The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) has released N397,030,900 in transport allowances to 1,909 officials tasked with overseeing the 2025 Mock Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME), set for April 10, 2025.
This disbursement, announced by JAMB’s Director of Finance, Mufutau Bello, marks the initial phase of payments, covering one-third of the total personnel involved in the nationwide exercise.
The announcement came during a strategic meeting in Abuja, where JAMB evaluated its preparedness for both the mock exam and the main UTME, underscoring the critical role these assessments play in Nigeria’s tertiary education system.
Financial Commitment Reflects Logistical Scale
Bello emphasized that the N397 million allocation is just the beginning, with additional tranches expected to support the remaining officials. “This mock exercise is the first step in fulfilling our core mandate,” he stated, highlighting JAMB’s commitment to excellence. “The nation depends on us to uphold the integrity of this process.
Any lapse could erode trust in our education system.” The substantial funding reflects not only the financial stakes but also the logistical complexity of coordinating a seamless examination across Nigeria, a point often misunderstood by the public when debates over local travel allowances arise.
Stakes High for JAMB’s Credibility
With the mock UTME serving as a dress rehearsal for the main examination, JAMB is under pressure to maintain its reputation for reliability and transparency. Bello noted that the stakes extend beyond logistics, encompassing the credibility of JAMB’s processes and the broader tertiary education framework.
“We’re dealing with significant financial resources and the future of countless students,” he said. The mock exam, scheduled just three days from now on April 10, 2025, is a critical test of JAMB’s operational readiness, setting the tone for the main UTME later in the year.
JAMB Staff Vow Seamless Execution
In response to the preparations, JAMB staff expressed unwavering dedication to ensuring both the mock and main exams proceed without hitches. Addressing public concerns, they clarified that criticisms about travel allowances often overlook the extensive planning and resources required for a nationwide examination.
“The scale of this operation is immense,” one official remarked during the meeting. “Our focus is on delivering a credible, efficient process for students and institutions alike.” As the 2025 UTME season approaches, JAMB remains steadfast in its mission to uphold educational standards across Nigeria.
