Over 1.5 Million Candidates Scored Below 200 In 2025 UTME – JAMB

  Over 1.5 million out of the 1,955,069 candidates who sat for the 2025 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination scored below 200 in the just-concluded exam. This was revealed in the statistical analysis of 2025 UTME result released by the Joint Admission and Matriculation Board (JAMB) on Monday. The statistics indicated that only 420,415 candidates scored above 200 in the 2025 edition of the UTME. The data showed that 75 per cent of the candidates scored below 200 in the exam, with less than 1% scoring above 300. In the statement accompanying the data, JAMB said, “40,247 underage candidates were permitted to demonstrate their exceptional abilities. However, only 467 of these candidates (1.16%) achieved scores that meet the threshold for exceptional ability as defined for the UTME, with their performance in the subsequent three stages still pending. “Of the total number registered, 97 candidates were involved in examination infractions, while 2,157 others are currently undergoing investigations for suspected malpractices. “Additionally, 71,701 candidates were absent. Those facing biometric challenges are also under investigation, and those who are cleared will be rescheduled for examination at designated centres. “Furthermore, few of the results, including those of blind candidates and others in the JEOG candidates group, are still being processed. “A press conference to announce the individual results of candidates and to facilitate result checking will be held later this week.”  

92 Visually-Impaired Sit For 2025 UTME In Kano Centre

  A total of 92 visually impaired candidates sat for the ongoing Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examinations conducted by the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board in Kano State. The JAMB Coordinator for Kano centre, Prof. Muhammad Yahuza-Bello, disclosed this while speaking with newsmen shortly after monitoring the exercise on Monday. NAN reports that the examination was conducted at the School of Continuing Education, Bayero University Kano, under the JAMB Equal Opportunity Group for special needs candidates. Yahuza-Bello, a former vice chancellor of BUK, said the 92 candidates were drawn from Kano, Jigawa, Katsina, Zamfara, and Kaduna states. “Out of the 92 candidates, two have Down syndrome, while two others have autism”, he said. NAN reports that the candidates, comprising males and females, received various gadgets such as typewriters, braille machines, slates, styluses, paper, among others. NAN also reports that trained personnel and invigilators were deployed to provide amanuensis services for candidates who required assistance to ease the examination process. He said that over 500 candidates with special needs, such as visual impairment, albinism, Down syndrome, autism, and other conditions, registered to write the examination in 11 centres across the country. “This initiative was introduced by the JAMB Registrar, Prof. Ishaq Oloyede, in 2017 to give equal educational opportunities to all, regardless of disability. At CBT centres, the examination is displayed on computer screens and candidates choose options, but many of our candidates cannot read from screens or use keyboards,” he said. “Our goal is to eliminate barriers to education, and the initiative builds upon JAMB’s ongoing reforms aimed at inclusivity, including the use of adaptive examination materials to meet diverse needs.” The coordinator said the examinations taken by special needs candidates are of the same quality and standard as those taken by regular candidates at CBT centres. “Since its inception in 2017, JEOG has recorded success, with a growing number of candidates with special needs gaining admission into various tertiary institutions across the country. “Only about 25 per cent of regular candidates gained admission into tertiary institutions, while over 33 per cent of special needs candidates secured admission,” he said. He commended the Vice-Chancellor of BUK, Prof. Sagir Adamu Abbas, the Department of Special Needs BUK, the School of Continuing Education, and other institutions for offering admission to these candidates. “As usual JAMB through JEOG has provided free accommodation, feeding and a token for transportation to all candidates during the examination period,” he added. The coordinator presented Khadija, a former Kano centre candidate who scored over 240 in the UTME and is now a final-year student at BUK, studying BSc Dietetics and Nutrition. Khadija lauded the gesture and offered words of advice and encouragement to the candidates. NAN

