The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) has issued an official notice outlining the procedures and important tips for candidates registering for the 2026 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME). 

In an announcement via its official X handle, the Board outlined the basic steps prospective candidates must take to ensure a seamless registration process.

Step 1: Profile Code Generation

Candidates must first ensure that their personal details including their National Identification Number (NIN), email address, and O'Level/A-Level results are accurate and consistent across all platforms.

• How to Generate the profile code: Send your 11-digit NIN to 55019 or 66019 in the format:
  NIN 00000011111 (ensure there is a space between "NIN" and the number).
• Important Note: Once a profile code is generated, it cannot be changed, and your biodata will be automatically retrieved from the NIMC database.

Step 2: E-PIN Purchase and Registration

After generating a profile code, candidates should proceed to the nearest JAMB Office or any approved CBT Centre to commence registration.

• E-PINs Purchase: E-PINs must be purchased only from authorised channels, including banks, approved online platforms, and accredited vendors at registration centres.
• Registration: Candidates must ensure they are given the correct registration template and should meticulously cross-check all details for accuracy before final submission.

Important Tips

• NIMC Corrections: Any necessary corrections (e.g., Name, Date of Birth, Gender, State of Origin) must be made with NIMC early and reflected on their portal before starting JAMB registration.
• Unique Identifiers: Phone numbers and email addresses are unique to each candidate. They cannot be shared or changed and must remain functional throughout the process.
• Biometric Issues: If biometric capture fails, candidates should visit a JAMB office immediately. Do not allow any CBT centre to force-register you.
• Dual Screens: Ensure a dual screen is used during registration so you can confirm your passport photograph and biometrics are captured correctly in real-time.

Common Challenges and Solutions

• "Error 550/66019" / Wrong Parameter:
  Indicates an incorrect format. Ensure you use the correct command: NIN [space] YourNIN to 55019 or 66019.

• "Number Already Registered":
  Means the phone number has already been used to generate a profile code. Candidates must retrieve and use that specific SIM card to receive the code.

• "Unable to Verify NIN":
  Usually a temporary network or server issue. Candidates are advised to wait and retry later.

• "Record Not Found":
  Implies the NIN is not in the NIMC database. Candidates should visit the nearest NIMC office for validation.