As registration for the 2026 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) officially kicks off, a wave of controversy has emerged following reports that the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) has “canceled” concessions for candidates with albinism.
However, a closer look at the official guidelines released today, Sunday, 25 January 2026, suggests a shift in verification and classification rather than a total removal of support. JAMB has introduced stricter measures to ensure that special privileges reach those who truly need them.
Historically, candidates with albinism were granted “special time” (usually an extra 30 to 60 minutes) during the CBT exam due to potential visual impairments. For the 2026 cycle:
JAMB has replaced “blanket concessions” with a requirement for a certified medical report from a government hospital. Only candidates whose albinism significantly affects their vision will now qualify for extra time.
The institution now classifies candidates with albinism under the broader “Candidates with Visual Impairment” category. If an albino candidate does not have a documented vision issue, they are expected to finish within the standard time.
The board stated that albinism itself is not a disability, but the visual complications arising from it are. Therefore, the concession is no longer “automatic” upon registration but must be applied for and proven.
The Registrar of JAMB, Prof. Is-haq Oloyede, indicated that the move is designed to ensure Exam Equity; to prevent the abuse of extra time by candidates who do not actually suffer from photophobia or low vision as well as ensuring that the “JAMB Equal Opportunity Group” (JEOG) focuses resources on candidates with severe physical and sensory challenges.
JAMB 2026 Special Category Guidelines
| Category | Concession Provided | Requirement |
| Visually Impaired | Braille / Audio / Extra Time | Medical Report |
| Albinism | Extra Time (Case-by-Case) | Verified Low Vision Report |
| Deaf/Mute | Sign Language Interpreter | Verified Status |
| Physical Disability | Special Sitting Arrangement | Physical Verification |
Advocacy groups, including the Albinism Association of Nigeria, have expressed concern, arguing that the new verification process adds an “unnecessary hurdle” for students who already face societal stigma. They are calling for a meeting with JAMB to ensure that no student is unfairly penalized for a lack of a medical certificate.
