The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) has responded to public reactions following allegations that a candidate was asked to remove her hijab during registration at an accredited centre.

The controversy began after a young man shared his experience online, claiming that his sister was instructed to take off her hijab before her biometric photograph could be captured. He further alleged that she was required to sign an undertaking because she wore the religious covering, raising concerns about possible discrimination against Muslim candidates.

Board Denies Any Ban on Hijab

In an official clarification, JAMB stated categorically that it has never introduced any rule prohibiting the use of hijab during registration exercises.

According to the Board, the incident in question stemmed from a misunderstanding of standard biometric procedures. JAMB explained that its registration guidelines require candidates’ ears to be visible during facial capture, a technical requirement commonly applied in international passport and visa documentation processes.

The Board stressed that this rule is not targeted at any religion but is intended solely to support accurate facial recognition and identity verification.

Visibility Requirement Explained

JAMB clarified that candidates are not required to remove their hijabs entirely. Rather, the instruction is limited to ensuring that both ears are visible for proper biometric imaging.

In the reported case, the candidate reportedly expressed discomfort with exposing her ears for religious reasons. The Board noted that her position was respected. However, she was asked to provide a written statement confirming that she chose not to comply with the ear-visibility guideline, in order to properly document the circumstances and avoid future misinterpretation.

The Board added that the registration process was ultimately completed successfully, although it took additional time.

Comparison With International Standards

JAMB maintained that the ear-visibility requirement aligns with global identification practices used in passport offices and embassies worldwide. Clear facial features, including ear positioning, are often required to enhance the reliability of biometric systems.

At the same time, the Board reiterated that it remains sensitive to religious considerations and seeks to handle such matters with fairness and understanding.

Appeal for Responsible Engagement

In its concluding remarks, JAMB called on the public to verify information before circulating claims that may inflame tensions. The Board reaffirmed its commitment to treating all candidates equally, regardless of faith or background.

It encouraged cooperation from candidates where minor technical adjustments are needed for identification purposes, while assuring Nigerians that it does not discriminate against any religious group.

Moving Forward

The episode underscores the delicate balance between maintaining biometric accuracy and accommodating religious sensitivities. JAMB insists that no directive banning the hijab exists and describes the incident as a case of miscommunication rather than discrimination.

Improved awareness of registration procedures at accredited centres, the Board suggested, could help prevent similar misunderstandings in the future.