Candidates not required to remove Hijab during registration - JAMB clarifies
The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) has clarified that candidates are not required to remove their hijabs during registration. The board issued the clarification following a viral video alleging
The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) has clarified that candidates are not required to remove their hijabs during registration.
The board issued the clarification following a viral video alleging discrimination against a Muslim candidate at Afe Babalola University (ABUAD).
In the video, shared by social media user AsakyGRN, a man claimed his sister was instructed to remove her hijab before being photographed for exam registration.
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“I followed my sister to the JAMB centre to collect her form. She was told to remove her hijab before she could be captured,” he said.
“After the capturing, they asked her to sign an undertaking for wearing a hijab. Are Muslims now being discriminated against for wearing hijabs?”
Responding in a statement posted on its official X account on Saturday, JAMB said it has never issued any directive prohibiting candidates from wearing hijabs.
The board explained that, as part of standard biometric procedures worldwide, both ears must be visible during photo capture for identification purposes — similar to requirements for international passports and visas.
“This requirement is purely technical and is intended to ensure proper facial recognition and identification. It does not require the candidate to remove her hijab,” the statement read.
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Addressing the specific incident at ABUAD, JAMB stated that the candidate’s religious stance was respected.
“She was requested to formally state in writing that she personally chose not to comply with the guideline regarding ear visibility, so that the record would accurately reflect the circumstances and prevent future misrepresentation,” the board said.
“She obliged and was successfully captured, albeit after considerable time and effort.
“For clarity, candidates are not required to remove their hijab. The simple requirement is that the ears be visible during photo capture, which can be done without removing the hijab itself.
“This is a standard biometric procedure, similar to what is obtained during passport or visa applications at embassies worldwide.”
JAMB urged the public to avoid spreading misleading information and encouraged individuals to seek clarification where necessary. The board reaffirmed its commitment to respecting the rights and beliefs of all candidates, regardless of religion or background.