Over 26,000 Lagos Students Failed 2024 WASSCE – Commissioner

  The Lagos State Government has disclosed that 26,592 public school students failed the 2024 West African Senior School Certificate Examination, raising alarm across the state’s education sector. The Commissioner for Basic and Secondary Education, Jamiu Alli-Balogun, stated this during a ministerial press briefing in Alausa, Ikeja, on Thursday. He said, “45.7 per cent of the 58,188 students from public schools who sat for the exams did not pass.”. This failure rate comes despite the state government’s significant financial backing of N1.577bn paid on behalf of the students to cover WAEC fees. “Suffice to say that the sum of N1,577,794,000 was paid by the state government as examination fees for 58,188 students who were captured for the year 2024 WASSCE,” Alli-Balogun announced. In a bid to tighten accountability and avoid wastage, the commissioner disclosed that biometric and image registration was carried out to accurately determine eligible students for government sponsorship for the 2025 WASSCE. “The exercise successfully captured and registered 56,134 students as bona fide beneficiaries of the Lagos state government’s sponsorship for the examination,” he added. The government, however, rolled out a bold educational intervention – the Eko Learners’ Support Programme for WASSCE and NECO candidates – aimed at reversing the tide of academic failure in the state’s public schools. Launched on January 14, 2025, the initiative is part of a broader commitment by the Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education to equip Lagos students with tools for success. “This forward-thinking initiative was designed to support and empower young scholars in attestation of the ministry’s commitment to advancing interest and management of the educational system in Lagos State,” Alli-Balogun stated. He said with a vision to broadcast 320 lessons across 10 key subjects, including English, Mathematics, Physics, Chemistry, Biology, Economics, Government, History, Literature-in-English, and Yoruba, the programme aims to bring world-class tutoring directly into students’ homes. The commissioner said each 30-minute episode would air on Lagos Television and be archived across major platforms like YouTube, Facebook, Instagram, and X (formerly Twitter), creating a digital learning library accessible to every student. “It is a supportive eco-system that fosters academic achievement, creativity, critical thinking… every student deserves the opportunity to attain their full potential, regardless of their background or socio-economic status,” the commissioner stated. Alli-Balogun urged students, especially those in boarding schools, to seize the opportunity. “It is on this note that I urge and encourage students, more importantly, students in our boarding schools, to take full advantage of this initiative, as education is a lifelong journey,” he said.

Delta Issues 21-day Ultimatum To Unapproved Schools

  The Delta State Government has vowed to shut down all unapproved nursery and primary schools across the state. The measure is being taken “to sanitise the private sector participation in the primary education sector in the state.” This was contained in a government special announcement signed by the Director of Public Communication/Functioning Permanent Secretary in the State Ministry of Information, Theresa Adiabua Oliko. Copies were made available to journalists in Warri on Thursday. The government, however, advised owners of all unapproved primary schools across the state to “upgrade” within the 21-day ultimatum or risk being shut down. The public announcement partly reads, “It is hereby announced for the information of the public, particularly owners of private nursery and primary schools in Delta State, that the government, pursuance to its responsibility to sanitise the private sector participation in the primary education sector in the state, that all unapproved primary schools in the state are hereby given a 21-day ultimatum to upgrade their infrastructure and formalise their status with the ministry of primary education with immediate effect. “Failure to comply with this directive will attract severe sanctions, including outright closure of all such schools. “The 21-day ultimatum has become imperative as a result of the proliferation of unapproved private schools whose poor infrastructural facilities, unqualified teachers and unhealthy operational environment have become worrisome to the state government.” Punch

