How to Fix NIN Problems for JAMB Registration (Complete Guide)

Guide on How to Fix NIN Problems for JAMB Registration (2026)

The National Identification Number (NIN) is a compulsory requirement for JAMB registration in Nigeria. Without a valid and properly linked NIN, candidates cannot generate their JAMB profile code, purchase ePIN, or complete UTME or Direct Entry registration.

Unfortunately, many candidates face challenges such as PEXPIRED, INVALID NIN, RECORD NOT FOUND, or NIN not linked to phone number. These issues often cause panic, delay registration, and in some cases make candidates miss deadlines.

This guide explains the common NIN problems affecting JAMB registration and provides practical step-by-step solutions to fix them permanently.

Why NIN Is Required for JAMB Registration

The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) uses NIN to verify the identity of candidates and eliminate multiple registrations. According to the official JAMB website, no candidate can register for UTME or Direct Entry without NIN verification.

Your NIN details are pulled directly from the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC)
database. Any issue with your NIN record will automatically affect your JAMB registration.

Common NIN Problems Affecting JAMB Registration

1. PEXPIRED Error

This error means your NIN record is outdated or no longer valid for verification on the JAMB platform.

Solution:

• Visit the nearest NIMC office for NIN revalidation
• Confirm your SIM–NIN linkage
• Wait 24–48 hours after update before retrying

Read more details here: JAMB Profile Code Error Responses and Solutions

2. INVALID NIN

This occurs when the NIN entered does not exist or was typed incorrectly.

Solution:

• Confirm your NIN from your official NIMC slip
• Ensure it has exactly 11 digits
• Send SMS in the correct format

3. RECORD NOT FOUND

This means JAMB could not locate your NIN details in the NIMC database.

Possible Causes:

• Incomplete NIN enrollment
• Recent NIN registration not yet synchronized

Solution:

• Visit NIMC to confirm registration status
• Request data synchronization
• Retry after a few days

4. NIN Not Linked to Phone Number

This is one of the most common problems faced by candidates.

Solution:

• Link your NIN to your phone number using network USSD codes
• Visit your network provider’s office if USSD fails

See our full guide: How to Link NIN to Phone Number in Nigeria

5. Phone Number Already Used

This means 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

6. Name or Date of Birth Mismatch

If your name or date of birth on NIN differs from your academic records, JAMB may reject verification.

Solution:

• Visit NIMC for correction of details
• Ensure consistency across WAEC, NECO, and JAMB records

Step-by-Step Guide to Fix NIN Problems for JAMB

1. Confirm your NIN slip details
2. Ensure your SIM is linked to your NIN
3. Resolve errors at NIMC if required
4. Wait for data synchronization
5. Retry profile code generation

For complete registration steps, read: JAMB Registration Requirements and Procedures

Where to Get Professional Help

If all solutions fail, candidates should visit:

• An accredited JAMB CBT centre
• A JAMB office
• A NIMC enrollment centre

Avoid roadside agents claiming shortcuts.

Important Tips for Candidates

• Use the same phone number throughout JAMB registration
• Do not send multiple SMS repeatedly
• Start registration early
• Rely on official information from
  JAMB

Conclusion

NIN problems are frustrating but fixable. Understanding the cause of the issue and applying the correct solution will help you complete your JAMB registration successfully without missing deadlines.

For reliable guides, admission updates, and step-by-step registration help, always visit Alphayem.com.ng.