NOA Applauds JAMB’s Transparency in UTME Failure Response, Urges Broader Institutional Reform

The National Orientation Agency (NOA) has commended the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) for its transparent and accountable handling of the technical issues that marred the 2025 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME).

Speaking through a statement released on Thursday, NOA Director General Mallam Lanre Issa-Onilu described JAMB’s response, particularly its open admission of failure, as a rare and admirable example of public sector leadership. The statement was signed by Paul Odenyi, NOA’s Deputy Director, Media & Communications.

“JAMB’s candid recognition of its shortcomings is a bold demonstration of institutional integrity,” Onilu said. 

According to Onilu, public trust grows when institutions own their mistakes and take corrective action. He urged other public agencies in Nigeria to adopt JAMB’s model of transparency, stating that it fosters accountability, public confidence, and governance credibility.

“While recognition of mistakes is the first step, redemption and restitution are necessary next steps,” he added.

While praising JAMB Registrar Professor Is-haq Oloyede for his honesty and courage, the NOA chief emphasized the need for further remediation.

He welcomed JAMB’s offer of a make-up test for affected candidates but urged the Board to consider additional measures, such as psychosocial support or compensation for the anxiety and stress experienced by students and parents.

“JAMB must consider appropriate compensation to mitigate the trauma suffered by thousands of candidates and their families,” Onilu said.

Onilu used the moment to reinforce NOA’s broader mission of promoting ethical leadership and institutional responsibility through the National Values Charter.

“Every citizen, whether in public service or private life, has a duty to uphold the core values of integrity, accountability, and transparency,” he stated.

He emphasized that these values are not optional but are the foundation of a just and equitable society.

NOA reaffirmed its commitment to embedding these values at all levels of society to foster more moral, inclusive, and accountable governance in Nigeria