Part-time HND Ineligible For NYSC Mobilisation, Minister Clarifies

  The Minister of Education, Dr. Maruf Alausa, on Thursday, announced the resolution of the long-standing issue regarding the mobilisation of Higher National Diploma graduates for the National Youth Service Corps. A statement by the ministry said the decision followed a dialogue with the Director-General of NYSC. Similarly, the minister confirmed that only full-time HND graduates are eligible and can now proceed with their mobilisation. “This development marks a significant breakthrough for full-time HND graduates who were previously excluded from the NYSC program. It underscores the Federal Ministry of Education’s commitment to equity, fairness, and inclusivity in the nation’s education system. However, those who did HND part-time are not eligible for mobilization at all. “To facilitate a seamless mobilisation process, the National Board for Technical Education has been directed to expedite the collation of data for eligible HND graduates. In line with this, a circular has been sent to all Rectors of Polytechnics, instructing them to upload the necessary graduate data onto the newly created HND admission portal.” Alausa emphasised that NYSC mobilisation is strictly for those who completed a full-time HND program, stressing that only full-time HND graduates will be mobilised, while those who did HND part-time remain ineligible. He further disclosed that the newly created portal will ensure proper documentation of full-time HND graduates and serve as the official database for NYSC mobilisation, addressing past challenges related to admission records. The minister urged all eligible full-time HND graduates to take full advantage of this opportunity and proceed with their mobilisation without delay. He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to fostering equal opportunities for all qualified Nigerian graduates and ensuring their contributions to national development through the NYSC scheme.  

Oyo Govt Flags-Off Health Insurance Scheme For Primary School Pupils

The Oyo State government has officially flagged off the enrollment of 10,000 basic school pupils into the state’s healthcare insurance scheme. The children, enrolled from 90 schools across 18 LGAs were presented their Insurance scheme ID cards on Thursday at the Ibadan Civic center, Idi-ape, Ibadan, by the Deputy Governor, Barr. Bayo Lawal. The Deputy Governor said the enrolment was part of the Oyo state government’s effort towards ensuring its pupils are of sound minds. He said, “This scheme will ensure that our children have sound minds, while they learn in conducive environments” He applauded the partnership and collaboration between the Oyo State Health Insurance Agency, OYSHIA and the Oyo state Universal Basic Education Board, OYOSUBEB, in providing healthcare opportunities to public school children in the state. “This event is a collective effort in securing a brighter future of Oyo State pupils,” he said. The Deputy Governor also charged OYSHIA to double its efforts in extending the scheme to every school in the State, urging parents and guardians to key into the scheme. In her goodwill message, the Chief of UNICEF Lagos Field Office, Ms. Celine Lafoucriere, noted that the launch of the Oyo State Public Primary School Pupils Health Insurance Scheme, will give access to affordable, quality healthcare; a fundamental right for every child. “This initiative reinforces our collective commitment to universal health coverage, ensuring that no child faces financial obstacles to accessing healthcare”, she said. “Universal health coverage is more than a healthcare goal—it’s a social and economic necessity. When children have access to healthcare, they can focus on education, grow into productive adults, break the cycle of poverty, and contribute to the success of Oyo State and Nigeria.” “This scheme exemplifies this by focusing on public primary school children, especially in hard-to-reach areas. With 90 schools already enrolled across 18 LGAs, our goal is to ensure all 33 LGAs in Oyo state are covered, leaving no child behind.” “UNICEF remains steadfast in supporting the government and communities toward universal health coverage.” The Commissioner for Health, Dr. Oluwaserimi Ajetunmobi applauded OYSHIA and OYOSUBEB for their commitment towards healthy basic school pupils. She assured the agencies of her Ministry’s unparalleled commitment to the scheme. Also speaking, the Executive Chairman, OYOSUBEB, Dr. Nureni Aderemi Adeniran applauded OYSHIA, pledging the Board’s commitment to the smooth take-off and sustainability of the scheme. Adeniran said, “At OYOSUBEB, we operate on the principle of taking care of the pupils under our care as though they are ours”. Dr. Adeniran added that the scheme would enable the beneficiaries to receive quality healthcare without paying exorbitantly to access it. Earlier, the Executive Secretary, OYSHIA, Dr. Olusola Akande said the new door being opened today, is focusing on providing access to healthcare for 10,000 public primary school pupils in the first instance. Dr. Akande noted that the agency will also commence an enrollment of additional 5,500 pupils into the scheme from next week. The Executive Secretary applauded UNICEF, through whose support the Agency has been able to improve on its awareness campaign and increased the communities under Community Based Health Insurance scheme by 100 percent. He equally stressed the unparalleled commitment of SUBEB chairman to the scheme. “His open door policy and unrestricted access ensured we were able to keep to our time line”, he said. The event was attended by relevant stakeholders in the health and education sectors, including the pupils.

