The 2025 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME), organised by the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB), has successfully concluded nationwide — with 101 physically challenged candidates participating in Lagos State alone.
JAMB, under the leadership of its Registrar, Prof. Ish’aq Oloyede, reaffirmed its commitment to inclusivity through the JAMB Equal Opportunity Group (JEOG), a specialised initiative designed to ensure a seamless and supportive examination experience for candidates living with disabilities.
Prioritising Accessibility and Inclusivity for UTME Candidates
JEOG, established in 2017, was conceived to address the specific needs of visually impaired, hearing-impaired, and physically challenged candidates, offering them equal opportunities during the crucial university entrance examination. The project, chaired by Distinguished Emeritus Professor Peter Okebukola, operates 11 special centres nationwide, providing tailored support for People Living With Disabilities (PLWDs).
In Lagos, the exams took place over two days at the Distance Learning Institute, University of Lagos (UNILAG), coordinated by Prof. Lanre Fagbohun, a Senior Advocate of Nigeria and former Vice Chancellor of Lagos State University (LASU). Prof. Fagbohun oversees both Lagos and Ogun State candidates.
Speaking to journalists, Prof. Fagbohun explained the deliberate process behind JEOG’s operations. “After JAMB announces the UTME date, JEOG schedules a separate period to accommodate special candidates. We meticulously verify their locations and individual needs, providing tailored resources such as Braille, styluses, and personal exam guides,” he said.
Full Welfare Support for Candidates
Candidates under JEOG’s care received comprehensive support, including free accommodation, transportation, feeding, and health services. An ambulance was stationed at the centre to handle any emergencies, while candidates with limited arm movement were paired with trained guides to assist with writing answers as questions were read aloud.
Candidates Laud JAMB’s Efforts
Many candidates expressed gratitude for the initiative, urging its continuation and wider adoption by other examination bodies.
One candidate, Peace Chidinma, remarked, “It’s not been easy, but the support with accommodation, feeding, and accessibility allowed us to focus entirely on the exams.”
Another visually impaired candidate, Chinaka Victory, added, “The measures were outstanding. I hope the government establishes schools for the blind in every state, equipped with the kind of educational aids we had during this examination.”
A Model of Inclusivity for Nigeria’s Education Sector
JAMB’s Equal Opportunity Group continues to set a national standard for inclusive education, demonstrating that thoughtful planning and compassionate policy can create opportunities for all candidates, regardless of physical challenges.
As the 2025 UTME concludes, stakeholders are hopeful this model will inspire other examination and educational institutions to prioritise accessibility and inclusivity in their operation.
