The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) has expressed serious concern over the alarming increase in digital examination fraud during the 2025 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME). JAMB Registrar, Professor Is-haq Oloyede, revealed that more than 3,000 candidates are currently under investigation for involvement in various high-tech cheating schemes.
The methods used in the digital exam fraud include hacking of CBT centres, AI-driven impersonation, fingerprint manipulation, LAN extension schemes, and mercenary pairing. According to Professor Oloyede, some school and CBT centre operators allegedly infiltrated networks to remotely control candidates’ computers and submit answers on their behalf. Others used artificial intelligence to merge photos of candidates with impersonators, often involving current university students.
The digital exam fraud has led to the withdrawal of several candidates’ results and the arrest of suspects nationwide. Professor Oloyede warned that digital exam fraud poses a significant threat to the credibility of Nigeria’s education system, national development, and the integrity of academic assessments.
JAMB remains dedicated to transparency and accountability in conducting future exams. Professor Oloyede expressed appreciation to Nigeria’s security agencies and other examination bodies, including NECO, WAEC, TRCN, and ABU, for supporting the rescheduled UTME exams. He praised their flexibility and commitment to preserving the examination calendar.
The JAMB Registrar also thanked the Nigerian government and the public for their understanding and assured that JAMB will continue to work towards ensuring the integrity of the examination process. The investigation into the digital exam fraud is ongoing, with JAMB warning that it will not tolerate any form of examination malpractice.
The surge in digital exam fraud has raised concerns about the credibility of Nigeria’s education system. Professor Oloyede noted that rather than addressing the root of the issue, some individuals are busy promoting conspiracy theories and hatred, while the collective future is at risk due to these digital fraudsters.
JAMB remains committed to conducting fair and transparent examinations. The board has assured that it will take all necessary steps to prevent digital exam fraud and ensure the integrity of the examination process. With the support of security agencies and other examination bodies, JAMB is determined to tackle the menace of digital exam fraud and restore the credibility of Nigeria’s education system.
Professor Oloyede expressed gratitude to all stakeholders who have supported JAMB in its efforts to prevent examination malpractice. He urged candidates to focus on preparing well for the exams and to avoid engaging in any form of malpractice.
The board’s commitment to transparency and accountability is evident in its efforts to investigate and prevent digital exam fraud. JAMB’s actions demonstrate its dedication to maintaining the integrity of the examination process and ensuring that candidates are assessed fairly.
By taking a firm stance against digital exam fraud, JAMB aims to restore the credibility of Nigeria’s education system and ensure that candidates are assessed based on their merits. The board’s efforts to prevent examination malpractice will help to promote a culture of integrity and fairness in the education sector.
