At least 501 visually impaired candidates across Nigeria sat for the 2025 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) on Tuesday at 11 specialised centres nationwide, in what has been hailed as a major stride for inclusive education in the country.

While monitoring the exercise at the Centre for the Blind, National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN), Abuja, the Minister of State for Education, Prof. Suwaiba Ahmad Said, commended the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) for its unwavering commitment to making education accessible for all.

She lauded JAMB’s inclusivity drive, noting that the Board has shattered long-standing barriers in Nigeria’s educational landscape by fully supporting candidates with disabilities—not just in policy, but in practical terms.

“These efforts go far beyond accessibility. JAMB covers transportation, accommodation, and provides personal aides. Without these interventions, many would never have had the chance to write this exam,” the Minister said.

The exercise was coordinated by the JAMB Equal Opportunity Group (JEOG), chaired by Emeritus Professor Peter Okebukola, who has played a pivotal role in advancing support for special needs candidates.

Prof. Said further revealed that JAMB’s inclusive model is setting the standard for other examination bodies like NECO and WAEC, which are expected to align with these best practices soon.

Also speaking at the event, JAMB Registrar, Prof. Ishaq Oloyede, reiterated the Board’s belief in equity and dignity for all candidates.

“We know those who are differently abled can perform wonders,” he said. “Our role is to ensure they feel seen, heard, and valued by their nation.”

According to Oloyede, JAMB currently operates 11 disability-specialised centres across states including Lagos, Edo, Oyo, Kaduna, and the FCT. These centres are strategically located to reduce travel stress and bring examination access closer to the candidates’ communities.

He also disclosed that candidates who attain at least five credits in their WASSCE or equivalent are refunded their registration fees upon arrival—what he described as "a moral obligation, not charity."

Support for other categories of special needs candidates, including the deaf, is also mainstreamed at regular examination centres. Instructions are provided in writing, badges and visual prompts are used for clarity, and the cost—over ₦200,000 per candidate—is fully borne by JAMB.

The Registrar emphasized that such efforts are guided by a comprehensive inclusive policy developed with the input of stakeholders like Prof. Okebukola, and further extended to tertiary institutions to ensure sustained support beyond admission.

Thanks to this policy, over 70% of last year’s physically challenged UTME candidates gained admission into universities, polytechnics, and colleges of education.

Prof. Sunday Ododo, the Centre Coordinator at NOUN, also praised JAMB’s consistency and vision.

“This is not just an exam. It’s a statement of national dignity. We are honoured to be a part of it,” he said.