House Reps Pledge to Address UTME Logistical Challenges

The House of Representatives Committee on Basic Examination Bodies has committed to helping the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) resolve the logistical and infrastructural challenges affecting the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME).

Chairman Oboku Oforji made the pledge during an oversight tour of examination centres in Abuja on Friday. He described the UTME as a critical platform for Nigerian youths, stating, “To me and the committee, we are very proud of what JAMB is doing. Seeing what they are doing today gives us hope for our country.”

The committee identified issues such as poorly ventilated and cramped halls, lack of air conditioning, and inadequate medical support. “Some halls were too compact, and candidates were seen fanning themselves because of poor ventilation. We frown at the absence of nurses and inadequate first aid facilities in some centres, especially those hosting up to 250 candidates,” Oforji said.

He also addressed complaints from candidates about multiple payments and registration glitches, promising these concerns would be discussed with JAMB leadership soon. Despite the difficulties, he praised the candidates’ zeal and determination.