AI Fraud Network Targets UTME As JAMB Sanctions Officials, Candidates
AI Tools Weaponised Against UTME Process
NIGERIA’S university entrance examination system is facing a new technological threat as the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) uncovers AI-driven fraud schemes targeting candidates for the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination.
Registrar Is-haq Oloyede said criminal syndicates have been exploiting artificial intelligence to impersonate JAMB officials, offering fake services and manipulating vulnerable candidates and parents seeking admission advantages.
The scheme, he revealed, is far-reaching and deliberate.
Nationwide Operation
Investigations show that over 100 candidates were linked to the fraudulent network, with 83 confirmed payments made to syndicates operating across 25 states.
Three school proprietors are currently in custody for facilitating malpractice, while the board has recommended cancellation of affected UTME registrations.
The registrar made it clear that candidates and parents who participated cannot claim victimhood.
“They are willing collaborators,” he said firmly.
Internal Compromise Exposed
The probe also uncovered internal sabotage. Three senior JAMB officials have been recommended for dismissal over their alleged roles in compromising the examination system.
Furthermore, two other officials and a staff member of Ahmadu Bello University are facing criminal prosecution.
The board described the internal crackdown as necessary to restore public trust.
Underage Registrations Raise Alarm
A significant concern emerging from the investigation is the high number of underage candidates. About 38,000 underage applicants have registered for the 2026 UTME, according to JAMB.
Many of those implicated in the AI scam fall into this category, with the registrar blaming parents for pushing children beyond their academic preparedness.
“Paying for fraud does not secure a child’s future. It teaches deception,” Mr. Oloyede warned.
Zero Tolerance Policy
Rejecting calls for leniency, the registrar stated that JAMB would not negotiate with suspects — even those who allegedly fled the country.
He emphasised that participation in WhatsApp or other online groups offering fraudulent services will attract sanctions.
“Being a member of such groups is no longer excusable,” he declared.
Several CBT centres have already been blacklisted, reinforcing the board’s zero-tolerance approach.
Security and Technology Reinforced
To combat the evolving threat, JAMB is working closely with the Office of the National Security Adviser, Directorate of State Services, Nigeria Police Force and Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps.
The registrar said the board has upgraded its technical infrastructure to detect prohibited devices and biometric manipulation.
Since adopting Computer-Based Testing in 2013, JAMB has intensified biometric verification to curb impersonation. In 2025, it withheld more than 39,800 results over suspected irregularities, including fingerprint manipulation and identity fraud.
Defending Meritocracy
The latest crackdown underscores the board’s long-running struggle to defend the integrity of Nigeria’s tertiary admissions system.
While acknowledging the sophistication of modern fraud, Mr. Oloyede insisted the board remains technologically and operationally prepared.
“If we did not have the capacity, we would not stay ahead of them,” he said.
For JAMB, the message is clear: merit, not manipulation, will determine access to higher education.
