The Independent National Electoral Commission has offered to support the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board with biometric verification technology as both institutions explore stronger identity checks. The proposal emerged during a meeting between the leadership of the two agencies.
Technology assessment comes first
INEC Chairman Professor Joash Amupitan directed the commission’s information and communications technology directorate to review JAMB’s request through a proof-of-concept assessment.
The assessment is expected to determine whether available biometric equipment is suitable for possible deployment in examination verification. The proposal is therefore not yet a final rollout, but a step toward testing capacity, compatibility and operational requirements.
Why biometric checks matter
JAMB said it wants to strengthen the integrity of its examination processes. Reliable biometric verification can help confirm candidates’ identities, reduce impersonation risks and give administrators better tools for managing large examination exercises.
Collaboration between public agencies
The meeting was also presented as an example of agencies sharing expertise for national development. INEC’s experience with biometric systems could offer useful lessons, while JAMB would need a system that works across its own centres, schedules and candidate volumes.
Implementation would still require careful attention to privacy, data security, equipment maintenance and access for candidates who encounter technical difficulties.
Next steps for the proposal
The proof-of-concept review should clarify what equipment is available, how it could integrate with JAMB’s processes and what safeguards would be required. A transparent evaluation will be important before any broader adoption.
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Conclusion
The proposal could improve examination security if it is technically sound, carefully implemented and supported by strong privacy protections. The immediate focus is on testing whether the technology can meet JAMB’s practical needs.
