NANS Slams JAMB Over Sudden UTME Date Change

The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) has condemned the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) for the abrupt rescheduling of the 2025 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME).

Originally slated to begin on Friday, April 25, JAMB announced a new start date of Thursday, April 24. This sudden adjustment, according to NANS, has caused significant disruptions, especially for candidates who had already made travel arrangements and preparations based on the initial schedule.

In a statement, NANS described the decision as inconsiderate, criticizing JAMB for failing to consider the logistical and emotional strain placed on students, many of whom are traveling from distant locations to write their exams.

JAMB, through its spokesperson Dr. Fabian Benjamin, defended the move, explaining that the rescheduling was necessary to accommodate vital commitments involving the Board and its partners. He also assured that no candidate would be posted outside their state of registration and that examination centers would be within candidates’ chosen towns.

Despite these reassurances, NANS insists that better planning and communication are needed to avoid such last-minute changes in the future.

Meanwhile, the UTME exercise is reportedly progressing smoothly across most centers, with only minimal technical issues recorded. However, stakeholders have called on JAMB to deploy medical personnel to examination venues to handle any emergencies that may arise.

In a related development, JAMB has delisted four Computer-Based Test (CBT) centers for various infractions and handed over 27 individuals suspected of impersonation to law enforcement authorities for prosecution.

Candidates are advised to stay updated via official JAMB channels and strictly adhere to all examination guidelines.