INEC to support JAMB with biometric verification technology

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has offered to support the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) with biometric verification technology.

INEC Chairman, Joash Amupitan, a professor, made the offer on Friday during a courtesy visit by JAMB Registrar, Segun Aina, and his management team.

Mr Amupitan praised JAMB’s statutory responsibilities, describing the board as vital to national development and the progress of Nigerian youth.

He noted that INEC’s recent elections showcased its increasing technological capacity, citing the Anambra and Ekiti governorship elections.

He also referenced the Osun governorship election, the FCT Area Council election, and various by-elections held nationwide.

According to him, observers, including the Office of the National Security Adviser and the UK High Commission, commended the credibility and peaceful conduct of the elections.

Mr Amupitan instructed INEC’s Director of Information and Communications Technology (ICT) to review JAMB’s request through a proof-of-concept assessment.

He explained that the assessment aimed to determine the availability and appropriateness of INEC’s biometric verification equipment for potential deployment by JAMB.

The INEC chairman described the visit as a sign of increasing cooperation among government agencies and emphasised the importance of collaboration for national development.

He assured the delegation that the commission would explore additional areas of partnership with JAMB.

Earlier, Mr Aina, a professor, said JAMB approached INEC as a sister agency with proven experience in biometric verification technology.

He stated that the board sought to improve the integrity of its examination processes through better biometric verification systems.

Mr Aina mentioned that JAMB was aware that INEC might have biometric verification machines that are no longer in use.

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He urged the commission to consider providing these machines to help JAMB enhance its verification processes.

He expressed his gratitude to the INEC chairman and management for the warm reception extended to his delegation.

Also present at the meeting were INEC National Commissioner for Outreach and Partnerships, Abdullahi Abdu-Zuru, INEC Chairman’s Chief Press Secretary, Adedayo Oketola, and other officials.