- JAMB initiates high-level review of 2025 UTME results following widespread candidate protests and allegations of technical glitches
- Over 75% of candidates scored below 200, sparking calls for a remark and transparency in grading methods
- Despite the failure, 15-year-old Afolabi Ayodeji scored a record-breaking 370, the highest since JAMB adopted computer-based testing in 2013
The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) has announced a comprehensive review of the 2025 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) results following an outcry from candidates, parents, and education stakeholders.
In a notice made available to journalists, the board confirmed it would convene a high-level panel on Thursday, May 15, in Abuja to examine the entire examination process. The review panel will include vice-chancellors, rectors, provosts, school principals, examiners, IT professionals, and officials from regulatory and educational bodies across the country.
This move comes amid mounting protests over the recently released UTME results. Many candidates have alleged discrepancies and technical issues during the computer-based tests, with some demanding a full remark of their scripts.
Majority of 2025 UTME candidates scored below 200
JAMB data shows that out of the 1.96 million results processed, more than 75% of candidates—approximately 1.5 million—scored below 200 out of the maximum 400 marks. Only 12,414 candidates (0.63%) scored 300 and above, while just 4,756 (0.24%) scored 320 and above.
A breakdown of the scores is given below:
· 17.11% scored between 200–249
· 50.29% scored between 160–199
· 24.97% scored between 140–159
· Less than 1% scored below 120
The poor performance triggered suspicions, with over 8,000 complaints reportedly submitted regarding technical glitches, incomplete questions, and alleged result inconsistencies. One candidate, who previously scored 285 in 2024, claimed she received 156 this year, sparking further controversy on social media.
JAMB, FG say 2025 UTME results consistent with past trends
Despite the backlash, JAMB’s Registrar, Prof. Ishaq Oloyede, defended the 2025 results, insisting they were in line with historical patterns. He referenced similar outcomes in previous years, noting that in 2024, 76% of candidates also scored below 200, and in 2022, 78% failed to reach that benchmark.
The Minister of Education, Dr. Tunji Alausa, echoed this sentiment, stating the results reflect the effectiveness of the federal government’s anti-examination malpractice efforts. “This is clear evidence that integrity is being restored to the UTME system,” he said.
JAMB pledges to investigate, reschedule where necessary
In response to candidate complaints, JAMB’s spokesperson, Dr. Fabian Benjamin, said the board had fast-tracked its annual review process and was actively investigating reports of technical glitches.
He affirmed that the board would uphold its policy of rescheduling examinations for any candidates who genuinely experienced disruptions during their test.
Record-breaking score emerges despite mass failure
Despite the mass failure witnessed during this year’s UTME the controversy, a bright spot emerged: 15-year-old Afolabi Ayodeji from Icons Comprehensive College, Akure, Ondo State, scored 370 out of 400, setting a new record in the computer-based era of UTME which began in 2013.
Ayodeji’s subject breakdown is below:
· Mathematics: 98
· Physics: 98
· Chemistry: 94
· Use of English: 80
Speaking with Punch, Ayodeji remarked, “I didn’t set out to break any record. I just wanted to give my best.”
JAMB clarifies candidates can take exams anywhere in Nigeria
Earlier, TheRadar reported that JAMB affirmed that candidates sitting for the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) could write the exam in any location across Nigeria, regardless of where they registered.
The clarification followed a misleading report suggesting that candidates must take the UTME in the same state where they completed their registration.
