Out of the over 40,000 underage candidates who sat for the 2025 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination only 467 Candidates, (representing just 1.16 per cent) scored high enough to be categorized as exceptionally gifted, the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) has revealed. This figure emerged from a total of 1,955,069 results processed so far, the board stated in a post shared via its official X handle, @JAMBHQ, on Monday. According to JAMB, while the underage candidates were given the opportunity to showcase their academic prowess, their full assessment remains incomplete.

The post indicated that their performance in the subsequent three stages is still pending, while the board hinted at a continued evaluation process for the young candidates. The Examination Body However, raised red flags over issues that marred the conduct of this year’s examination, including misconduct, absenteeism, and technical challenges. According to the figures, a total of 97 candidates were involved in examination infractions, adding that 2,157 others are currently undergoing investigations for suspected malpractices. Absenteeism was another concern, with 71,701 candidates failing to appear for the exam. On this, 71,701 candidates were absent, without offering further explanation for their absence.

On the technical front, JAMB acknowledged ongoing issues with biometric verification adding that Candidates who faced biometric challenges are under investigation, and those who are cleared will be rescheduled for examination at designated centres. To address all these issues and provide more clarity, JAMB said a press conference has been scheduled. During the briefing, further updates will be given, and individual result-checking portals will be activated.