The House of Reps took action on Thursday, urging the Joint Admission and Matriculation Board (JAMB) to extend the registration period for the 2024 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) by an additional two weeks. This decision was prompted by the economic difficulties faced by many families, which prevented them from registering their wards before the initial deadline of February 26, 2024, set by JAMB. Rep Bello Hassan Shinkafi emphasized the importance of widening the coverage and participation in this year’s UTME across Nigeria, asserting that without an extension, numerous candidates would be unable to register and take part in the examination.

Shinkafi’s motion was met with unanimous support from fellow lawmakers, culminating in its adoption through a voice vote presided over by Speaker Abbas Tajudeen. The swift response from JAMB to extend the registration period is anticipated to alleviate the concerns of parents and facilitate the registration of their children. This extension is not only seen as a practical solution to ensure broader participation in the UTME but also as a gesture that acknowledges the challenging circumstances faced by families amidst the prevailing economic situation in the country.