The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) has reaffirmed its policy, stating that there is no ban on the use of hijabs for candidates during the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME).

In a press release issued by its spokesperson, Dr Fabian Benjamin, JAMB addressed the situation that took place yesterday at the Esther Oshikoya CBT Centre in Ibadan.

According to the board, the issue was identified through its internal monitoring mechanisms during the screening exercise for yesterday’s examination.

JAMB stated that it intervened immediately by calling the ad hoc official involved to order and issuing firm instructions that no candidate wearing a hijab should be directed to remove or alter it.

The board clarified that the incident did not reflect an official or directive of the centre but rather the action of an overzealous ad hoc staff member who failed to adhere to established screening guidelines on candidates’ religious attire.

“JAMB categorically affirms that such actions are not in line with its screening procedures. The Board respects the religious beliefs and customs of all Nigerians and has addressed the situation promptly and appropriately.

“We assure all candidates, regardless of faith, that their rights to religious expression, including dressing, remain a cornerstone of our policy,” it added.

The examination body promised candidates that their rights to religious expression, especially dress, remain an important part of its regulatory framework.

The body further revealed that all ad hoc staff have been briefed and reminded of the approved screening procedures across all centres to prevent a recurrence.

“JAMB stressed that such actions are not in line with its screening procedures. The Board respects the religious beliefs and customs of all Nigerians and has addressed the situation promptly and appropriately,” the statement read.