Minister Of Education Advocates 12-Year Basic Education In Nigeria 

  The Minister of Education, Dr. Tunji Alausa has proposed a shift to a 12-year basic education model in Nigeria. Alausa made the proposal on Thursday, in Abuja, at the 2025 Extraordinary National Council of Education meeting, which is the highest education policy-making body in Nigeria. Nigeria currently operates the 9-3-4 system, which consists of nine years of basic education, three years of senior secondary education, and four years of tertiary education. However, Alausa pointed out that some of the issues influencing the convening of the extraordinary National Council of Education meeting include the introduction of a 12-year basic education system in Nigeria’s education framework and the approval of a national policy on bullying, among others. “It is important to acknowledge that while the 9-3-4 system of education has its merits, it also has drawbacks, such as the need for students to work to further their education,” Alausa explained. “It is therefore prudent to transition from the 9-3-4 to the 12-4 system of education. By doing so, Nigeria will align with global standards in preparing students for better tertiary education.” “A 12-year basic education model will ensure a continuous, uninterrupted curriculum, promoting better standardisation and fostering quality assurance in the education system,” Alausa said. He argued that a 12-year model will also guarantee that students receive a more comprehensive and continuous learning experience. This, he said, would improve educational outcomes and contribute to a more educated populace that drives Nigeria’s economic development. He also mentioned the planned conversion of federal science and technical colleges into federal technical colleges. The minister emphasised that technical education, which imparts practical and applied skills alongside basic scientific knowledge, is crucial for addressing the current skills gap in the labour market. “The provision of technical education allows a nation’s human and natural resources to be harnessed more effectively. Therefore, technical education contributes significantly to national development, driving cultural and industrial progress,” Alausa noted. He also mentioned that the council was looking at the 16-year policy on admission into tertiary institutions, to be incorporated into the national policy on education. “I am sure many of you have heard about the challenges we face as a nation with talented, bright students being disenfranchised from pursuing tertiary education. In any society, it is crucial to standardise the education of highly functional and exceptionally gifted students. “We are now preventing these students, after finishing secondary education at the age of 16, from attending university until they are 18. This delays their development and harms their futures. These students are capable and brave. If we leave them idle, we risk exacerbating mental health issues,” he said.

(Photos) UI Student,Emerges Winner At 8th Edition Of Super Bowl Debate Competition

