The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) has raised fresh concerns over the integrity of Nigeria’s admission system after a report revealed thousands of technology-driven examination malpractices during the 2025 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME).
Presenting the findings in Abuja, Chairman of the Special Committee on Examination Infractions, Jake Epelle, disclosed that investigators documented 4,251 cases of “finger blending,” a biometric fraud method where candidates manipulate fingerprint recognition systems to evade identification checks. In addition, 192 instances of impersonation aided by artificial intelligence (AI) through image morphing technology were detected.
“What we discovered shocked us deeply,” Epelle said. “Examination malpractices have evolved into a highly organised, technologically driven, and culturally normalized enterprise.”
The report underscores the growing challenge of curbing digital examination fraud in Nigeria. Finger blending, once considered rare, has now emerged as one of the most common methods used by candidates to bypass biometric verification. AI-assisted impersonation, where candidates digitally alter facial images to mimic registered candidates, represents a newer, more sophisticated trend.
JAMB officials noted that such practices threaten the credibility of the UTME and compromise the fairness of the admission process. With over 1.9 million candidates sitting for the exam annually, the scale of these infractions poses a significant risk to Nigeria’s education system.
The committee recommended the adoption of advanced biometric solutions, including multi-modal verification systems that combine fingerprint, facial, and iris recognition to reduce vulnerabilities. It also urged JAMB to strengthen collaborations with security agencies, technology providers, and academic institutions to stay ahead of emerging fraud tactics.
Education stakeholders warn that if unchecked, these practices could erode confidence in Nigeria’s tertiary admission process. “Resorting to technology for malpractice sends the wrong message to young people,” Epelle said, stressing the need for collective action by parents, schools, and communities.
JAMB, which has championed the use of technology in curbing exam malpractice over the past decade, pledged to implement the committee’s recommendations. The Board said it will continue to innovate its verification and monitoring processes to safeguard the integrity of its examinations.
