The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) has disclosed that 2026 examination candidates and visitors below the age of 18 years are not required to show proof of COVID-19 vaccination before being granted access into JAMB examination halls and facilities across the country.
A statement released by the head of JAMB’s media and protocol unit, Fabian Benjamin, said only those listed under the NCDC vaccination policy are mandated to provide vaccination cards. He added that the board discovered many underage candidates have gone as far as falsifying their ages in order to be vaccinated just to access JAMB’s services.
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The board, however, said candidates will be required to provide proof of being underage to be allowed access to its facilities.
Fabian explained that the directive was put in place to protect the public as well as the staff of the Board from the scourging coronavirus.
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FAQs
Is it true that JAMB no longer requires COVID-19 vaccination cards from underage candidates?
Yes, it is true. The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) has clarified that underage candidates — typically those below 18 years — are not required to present COVID-19 vaccination cards when visiting JAMB offices or CBT centres. This exemption is based on the fact that such candidates are not legally eligible for vaccination under national health guidelines.
Do adult candidates still need to show COVID-19 vaccination cards at JAMB offices?
Yes. Adult candidates, who are 18 years and above, are still expected to present their COVID-19 vaccination cards before being allowed access to JAMB offices or services. This is part of the board’s compliance with public health safety measures to prevent the spread of COVID-19.
What should underage candidates bring instead of a vaccination card when visiting JAMB centres?
Underage candidates should bring valid identification documents such as their birth certificate, National Identification Number (NIN), or school ID card to verify their age. This will confirm their exemption from the COVID-19 vaccination card requirement and allow them access to JAMB-related services.