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The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) has announced that all Computer-Based Test (CBT) centres across Nigeria must now install Microsoft-certified cameras ahead of the 2026 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) registration exercise.
The new policy, disclosed in an official statement from JAMB’s headquarters in Abuja, is aimed at enhancing security, transparency, and the integrity of the UTME registration process. The board explained that the cameras will help verify applicants’ identities, prevent impersonation, and curb examination malpractice through facial recognition technology.
According to the statement, only Microsoft Teams-certified webcams will be accepted, as they have undergone rigorous testing and meet JAMB’s technical specifications for image clarity and data integration. The devices will be linked directly to JAMB’s central servers, enabling real-time monitoring during registration and examination activities.
“Every approved CBT centre must ensure the installation of Microsoft-certified cameras that can provide secure, high-resolution facial verification,” the board stated. “This measure aligns with our ongoing digital reforms to strengthen examination integrity and prevent any compromise of the registration process.”
JAMB also emphasised that the new cameras will be integrated with its Biometric Verification System (BVS) to ensure that each candidate’s identity is confirmed at multiple stages — from registration to examination and result processing.
Centre owners have been directed to comply with the new requirement by December 2025, or risk losing accreditation for the 2026 UTME cycle. Technical audits will be conducted to confirm compliance before the registration window opens in early 2026.
A JAMB spokesperson, Dr Fabian Benjamin, noted that the initiative is part of the board’s broader effort to modernise its operations and eliminate fraudulent activities.
“Technology remains our strongest ally in ensuring a fair, credible, and transparent examination process. With these upgrades, cases of impersonation and identity fraud will become virtually impossible,” he said.
Stakeholders in the education technology sector have lauded the move, describing it as a necessary step in strengthening Nigeria’s examination management systems. However, some CBT centre operators have expressed concern about the cost of upgrading their equipment, calling for financial support or phased implementation.
JAMB reaffirmed that it will continue to collaborate with technology partners, including Microsoft and local ICT firms, to ensure a smooth rollout of the new standard. The board also encouraged candidates and parents to verify the accreditation status of centres before registering for the 2026 UTME.
