By 1974, Nigeria had seven federal universities. Each institution conducted its own entrance examination for admission, but this method proved inefficient and burdensome for candidates—both financially and emotionally. In response, the Federal Government established the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) in 1978. The board was tasked with standardizing the admission process into all universities, polytechnics, and colleges of education across Nigeria.

Since its inception, JAMB has made significant strides in simplifying admissions and reducing the cost burden on students. By creating a unified matriculation examination, it ensured that all candidates, regardless of their chosen institution, were evaluated under the same standards.

However, this progress has not been without challenges. While many acknowledge JAMB’s achievements, concerns persist over its operations, especially following the introduction of the Computer-Based Test (CBT) system. Though CBT was only introduced in 2013 and made mandatory by 2015 to curb widespread malpractice, critics argue that Nigeria may not yet be fully equipped for a digital transition of this scale.

Indeed, the shift to CBT has revealed numerous systemic flaws. At several centers, poor internet connectivity delays exam commencement, and malfunctioning computers further frustrate candidates. The problem of unstable electricity supply, coupled with a shortage of reliable examination centers—particularly in rural areas—means many candidates must travel long distances, sometimes across states, just to sit for the exam.

This situation creates intense emotional and psychological distress. Some candidates face hours-long delays, with exams scheduled for early morning starting as late as 1:00 p.m. Others arrive only to find that their assigned computers are nonfunctional. These experiences not only exhaust students but can seriously impact their performance.

Adding to this burden are the broader social realities students face: financial hardship, broken homes, and the pressure to work like adults to support themselves. In such circumstances, expecting peak academic performance is unrealistic. While some blame social media, substance abuse, and gambling for the high rate of failure—over 75% of candidates scored below average in this year’s UTME—such criticisms ignore the larger context.

What do we say to the candidate who studied diligently, only to be undone by faulty equipment or logistical failures? What of those who journeyed long hours, alone and tired, to unfamiliar towns? Fatigue, anxiety, and instability are no less damaging than academic unpreparedness.

As Norman Vincent Peale once said, “Every problem has within it the seed of its own solution.” The issues plaguing JAMB’s processes are not insurmountable—they are opportunities for reform.

To begin with, the board must ensure thorough inspection and accreditation of CBT centers. Only well-equipped centers with stable internet and electricity should be approved. Increased investment in rural areas is vital—students in these regions deserve the same ease of access as those in urban centers. More centers would reduce the need for travel and mitigate the accompanying emotional toll.

Communication must also improve. Clear, timely instructions and public orientation on exam procedures will minimize confusion and mistakes. Candidates, on their part, must take personal responsibility—reading instructions carefully, confirming center locations beforehand, and seeking clarification when necessary.

Parents and guardians must also play their role in providing emotional and logistical support, recognizing that success in such a high-stakes exam goes beyond academics. Ultimately, ensuring a credible, fair, and humane examination system requires collective effort from policymakers, educators, parents, and the students themselves. With adequate planning, transparent operations, and a compassionate understanding of the candidates’ realities, JAMB can truly fulfill its founding vision: a gateway to equitable access to higher education.