13. January 2026
Admin
JAMB Orders Universities to Reverse Irregular Admissions to Uphold Merit and Fairness
The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) has directed Nigerian universities and other tertiary institutions to **reverse irregular admissions** where candidates with higher rankings were reportedly overlooked in favor of those with lower scores. The Board insists that admissions must be conducted strictly in accordance with established guidelines to ensure fairness and transparency.
Quick Insight:
JAMB’s action reinforces its commitment to merit-based admissions and the proper application of its three-tier selection framework, which prioritizes candidates based on ranking before other factors.
What Prompted the Directive
• JAMB’s weekly bulletin revealed that some institutions admitted candidates with lower scores ahead of better-ranked applicants, contrary to the rules governing higher education admissions.
• The Board identified this as a violation of the merit principle and warned affected institutions to undo such admissions immediately.
• JAMB clarified that all admissions should follow a clear process where candidates are selected in strict descending order of ranking within each tier of Merit, Catchment Area, and Educationally Less Developed States.
Commitment to Fair and Transparent Admissions
• The Board reiterated that no candidate with a higher ranking should be displaced by another with a lower ranking during the admission process.
• JAMB emphasized that adherence to guidelines protects the rights of all applicants and preserves the integrity of the higher education system.
• Institutions that fail to comply may face further scrutiny or sanctions to ensure compliance with national admission standards.
Handling Complaints and Misunderstandings
• In issuing the directive, JAMB also addressed a recent allegation from a candidate who claimed to have been unfairly denied admission.
• After investigation, the Board clarified that the candidate’s non-admission was in line with due process, as several other applicants with higher rankings were ahead of her on the list.
• JAMB urged candidates to verify concerns through official channels rather than relying on unverified claims circulating online.
Final Thoughts
JAMB’s order for universities to reverse irregular admissions underscores the importance of enforcing merit and due process in Nigeria’s higher education system. By ensuring that ranking remains the foremost criterion in admissions, the Board aims to uphold fairness, protect aspiring students, and maintain confidence in the integrity of tertiary selections nationwide.
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