Adeleke Maria    Chineke Ugochukwu, a student of the University of Ibadan, emerged victorious at the Eighth Edition of the Super Bowl Debate Competition, held at the Alumni Hall, University of Ibadan. The event, themed “This is Nigeria,” featured representatives from 13 institutions across Oyo State, showcasing their oratory and critical thinking skills. Participating institutions included Abiola Ajimobi Technical University, Federal School of Survey Oyo, Oyo State College of Agriculture and Technology Igboora, and Dominican University, among others. The competition unfolded in three stages: a thematic speech on “This is Nigeria,” an impromptu pix-prompt session, and a final round addressing the topic “Heroes of Today.” Chineke Ugochukwu clinched first place with a score of 68.1%, followed by Jacintha Nwachukwu from Dominican University with 66.9% and Kolade Daniella from Abiola Ajimobi Technical University with 63.2%. In his welcome address, Hon. Victor Olojede, Senior Special Assistant to the Governor of Oyo State on Students’ Affairs, emphasized the importance of empowering young leaders. “Super Bowl is about creating an environment where ideas are exchanged, confidence is built, and future leaders are nurtured,” he said. Dr. Bisi Olawuyi, the competition’s convener and Head of the Department of Communication and Language Arts, University of Ibadan, shared the event’s mission: “This platform isn’t just about highlighting Nigeria’s problems but finding solutions through the perspectives of young people.” He added “My motivation, is trying to build leadership skills,oratorical skills, amongst others. I also believe that it is high time we began to engage young people en sundry national issues. Many of these young people has so many ideas that can transform nigeria and all we need to do is to give them the opportunity by giving them the platform to speak.” Keynote speaker and investigative journalist Fisayo Soyombo, a former Super Bowl contestant, addressed systemic corruption in Nigeria, urging a return to values like hard work and dignity of labor. “The solution to every Nigerian problem lies in the agency created to solve it,” Soyombo asserted. The winners were rewarded with cash prizes and trophies, with Ugochukwu receiving ₦200,000, Nwachukwu ₦150,000, and Daniella ₦100,000. The competition, which resumed after a four-year hiatus, received renewed support from the Oyo State government, with plans for further collaboration in the future. The Super Bowl Debate Competition continues to serve as a platform for fostering leadership, public speaking, and problem-solving skills among Nigerian youths.

86 Students Earn First Class Honours As Ajayi Crowther University Graduates 2,679 At 16th Convocation

Adeleke Maria    Ajayi Crowther University (ACU), Oyo, will confer degrees on 2,679 graduates during its 16th Convocation Ceremony, including 86 students who achieved First Class Honours. This was disclosed by the Vice Chancellor, Professor Timothy Abiodun Adebayo, during a press conference held ahead of the week-long convocation events. He highlighted the breakdown of degrees to be awarded: Undergraduate Degrees: 86 First Class Honours 1,230 Second Class Honours (Upper Division) 560 Second Class Honours (Lower Division) 61 Third Class Degrees Postgraduate Degrees: 82 Postgraduate Diplomas 660 Master’s Degrees 77 Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) Degrees “This year’s convocation marks a rise in postgraduate graduands, with a total of 742 awards, compared to last year’s 594,” Professor Adebayo noted. Honorary Degrees and Academic Innovations The university will also honor Reverend Bola Adams and Mr. Modupe Alakija, OON, with Honorary Doctorate Degrees for their significant societal contributions. Professor Adebayo praised the university’s innovative academic framework, which ensures students graduate with three certifications: a Bachelor’s degree, a Mind Education certificate, and an Entrepreneurship Training certificate. This “triple certification system” aims to enhance employability and entrepreneurial skills, making ACU graduates globally competitive. “Our groundbreaking policy ensures students receive comprehensive training, enabling them to function practically and professionally in the real world,” he stated. Line-Up of Events Monday, November 25, 2024 Convocation Exhibition at Theophilus Danjuma Library by 12:00 PM. Alumni Lecture and Reunion at the Modupe and Folorunso Alakija Law Auditorium by 1:00 PM. Tuesday, November 26, 2024 Convocation Lecture by Prof. Tola Badejo, FESN, KJW, at the Modupe and Folorunso Alakija Law Auditorium by 11:00 AM. Convocation Play at Olajire Olaniran Auditorium by 5:00 PM. Wednesday, November 27, 2024 Commissioning of Projects on the main campus by 9:00 AM. Award of Bachelor’s and Master’s Degrees at Crowther Hall by 11:00 AM. Thursday, November 28, 2024:Grand Finale Award of Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) Degrees and Honorary Doctorate Degrees at the Modupe and Folorunso Alakija Law Auditorium by 11:00 AM. Focus on Entrepreneurship and Vocational Skills Highlighting the university’s entrepreneurial strides, Professor Adebayo noted that ACU provides training in skills such as electrical works, auto mechanics, fashion design, solar energy installation, and catering. The Fashion Design Unit now produces scrubs for medical students, bridging practical training with industry needs. “Our vision is to produce graduates who are not only skilled professionals but also employers of labor,” he added. Call for Infrastructure Development Professor Adebayo concluded by emphasizing the urgent need for additional funding to improve infrastructure across the university’s campuses. Proposed developments include new faculty buildings for Communication and Media Studies, Engineering, Environmental Studies, and Health Sciences, alongside endowing professorial chairs to strengthen academic leadership. The 16th Convocation underscores Ajayi Crowther University’s commitment to academic excellence, innovation, and societal impact. Prof. Adebayo concluded by congratulating the graduating students, urging them to remain ambassadors of excellence, and expressing gratitude to parents, sponsors, faculty, and staff for their support and dedication.

