The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) has initiated its financial commitment to the 2025 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) cycle by disbursing a substantial sum of N397,030,900 for transport allowances. This initial disbursement, earmarked for 1,909 officials involved in the upcoming Mock UTME scheduled for April 10, 2025, signifies the commencement of JAMB’s logistical and operational preparations for the crucial examination period. This payment represents the first tranche of transport allowances, covering only one-third of the total number of officials expected to participate in the entire examination process, suggesting a significantly larger financial commitment is anticipated as the main UTME approaches. The allocation of these funds underscores JAMB’s emphasis on facilitating smooth and efficient movement of personnel crucial for the successful administration of the examination nationwide.
The disbursement of the transport allowance was announced by JAMB’s Director of Finance, Mr. Mufutau Bello, during a strategic meeting focused on assessing the board’s preparedness for both the Mock UTME and the main UTME. This meeting served as a platform to review logistical arrangements, address potential challenges, and ensure the alignment of all stakeholders involved in the examination process. Bello emphasized the crucial role of the Mock UTME as a vital preparatory stage, both for candidates and for the JAMB administrative machinery, underscoring its importance in fine-tuning logistical operations, identifying and rectifying potential bottlenecks, and ensuring the overall readiness for the main UTME. The successful execution of the Mock UTME is viewed as a critical precursor to the smooth and credible conduct of the main examination.
Bello highlighted the national significance of the UTME, portraying it as a pivotal event with far-reaching implications for the integrity of the Nigerian education system. He stressed that the credibility and reputation of the examination process directly impact the perceived quality and trustworthiness of the educational qualifications it confers. Any shortcomings or lapses in the administration of the UTME, he cautioned, could potentially undermine the overall credibility of the Nigerian education system, affecting both individual candidates and the broader educational landscape. This underscores JAMB’s commitment to upholding the highest standards of transparency, efficiency, and integrity in its operations.
The initial disbursement of funds for transport allowances is a proactive measure designed to ensure the timely deployment of personnel to their designated examination centers across the country. It reflects JAMB’s commitment to mitigating logistical challenges and minimizing any potential disruptions to the examination schedule. This proactive approach aims to prevent any delays or inconveniences that could arise from late arrival of officials, ensuring that the examination process proceeds smoothly and efficiently. The early disbursement is also a demonstration of JAMB’s commitment to its personnel, ensuring they are adequately supported to fulfill their roles in this critical national exercise.
In response to the financial commitment and the emphasis on the importance of the UTME, JAMB staff expressed their dedication to ensuring a seamless and successful conduct of both the Mock UTME and the main UTME across the nation. They acknowledged the weight of their responsibilities and pledged their commitment to upholding the integrity of the examination process. This collective commitment highlights the shared understanding within JAMB of the critical role they play in shaping the educational future of Nigerian students. Their dedication to the smooth execution of the examinations reinforces the board’s focus on delivering a credible and efficient assessment process.
During the meeting, discussions also touched upon the subject of local travel allowances. The JAMB staff clarified that some of the concerns raised regarding these allowances often stem from a lack of understanding of the intricate logistics involved in managing a nationwide examination. They emphasized the complexity of coordinating the movement of personnel and materials across diverse geographical locations, which requires a robust and well-planned logistical framework. This explanation sought to address potential misconceptions and provide clarity on the rationale behind the allocation of resources for travel allowances, highlighting the significant logistical undertaking involved in managing a national examination like the UTME.
