Borno State Governor, Professor Babagana Umara Zulum, has commissioned and handed over a multi-million naira office complex and a 500-capacity Computer-Based Test (CBT) centre to the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) in Maiduguri.
The facility, located along the Maiduguri–Dikwa Road, will serve as JAMB’s North East zonal office, covering states across the region. It comprises a modern administrative block and a dual CBT centre capable of accommodating 500 candidates per session.
Speaking at the commissioning ceremony, Governor Zulum said the project underscores his administration’s commitment to strengthening education and supporting national examination infrastructure.
“This facility is our contribution to improving education service delivery in the North East and ensuring that candidates have access to quality examination centres,” Zulum stated.
He added that the centre would function as a regional hub for candidates seeking admission into tertiary institutions, reducing the burden of travel and improving efficiency in examination processes.
JAMB Registrar, Professor Ishaq Oloyede, who received the facility on behalf of the Board, described the project as unprecedented, noting that it is the first time a state government has independently built and handed over a zonal office and CBT centre to JAMB.
“Today, reality has surpassed my expectations. In just four months, what seemed humanly impossible has been accomplished,” Oloyede said.
“The CBT centre you have graciously provided will serve as a beacon of excellence for computer-based testing and administrative services. It will bring immense relief to candidates, educational institutions, and stakeholders across this region.”
Oloyede disclosed that the centre has the capacity to process more than 2,000 candidates daily, with in-built registration units that would enable the Board to complete registration and documentation for applicants within a few days.
He further praised the governor’s investment in education, noting that it would help rebuild confidence in the region’s education system.
“Your investment in education, human capital development, and youth empowerment continues to inspire hope and reaffirms the role of education as a foundation for peace and stability,” he added.
Governor Zulum also directed the Borno State Ministry of Education to name the facility after Professor Oloyede in recognition of his contributions to educational development in Nigeria.
Dignitaries at the event included the Secretary to the Borno State Government, Bukar Tijani; incoming JAMB Registrar, Professor Segun Aina; Acting Chief of Staff to the Governor, Dr Babagana Mustapha Malumbe; and the Commissioner for Education, Engr Lawan Abba Wakilbe, among other senior officials.
