INEC Moves to Support JAMB With Biometric Technology

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has opened discussions with the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) on the possible use of its biometric verification technology.

The move followed a visit by JAMB Registrar, Prof. Segun Aina, and members of his management team to the INEC headquarters in Abuja on Friday.

Aina said JAMB approached the electoral commission because of its experience in biometric verification. He said the Board wanted to strengthen the credibility of its examination processes.

According to him, JAMB had learnt that INEC had some biometric verification machines that might no longer be in active use.

He appealed to the commission to consider releasing suitable equipment to JAMB for its verification operations.

Receiving the delegation, INEC Chairman, Prof. Joash Amupitan, SAN, welcomed the proposal and praised JAMB for its role in the education of Nigerian youths.

Amupitan said INEC had continued to expand its capacity in the use of technology for electoral processes.

He pointed to the recent Anambra and FCT Area Council elections, the Ekiti and Osun governorship polls and several bye-elections.

He said observers, including the National Security Adviser’s Office and the United Kingdom High Commission, had commended the exercises for their credibility and peaceful conduct.

The INEC chairman subsequently directed the commission’s Director of Information and Communications Technology to examine JAMB’s request.

He ordered a proof-of-concept assessment to establish whether the available biometric equipment could meet JAMB’s needs.

Amupitan described the engagement as another sign of stronger cooperation among government institutions.

He said agencies could achieve more when they share expertise, technology and resources in pursuit of national development.

“The visit reflects the growing synergy between government agencies,” Amupitan said, while assuring JAMB of INEC’s readiness to explore other areas of cooperation.

Aina thanked the INEC chairman and his management team for the reception given to his delegation.

The engagement could further strengthen ties between the two agencies as JAMB seeks to improve identity verification and protect the integrity of its examinations.