JAMB Issues Stern Warning to 2026 UTME Candidates Over False Registration Data

JAMB Issues Stern Warning to 2026 UTME Candidates Over False Registration Data

The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) has issued a powerful and unequivocal warning to all candidates preparing to register for the 2026 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME). The board has explicitly cautioned against the provision of any false or misleading information during the critical registration process, emphasizing that offenders face severe consequences that could permanently derail their academic aspirations.

Severe Sanctions for Registration Infractions

According to JAMB's official statement, candidates who submit incorrect personal details or falsified academic records risk losing their hard-earned admission slots entirely. The board has clarified that such actions constitute serious offenses that may attract additional punitive measures, including being barred from participating in future UTME examinations for up to three years. In more extreme cases, offenders might face public exposure of their names as part of disciplinary actions and possible legal prosecution through relevant authorities.

JAMB explained that false information doesn't merely affect the registration phase but can create significant complications during subsequent admission screening and institutional clearance processes. The examination body stressed that any form of registration infraction—whether deliberate alteration of personal data, submission of falsified academic records, or presentation of documents belonging to someone else—will be treated with the utmost seriousness.

The Critical Attestation Clause

JAMB has directly linked its warning to the attestation clause that every candidate must sign during registration. This mandatory declaration requires candidates to confirm that all information and documents submitted are completely genuine and accurate. By signing this clause, candidates accept full legal and administrative responsibility for every entry made during their registration process.

The board emphasized that the attestation clause serves as a crucial safeguard, making it significantly easier to hold candidates accountable if false information is discovered later. This mechanism also helps reduce potential disputes and legal challenges that might arise after registration or admission decisions have been finalized.

Common Registration Errors and Misrepresentations

JAMB has identified several areas where candidates frequently make mistakes or engage in deliberate misrepresentation during previous admission exercises:

• Incorrect spelling or improper arrangement of names
• Wrong date of birth entries
• Inconsistent personal details across different documents
• Incorrect O'Level subjects or grades
• Use of examination results that cannot be properly verified
• Failure to disclose required personal or academic status information

While acknowledging that minor, unintentional errors can occasionally occur, the board issued a firm warning that deliberately changing information to gain unfair advantage will not be tolerated under any circumstances. Candidates were strongly advised to meticulously review every section of their registration before final submission.

Special Warning to Already Matriculated Students

JAMB addressed a specific category of candidates—those already enrolled in tertiary institutions who still wish to register for the UTME. The board mandated that such candidates must honestly disclose their current academic status where required during registration. Failure to provide this crucial information may lead to the cancellation of both their existing admission and any new admission secured through the UTME process.

The board categorically stated that non-disclosure of relevant information constitutes an act of academic dishonesty that will attract appropriate penalties when discovered, regardless of when the discovery occurs.

Registration Guidelines and Deadlines

JAMB issued several important registration guidelines:

1. Use Only Accredited Registration Centers: Candidates were warned against using unaccredited centers, roadside agents, or unverified middlemen. The board explained that many cases of altered or incorrect data occur when candidates entrust their details to unauthorized individuals.
2. Fixed Registration Deadline: JAMB reminded candidates that the 2026 UTME registration has a fixed closing date with no possibility of extension. The board advised against last-minute registration, noting that overcrowding and pressure during final days often lead to errors, rushed decisions, and costly mistakes.
3. Document Preservation: Candidates were advised to keep copies of all registration documents including registration slips, payment receipts, confirmation printouts, and any correction records. These documents may be needed during admission screening, clearance, or complaint resolution processes.

Commitment to Examination Integrity

The board reaffirmed its unwavering commitment to maintaining fairness, transparency, and integrity throughout the examination and admission process. JAMB stated it would continue collaborating with relevant government agencies and tertiary institutions to monitor compliance and enforce established rules consistently.

JAMB emphasized that its primary goal is not to punish candidates unnecessarily but to encourage honesty, accuracy, and responsibility throughout the entire admission system. The board's ultimate objective remains ensuring that only qualified and honest candidates gain access to Nigeria's tertiary institutions.

Final Advice to Candidates and Parents

JAMB offered crucial advice to all stakeholders in the admission process:

For candidates:

• Prepare correct personal and academic details well in advance
• Read all registration instructions carefully and completely
• Ask questions at accredited centers whenever uncertain
• Review all entries thoroughly before signing the attestation clause

For parents and guardians:

• Guide candidates appropriately without pressuring them to manipulate records
• Avoid encouraging shortcuts or unethical practices
• Support candidates in maintaining academic integrity

The examination body stressed that UTME registration forms the foundational stage of the entire admission process. Any false information entered at this critical juncture can have devastating long-term consequences on academic careers. JAMB therefore advised all 2026 UTME candidates to register honestly, verify their details thoroughly, and comply fully with established guidelines to avoid losing their opportunity for tertiary education admission.