Complete List of JAMB Profile Code Error Responses, Meaning and Solutions (2026 Guide)
Generating a JAMB profile code is the first and most important step in registering for the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) examination in Nigeria. Every candidate must generate this profile code by sending their National Identification Number (NIN) via SMS to 55019 or 66019.
If you are new to the JAMB process, you may want to first read our detailed guide on JAMB Registration Requirements and Procedures
However, many candidates encounter error responses such as PEXPIRED, INVALID NIN, or RECORD NOT FOUND instead of receiving their profile code. These messages can be confusing, especially for first-time candidates.
This article provides a complete and updated list of JAMB profile code error responses, explains what each error means, and gives practical solutions that have worked for candidates across Nigeria.
How JAMB Profile Code Generation Works
To generate your JAMB profile code, you must send your NIN in the format below:
NIN 12345678901
Send the SMS to 55019 or 66019 using the phone number you intend to use throughout your JAMB registration.
According to the official JAMB website
, the phone number used must be properly linked to your NIN, otherwise an error message will be returned.
List of JAMB Profile Code Error Responses and Their Solutions
1. PEXPIRED
Meaning:
The PEXPIRED error means your NIN record has expired or is no longer valid for verification on the JAMB platform.
This problem is commonly reported by candidates whose NIN details are outdated or whose SIM–NIN linkage is incomplete.
Solution:
- Visit the nearest NIMC office to update or revalidate your NIN
- Ensure your phone number is properly linked to your NIN
- Wait 24–48 hours after update and resend the SMS
You can also read our guide on how to fix NIN problems for JAMB registration
2. INVALID NIN
Meaning:
This error indicates that the NIN sent is incorrect or does not exist in the NIMC database.
Solution:
- Confirm that your NIN has exactly 11 digits
- Avoid spaces or special characters
- Cross-check your NIN slip from NIMC
3. RECORD NOT FOUND
Meaning:
JAMB could not locate your NIN details in the NIMC database.
This often affects candidates who recently enrolled for NIN.
Solution:
- Confirm your registration status at NIMC
- Wait a few days if your NIN is newly captured
- Request data synchronization if necessary
4. NIN NOT LINKED TO PHONE NUMBER
Meaning:
The phone number used to send the SMS is not linked to the provided NIN.
Solution:
- Visit your mobile network provider (MTN, Glo, Airtel, or 9mobile)
- Request SIM–NIN linkage
- Use only the linked number to resend the SMS
See also: How to link NIN to phone number in Nigeria
5. PHONE NUMBER ALREADY USED
Meaning:
The phone number has already been used by another candidate to generate a JAMB profile code.
Solution:
- Get a new phone number
- Each candidate must use a unique number
- Avoid shared family phone numbers
6. PROFILE CODE ALREADY GENERATED
Meaning:
Your JAMB profile code has already been generated.
Solution:
- Check your old SMS messages
- Send RESEND to 55019 or 66019
- Visit an accredited JAMB CBT centre
7. SIM BLOCKED OR BARRED
Meaning:
Your SIM is restricted from sending premium SMS.
Solution:
- Contact your network provider
- Request premium SMS activation
- Ensure your line has sufficient airtime
8. SERVICE TEMPORARILY UNAVAILABLE
Meaning:
JAMB or network servers are currently down or congested.
Solution:
- Retry later, preferably at night or early morning
- Ensure strong network coverage
9. DUPLICATE RECORD DETECTED
Meaning:
Multiple or conflicting records have been detected for the same NIN.
Solution:
- Visit a JAMB office or accredited CBT centre
- Resolve biometric or data conflicts
10. NIN SUSPENDED OR RESTRICTED
Meaning:
Your NIN has been flagged or suspended by NIMC due to irregularities.
Solution:
- Visit NIMC for clarification
- Correct any data issues
- Retry profile code generation afterward
Important Tips for JAMB Candidates
- Use the same phone number throughout your JAMB registration
- Ensure your name and date of birth match your NIN record
- Avoid repeated SMS attempts within short intervals
- Always rely on official information from JAMB
Conclusion
JAMB profile code error messages are common, but they are not permanent. Once you understand what each error means and apply the correct solution, generating your profile code becomes easy.
If all solutions fail, candidates should visit the nearest accredited CBT centre or a JAMB office for assistance.
For more JAMB updates, guides, and admission tips, visit our JAMB News and Updates page
