The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) has clarified that candidates are not required to remove their hijabs during registration for the 2026 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME), following public concerns over an alleged incident at Afe Babalola University (ABUAD).
The clarification came after a video surfaced on social media alleging that a female candidate was asked to remove her hijab before biometric capture. The video triggered debate about possible discrimination against Muslim candidates during the registration process.
In a statement issued via its verified platform, JAMB stated that it has never issued any directive prohibiting candidates from wearing the hijab, either in the past or presently.
According to the Board, the procedure in question relates to a standard biometric requirement that mandates visibility of both ears during photo capture. JAMB explained that this is a global practice applied in international passport and visa processing to ensure accurate facial recognition and identification.
The Board emphasised that the requirement does not necessitate removing the hijab itself, but only ensuring that the ears are visible during the biometric process.
“She was requested to formally state in writing that she personally chose not to comply with the guideline regarding ear visibility, so that the record would accurately reflect the circumstances and prevent future misrepresentation,” the statement noted, adding that the candidate was eventually captured successfully.
Reiterating its position, JAMB stressed: “For clarity, candidates are not required to remove their hijab. The simple requirement is that the ears be visible during photo capture, which can be done without removing the hijab itself.”
The Board further urged members of the public to avoid spreading misleading information and to seek proper clarification when necessary. It reaffirmed its commitment to respecting the rights and religious beliefs of all candidates, irrespective of background.
Meanwhile, JAMB confirmed that registration for the 2026 UTME commenced on January 26, 2026, and will close on February 28, 2026. The Registrar, Ishaq Oloyede, disclosed that e-PIN vending began on January 19 and will end on February 26, 2026.
For Direct Entry (DE) candidates, sale of application documents and e-PIN vending will begin on March 2, 2026, and close on April 25, 2026, with registration conducted exclusively at JAMB zonal and state offices nationwide.
The Board assured candidates and stakeholders that adequate measures have been put in place to ensure a smooth, fair, and inclusive registration process across the country.
