The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) has addressed concerns over an alleged directive asking candidates to remove their hijabs during registration, following a viral video involving a Muslim candidate at Afe Babalola University.
In the video shared online, a man claimed his sister was instructed to take off her hijab before her biometric photograph could be captured and was also asked to sign an undertaking for wearing it.
Responding via its verified social media handle on Saturday, JAMB stated that it has never directed candidates to remove their hijabs for registration, either now or in the past.
The Board explained that what was required at the university was a standard biometric guideline which mandates that both ears must be visible during photo capture to ensure accurate facial recognition. It noted that this process is a global practice used in international passport and visa applications and does not require the removal of the hijab.
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According to JAMB, the candidate’s religious beliefs were respected, and she was only asked to document her decision not to comply with the ear visibility guideline for proper record-keeping. She was eventually registered successfully.
JAMB urged the public to verify information before spreading claims, reaffirming its commitment to fairness and respect for all candidates regardless of religion or background.
Registration for the 2026 UTME commenced on January 26 and will end on February 28, 2026. E-PIN sales run until February 26, while Direct Entry registration begins March 2 and closes April 25, 2026.