Ipetumodu City Library, Symbol Of Educational Revival, Community Effort -IDF(Photos)

By Adeleke Maria   The Ipetumodu Development Forum(IDF) has described the newly commissioned Ipetumodu City Library as a symbol of education of revival and community efforts. The newly commissioned Ipetumodu City Library project aimed at revitalizing educational access and fostering knowledge among students in the area. In his welcome address presented on behalf of the IDF, Barrister Banji Akinloye commended the vision and commitment behind the library project. He highlighted that the project was a collaborative effort initiated by Chief Femi Adesina, the Oluomo of Ipetumodu, with significant financial support from the Chinese Embassy in Nigeria and contributions from IDF. While reflecting on the history of education in Ipetumodu, Barr. Akinloye noted, “This library marks a return to the tradition of academic excellence we once cherished. It is a beacon of hope for our youth and a testament to what our community can achieve when united.” The library, located within the ongoing Ipetumodu City House project funded by IDF, represents a significant step forward for the town’s educational development. The Chairman of the Library Project Committee, Deacon Awoleke Tony, acknowledged the tireless work of the IDF team and called for further support from individuals and organizations to ensure the completion and sustainability of the project. “This library is a gift to our future generations, and we must ensure it remains a vital resource for years to come,” he stated. Engr. Kazeem Afolabi, IDF’s Social Secretary, emphasized the broader vision behind the library: “Education is a light that can guide individuals through life’s challenges. With this project, we aim to eradicate ignorance and instill a culture of learning in our youth.” Chief Engr. Iyiola Ayoola,a member of the library project committee,urged community members to make education the cornerstone of progress in Ipetumodu, saying, “We envision a town where knowledge thrives, where education drives positive change, and where youths are steered away from social vices.” SS2 student Oyebamiji Akin expressed his excitement, stating, “This library will provide countless students with the chance to enhance their knowledge and succeed academically.” The commissioning ceremony concluded with a call for continued collaboration and support to complete the project and maintain the facility for future generations. The Ipetumodu City Library now stands as a testament to collective sacrifice, community spirit, and a commitment to a brighter future. The event had in attendance, distinguished guests including His Royal Majesty, Oba (Prof.) Joseph Olugbenga Oloyede (Latimogun 1), the Apetumodu of Ipetumodu, represented by Bayo Akinyemi; Her Royal Highness Olori Tejumade Oloyede; and Rt. Hon. Akinyode Abidemi Oyewusi, Deputy Speaker of the Osun State House of Assembly, among other notable leaders. Others includes, S.A (Cabinet) to the Governor on Rural and Community Development – Hon. Moji Omisore, Chief Abiodun Ogundiran, Representative of Baales, Ipetumodu CAN Chairman, Pastor Ayobami Lawrence,Chief Imam of Ipetumodu, Alhaji Arayemi Olanrewaju, Elder Johnson Akinniyi,Chairman, Gbobaniyi, Mr. John Amusan Chairman, Ipetumodu Action Council, Mr Akinyemi Ademola, Ipetumodu Action Council Secretary, Youth Leader Mr. Babalola Taiwo, Head of Local Government Administration, I.P.U National Executives, I.D.F Executives, Late Surv. Adefioye Taiwo’s family,Students Body Representatives: National Association.