Nigeria's JAMB to Implement Facial Recognition for University Entrance Exams

The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) in Nigeria is set to introduce Facial Biometric Verification (FBV) for candidates taking the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME). This move aims to bolster the integrity of the examination process by combating impersonation and addressing the technical issues often encountered with traditional fingerprint verification.

The new system will involve real-time authentication, cross-referencing candidates' live facial profiles with their National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) records during both registration and exam entry. This collaboration leverages existing national digital identity infrastructure to enhance security and streamline candidate access at Computer-Based Test (CBT) centres across the country.

Initially, facial scanning will run concurrently with the established 10-fingerprint biometric system. However, JAMB plans a gradual transition over the next two to three years, intending to completely replace One-Time Passwords (OTPs) and eventually phase out fingerprint scanning. This shift is expected to significantly reduce delays caused by biometric failures and improve the overall efficiency and trustworthiness of the UTME, making the examination process fully digitized.