The Registrar of the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB), Prof. Segun Aina, has shed light on the motivation behind introducing a Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) testing location in Canada.
As South South Echoes previously reported, the exam body intends to launch a center in Ottawa to allow candidates residing across North America to write the entrance test without flying back to Nigeria.
Addressing inquiries via a series of updates on X on Tuesday regarding the proposed center—slated to begin operation for the 2027 UTME session—Aina emphasized that the move focuses strictly on broadening educational reach rather than generating profit.
Highlighting JAMB’s existing footprint across roughly ten international territories, Aina noted that candidate volume is not the primary determinant for setting up external centers, pointing out similar arrangements made within correctional facilities.
He observed that while several African nations already host examination venues, North America has lacked coverage until now. The initiative aims to serve various groups, including returning diaspora families and dependents of diplomatic or military personnel stationed overseas.
Addressing financial and infrastructure concerns, the registrar confirmed that JAMB has spent no funds on the project so far, noting that preliminary discussions were initiated while attending a conference in Canada. Furthermore, the board will avoid heavy operational overhead by partnering with the Nigerian High Commission in Ottawa to host temporary test spaces within embassy grounds using local staff support.
Rebutting doubts regarding local demand, Aina stated that previous registration figures could not reflect North American interest due to the prior absence of any test facility in the region. Supporting this position, JAMB spokesperson Fabian Benjamin revealed that over 100 potential candidates in Canada have already expressed interest in writing the exam, reiterating the agency’s goal of facilitating global access to higher education in Nigeria.
You Might Also Like
