A human rights organisation has raised concerns about the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board’s failure to recognise Akwa Ibom State University of Education, Afaha Nsit, for the 2026/2027 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination.
The Centre for Human Rights Accountability Network, CHRAN, revealed on Wednesday that despite the state government upgrading the former Akwa Ibom State College of Education to university status in December 2025, JAMB has not included the institution in its approved list for the current admission cycle.
Speaking at a press conference in Uyo, the Director of CHRAN, Otuekong Franklyn Isong, highlighted several administrative irregularities that may have contributed to JAMB’s decision, whilst assessing tertiary education in Akwa Ibom under Governor Pastor Umo Eno’s administration.
Otuekong Isong pointed out that the state’s 2026 Appropriation Law still references the College of Education rather than the University of Education, creating confusion about the institution’s actual status.
CHRAN further observed that the institution lacks a Vice-Chancellor and other principal officers expected in a university structure. The group noted that the institution has no Governing Council, no master plan, no academic brief, and that the law establishing it remains undisclosed to the public.
The rights organisation criticised the continued use of “acting Provost” and “Chief Administrator” positions to run the institution, describing these titles as incompatible with university administration, which should be led by a Vice-Chancellor.
CHRAN warned that failure to address these irregularities urgently could jeopardise the institution’s recognition not only by JAMB but also by the National Universities Commission, the Tertiary Education Trust Fund, and other federal regulatory agencies.
The group also cautioned union leaders within the institution, particularly the leadership of the College of Education Academic Staff Union, Akwa Ibom State College of Education, Afaha Nsit, against actions that could further damage the institution’s credibility. The organisation urged them to collaborate constructively with Governor Umo Eno’s administration to resolve the outstanding issues.
The development leaves prospective students uncertain about the institution’s status for the 2026/2027 admission cycle, as JAMB recognition remains a prerequisite for admitting candidates who sat for the UTME.
Last Updated on February 12, 2026 by Ola Funmilayo
With over a decade of experience in education journalism, JAMB-GOV.ORG has become a trusted voice in providing relevant and comprehensive JAMB news reporting that matter most to students and educators nationwide.
