Senate Questions JAMB Fees, Calls for Reforms

The Nigerian Senate has expressed strong concerns over fees charged by the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB), questioning whether they are affordable for students nationwide.

During a budget defence session, lawmakers criticised the cost of the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME), noting that many Nigerian households are already facing economic hardship.

The Senate observed that even the current fee of about ₦3,500 remains a challenge for many prospective candidates.

Chairman of the Senate Committee on Tertiary Institutions, Amos Yohanna, called for a further reduction in the fee, urging JAMB to focus on accessibility and fairness.

Beyond the issue of charges, lawmakers also highlighted challenges faced by candidates, “including technical glitches during registration and examinations”, as well as limited access to Computer Based Test (CBT) centres, especially in rural areas.

The Senate also questioned JAMB’s projected revenue, including plans to generate about ₦23.8 billion internally in 2026, calling for greater transparency and accountability.

In response, JAMB officials stated that the UTME fee had already been reduced from ₦5,000 to ₦3,500, adding that steps are being taken to expand CBT centres across the country and improve the examination process.

The Senate, however, maintained its call for reforms aimed at reducing the financial burden on students while ensuring a more efficient and inclusive admissions system.