Inadequate legislation limits JAMB’s anti-malpractice efforts, says director

The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) has identified inadequate legislation as a major challenge in tackling examination malpractice in Nigeria.

The JAMB Bulletin reports that Abd’rahim Gani, the director of the board’s human resource department, spoke at a monthly seminar on February 19, 2025, in Bwari, Abuja.

Abd’rahim recently completed the 2021/22 NDC Course 30, earned a fellowship, and presented his research titled “Examination Administration and National Development in Nigeria: The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board in Perspective.”

He stressed the role of credible examinations in national development and outlined the obstacles JAMB faces in combating malpractice.

Abd’rahim noted that the JAMB Act focuses on the board’s structure, membership, and funding but lacks provisions for imposing strict penalties on those involved in examination fraud.

He added that the Examination Malpractices Act of 1993 and its 2004 amendment do not adequately address modern forms of malpractice, particularly those driven by technology.

The director also identified inadequate technical knowledge among staff as a significant challenge.

He said despite JAMB’s efforts to provide training, many skilled personnel have left for better career opportunities.

Other issues he highlighted include poor remuneration, limited career development prospects, low public awareness of JAMB’s activities in rural areas, and slow broadband connectivity.

To address these challenges, Abd’rahim recommended comprehensive legal reforms and collaboration with the education and justice ministries to amend relevant laws.

He proposed special allowances and career incentives for IT professionals, the elimination of private computer-based test centres, and the establishment of a national broadband funding scheme.