The House of Representatives has called on the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) to establish Computer-Based Test (CBT) centres in all Local Government Areas (LGAs) across the country. This directive follows increasing concerns over the challenges faced by candidates during the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME), particularly the long distances many must travel to access the nearest accredited centres.
The resolution was passed during plenary after a motion raised by a member who expressed worry about the hardship and logistical burdens candidates face, especially in rural areas where access to CBT centres is limited or non-existent. Lawmakers cited cases of students traveling several hours, often across state lines, to take their exams—sometimes under unsafe or financially strenuous conditions.
They argued that the lack of proximity to testing centres contributes to late arrivals, missed examinations, and heightened anxiety among candidates, ultimately affecting performance. The House maintained that decentralizing JAMB’s CBT infrastructure would not only ease logistical pressure but also promote inclusivity and fairness in the admission process.
The lawmakers urged JAMB to collaborate with state governments and local authorities to identify viable locations and leverage existing infrastructure—such as ICT centres in secondary schools or community buildings—to fast-track the establishment of CBT centres in underserved areas.
In response, JAMB is expected to present a report on the feasibility of the directive, as well as a roadmap for implementation. If adopted, the move could significantly improve access to tertiary education, particularly for students in hard-to-reach and rural communities.
