…..The examination body says its zero-tolerance policy on corruption applies to employees who exploit candidates or abuse their positions.
The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) has terminated the appointment of one of its staff members over the extortion of unsuspecting candidates.
The examination body disclosed the disciplinary action in its weekly bulletin released on Monday, September 21, 2026, as it reaffirmed its commitment to protecting the integrity of Nigeria’s admission and examination processes.
JAMB did not disclose the identity of the affected staff member or provide details about the specific circumstances surrounding the alleged extortion.
However, the Board said the termination demonstrated that its efforts to tackle fraud within the admission and examination system would not focus only on individuals operating outside the organisation.
JAMB Warns Staff Against Misconduct
According to the Board, employees must avoid any conduct capable of undermining its operations or exploiting candidates and members of the public.
JAMB warned that staff members found engaging in misconduct would face severe consequences under its established rules.
The Board said its action against the unnamed employee should serve as a clear warning to its workforce that its zero-tolerance position on corruption and misconduct applies regardless of an employee’s position or status.
JAMB also stressed that employees entrusted with responsibilities involving candidates must not abuse the confidence placed in them.
The Board said it would not shield staff members who cross the line or use their positions to exploit candidates or members of the public.
The disciplinary action therefore forms part of what JAMB described as a broader effort to ensure that the integrity measures applied to external fraudsters also apply within the organisation.
Crackdown Extends Beyond External Fraudsters
JAMB has continued to face the challenge of fraudulent activities surrounding admissions and examinations, including individuals who claim they can influence examination outcomes or provide special assistance to candidates.
The Board has previously warned candidates and parents against individuals and groups making such claims.
In February 2026, JAMB said it uncovered a fraud network that allegedly used fake identities, fabricated materials and claims of illegal assistance to deceive UTME candidates. The Board said more than 100 candidates had paid money to the syndicate in an attempt to influence their examination outcomes.
The latest disciplinary action involving a JAMB employee adds an internal dimension to the Board’s campaign against exploitation.
JAMB said its determination to sanitise the admission and examination processes is not limited to people outside the institution.
The Board maintained that internal misconduct can also undermine public confidence in the systems responsible for processing examinations, admissions and related services.
Board Emphasises Accountability
JAMB said the termination sends an “unequivocal message” that its zero-tolerance policy covers everyone within the organisation.
The Board added that it would not protect employees who abuse their offices or compromise the trust placed in them by candidates and members of the public.
It further warned staff against engaging in what it described as “unwholesome conduct”, particularly actions capable of undermining the credibility of JAMB or exploiting people who depend on its services.
Under the Board’s position, staff members who compromise its operations can face sanctions in accordance with established procedures.
Candidate Protection Remains Central
The issue of candidate exploitation remains particularly sensitive because applicants often depend on official JAMB channels for registration, examination-related services, admission processing and other activities.
JAMB’s official website provides information and support channels for candidates, including guidance on its examination and admission processes. The Board also operates a Central Online Support System through which candidates can raise complaints and seek assistance.
The Board’s FAQ also states that it maintains a cashless registration regime for UTME and Direct Entry applications and other services, specifically to help protect candidates from unnecessary exploitation.
JAMB’s latest warning reinforces the distinction between legitimate services provided through its official channels and individuals who may attempt to exploit candidates by claiming to have special access or influence.
JAMB Reaffirms Commitment to Clean Workforce
The examination body said its efforts to protect the credibility of Nigeria’s admission and examination system must begin within the organisation itself.
JAMB reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining what it described as a clean, accountable and professional workforce.
The Board said staff members must understand that their positions come with responsibilities and that any conduct that compromises those responsibilities will attract disciplinary consequences.
While JAMB did not disclose further details about the terminated employee, the announcement makes clear that the Board intends to apply its anti-fraud measures internally as well as externally.
The development also comes as JAMB continues to handle candidate-related services and admission processes for thousands of prospective students across the country.
For candidates and members of the public, the Board’s latest position is a reminder to use official JAMB channels for examination and admission-related transactions and to report suspected misconduct through the appropriate mechanisms.
JAMB said the fight against fraud and misconduct must begin from within if the integrity of its operations is to be fully preserved.
