitation of both students and the integrity of our educational institutions. With illegal admissions practices becoming more prevalent, it is crucial that we hold these institutions accountable.”
The federal government has also reiterated its stance on ensuring that all institutions of higher learning operate within the bounds of the law. The Ministry of Education is expected to intensify monitoring efforts, particularly in the wake of JAMB’s warning, to ensure compliance with the admissions process across the country.
As the new academic session approaches, JAMB has called on all students, parents, and guardians to ensure they are fully informed about the legal procedures for gaining admission into Nigerian tertiary institutions. The board has also provided resources on how to verify the authenticity of admissions and avoid falling victim to fraudulent practices.
The warning to new tertiary institutions marks a critical moment in the ongoing efforts to reform Nigeria’s higher education system, and it underscores the importance of protecting the future of education from malpractice and corruption.
source: gazettengr.com
