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Introduction: The Big Question Nigerian Students Ask

Every year, thousands of Nigerian students preparing for JAMB (Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board) exams ask the same question:

“Can I use another person’s SIM to generate profile code?”

At first glance, it might seem like an easy shortcut, especially if you lose your SIM, can’t afford to buy a new one, or your phone number isn’t working. But the truth is: using another person’s SIM for JAMB comes with serious risks that can destroy your admission journey.

This article will explain:

• What a JAMB profile code is and why it matters

• The official rules from JAMB about SIM cards

• The dangers of using another person’s SIM

• Step-by-step correct alternatives if you lost your SIM

• Real-life examples of students who made mistakes

• FAQs with clear answers

By the end, you will know exactly what to do (and what not to do) when it comes to generating your JAMB profile code.

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Understanding JAMB Profile Code: The Foundation of Registration

Before we answer the main question, let’s first understand what a JAMB profile code is.

What is JAMB Profile Code?

The JAMB profile code is a unique 10-digit number that every candidate must generate before registering for UTME or Direct Entry. Without this code, you cannot even start the registration process.

How is JAMB Profile Code Generated?

1. You send your NIN (National Identification Number) to either 55019 or 66019 via SMS.

2. JAMB sends back your unique profile code to the same phone number.

3. You take this code to the CBT center to complete registration.

Why is the Profile Code Important?

• It is your ID number throughout your JAMB journey.

• It links your NIN to your JAMB data.

• It is used for everything: registration, checking results, correction of data, and admission status.

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Can I Use Another Person’s SIM to Generate Profile Code?

The Straight Answer

No, you should not use another person’s SIM card to generate JAMB profile code.

Here’s why:

• JAMB clearly states that the SIM card must be yours and linked to your NIN.

• Using another person’s SIM creates confusion and may lock you out of your admission process.

• OTPs (One-Time Passwords) and important messages will always go to that SIM, meaning you will depend on the other person forever.

JAMB’s Official Rule

JAMB insists that:

1. The SIM must be registered in the candidate’s name.

2. The SIM must be linked to the candidate’s NIN.

3. No candidate should use a friend’s, parent’s, or sibling’s SIM.

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Why Students Think of Using Another Person’s SIM

Even though JAMB forbids it, many students still ask: “Can I use my brother’s SIM? Can I use my mom’s SIM?”

Here are the main reasons students try it:

1. They Lost Their Own SIM
   Many students lose their SIM cards before JAMB registration.

2. SIM Not Linked to NIN
   Some SIMs are not yet linked to NIN, making them invalid for JAMB.

3. Network Issues
   Sometimes, the network fails to deliver the profile code SMS. Out of frustration, students try another SIM.

4. Borrowed During NIN Registration
   Some candidates even used another person’s SIM during NIN registration and think it is okay to continue with JAMB.

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What Happens If You Use Another Person’s SIM for JAMB?

This is where the danger lies. Using another person’s SIM can lead to big problems.

1. You Will Not Receive OTPs

Whenever you want to:

• Correct your data

• Link your email

• Print admission letter
  JAMB sends OTPs to the registered SIM. If it is not yours, you will not have access.

2. You Will Depend on That Person Forever

Every time JAMB sends a message, it will go to that SIM. If the person is not available, you are stuck.

3. Confusion During Admission

If two people are using the same SIM for different JAMB registrations, it can cause mix-ups in admission records.

4. Loss of Admission Opportunity

Some students have completely lost admission because they could not access OTPs sent to a SIM they didn’t own.

5. Possible Disqualification

JAMB may flag suspicious registrations. Using another person’s SIM may cause problems with verification.

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Real-Life Examples

• Example 1: Emeka from Abuja used his friend’s SIM to generate profile code. Later, when he wanted to do change of course, JAMB sent OTP to the friend’s number. The friend had traveled and Emeka missed the deadline. He lost admission that year.

• Example 2: Halima from Kano used her mother’s SIM. During result checking, she had no issues. But when it was time to accept admission on CAPS, the OTP went to her mother’s line. Unfortunately, the line was not available. She had to queue at JAMB office to fix the issue.

• Example 3: Chinedu from Enugu followed JAMB rules and retrieved his lost SIM from MTN office. He had no problem with OTPs or admission.

These examples show why it is better to stick to your own SIM card.

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Alternatives If You Cannot Use Your Own SIM

Sometimes, you may have genuine reasons why your SIM is unavailable. What should you do instead of using another person’s SIM?

1. Retrieve Your Lost SIM (Best Option)

Go to your network provider’s office (MTN, Glo, Airtel, or 9mobile). With your NIN and ID card, you can do a SIM swap and get your number back.

2. Link Your NIN Properly

Make sure your SIM is linked to your NIN before sending the SMS to JAMB. This solves most profile code issues.

3. Visit JAMB Office

If retrieval is impossible (e.g., SIM was not registered in your name), go to the nearest JAMB office and request a change of phone number.

4. Use JAMB Support Ticket

Submit your complaint at support.jamb.gov.ng. JAMB officials will guide you on what to do.

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Pros and Cons: Your SIM vs Another Person’s SIM

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Practical Steps to Generate JAMB Profile Code Correctly

Here is the right way to do it:

1. Get a Valid SIM Card in Your Name

• Must be registered with NIN

• Must be active with SMS service

2. Compose SMS

• Text: NIN [your 11-digit NIN]

• Example: NIN 12345678901

3. Send to 55019 or 66019

• Use the JAMB official shortcodes only.

4. Receive Profile Code

• Within minutes, you should get your 10-digit profile code.

5. Save the Code Securely

• Write it down

• Save as a note on your phone

• Email it to yourself

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Summary Table: Can I Use Another Person’s SIM for JAMB Profile Code?