JAMB to restore prison CBT centres suspended over malpractice

The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) has announced plans to reinstate its computer-based test (CBT) centres within Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS) facilities.

JAMB had previously cancelled CBT centres in Kaduna, Lagos, and Ilorin due to reports of unethical practices by individuals both within and outside the NCoS.

The exact date of the initial suspension of JAMB’s CBT centres within correctional service facilities is unclear.

However, the board said the malpractices had compromised the integrity of the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME).

After extensive discussions with NCoS leadership, the board said the decision has been reversed.

Sylvester Ndidi Nwakuche, the acting controller-general of the NCoS, visited JAMB’s headquarters in Abuja on February 28, 2025.

Ishaq Oloyede, JAMB’s registrar, reaffirmed the board’s commitment to supporting young offenders nearing the completion of their sentences and wishing to pursue further education.

He acknowledged that some officials had misused the initiative to enrol their children, undermining its intended purpose.

The registrar expressed disappointment over these breaches of trust and confirmed that JAMB has set up a four-member committee to develop new guidelines for the centres’ reinstatement.

During the meeting, Nwakuche commended JAMB for its efforts to provide educational opportunities for rehabilitated offenders.

He highlighted the impact of such initiatives, noting that many inmates had successfully reintegrated into society.

He also urged JAMB to offer additional waivers for qualified inmates seeking admission into tertiary institutions.

Nwakuche revealed that the NCoS currently houses more than 80,000 inmates, including 53,000 awaiting trial and around 3,808 on death row.

He also spoke about the ongoing collaboration between the NCoS and the National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN), which has enabled inmates to author books and contribute to vocational fields.

Nwakuche stressed the importance of JAMB’s initiatives in rehabilitating offenders, noting that many had gained additional qualifications.

The meeting concluded with both parties reaffirming their commitment to collaboration and enhancing educational opportunities for inmates.