Since JAMB 2026 registration began on January 26, 2026, one issue keeps coming up across Nigeria: candidates struggling to generate their JAMB profile code.
No profile code, no registration. It’s that simple.
Across cyber cafés, CBT centres, and WhatsApp groups, students are asking the same questions: How do I get my JAMB profile code for 2026? Why is my NIN not working? Why didn’t I receive the SMS? If you’re facing any of these problems, you’re not alone.
The profile code is the first and most important step in registering for the 2026 UTME conducted by the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB). Without it, you cannot purchase your ePIN or complete your registration.
Here’s everything you need to know — clearly explained for candidates currently registering.
Official JAMB portal:
👉 https://www.jamb.gov.ng
What Is a JAMB Profile Code?
A JAMB profile code is a unique 10-digit number sent to your phone after you link your National Identification Number (NIN) with JAMB.
It serves as your identity within the JAMB system. You’ll use it to:
Purchase JAMB 2026 ePIN
Register at an accredited CBT centre
Make corrections later
Access admission processes
If you’re searching for how to generate JAMB profile code 2026, this is the starting point.
Who Needs a JAMB 2026 Profile Code?
You must generate a profile code if:
You are registering for JAMB 2026 UTME
You are applying for Direct Entry (DE)
You are rewriting JAMB to improve your score
You previously registered in past years but are applying again in 2026
Even returning candidates must generate a fresh profile code for the 2026 registration cycle.
Requirements to Generate JAMB 2026 Profile Code
Before attempting to generate your code, make sure you have:
1. Valid National Identification Number (NIN)
Your NIN must be correctly captured in the NIMC database.
2. Active Phone Number
Use a personal phone number. Do not use a parent’s line or a friend’s SIM. This number becomes permanently linked to your JAMB profile.
3. Sufficient Airtime
Standard SMS charges apply when sending your NIN to the official JAMB short code.
How to Generate JAMB 2026 Profile Code (Step-by-Step)
Many candidates are searching for how to get JAMB profile code 2026 step by step. Here’s exactly how to do it.
Step 1: Open Your SMS App
Use the same phone number you intend to use throughout the JAMB process.
Step 2: Type Your NIN in the Correct Format
Type:
NIN 12345678901
Replace the numbers with your actual 11-digit NIN.
Step 3: Send to Official JAMB Short Code
Send the SMS to the official number provided by JAMB for 2026 registration (confirm on https://www.jamb.gov.ng before sending).
Step 4: Wait for Response
If successful, you will receive:
Your 10-digit JAMB profile code
Confirmation of name as captured in NIN
If you do not receive a response within minutes, check your network or try again later.
What Happens After Generating the Profile Code?
Once you receive your JAMB 2026 profile code:
Purchase your JAMB ePIN.
Visit an accredited CBT centre.
Complete biometric capture.
Finalise your registration.
Common JAMB 2026 Profile Code Errors and How to Fix Them
Search trends show many candidates facing technical issues. Below are the most common profile code problems in 2026 and how to resolve them.
1. “NIN Not Found” Error
Why it happens:
Your NIN is not properly registered with NIMC.
Data mismatch between NIMC and your SMS details.
How to fix it:
Visit a NIMC enrolment centre to confirm your NIN details.
Ensure your date of birth and full name are correct.
Retry after confirmation.
2. No Response After Sending SMS
If you sent your NIN but did not receive a reply:
Possible reasons:
Poor network connection
Insufficient airtime
High traffic on JAMB servers
Solution:
Ensure you have airtime.
Try again later.
Confirm you typed the correct format.
3. Name Mismatch Between NIN and O’Level
This is one of the most serious issues.
If your NIN name differs from your WAEC or NECO name, you may face complications during admission.
What to do:
Correct your NIN details first at NIMC.
Do not proceed with registration until resolved.
4. “Phone Number Already Used” Error
If you see this message, it means:
The phone number was previously linked to another candidate.
Solution:
Use a fresh SIM card that has never been used for JAMB before.
5. Duplicate NIN Error
This usually happens when:
Your NIN is linked to multiple phone numbers.
There is a data duplication issue.
Visit NIMC to clarify your record before trying again.
Important Rules About JAMB Profile Code 2026
One phone number = one candidate.
One NIN = one profile.
Do not generate profile codes for friends.
Keep your SIM active until admission is complete.
Do not share your profile code publicly.
Can You Generate JAMB Profile Code Online?
No.
Many candidates search for how to generate JAMB profile code online without SMS. That is not possible. The official method remains SMS-based using your NIN.
Always verify instructions on the official JAMB portal:
https://www.jamb.gov.ng
JAMB Profile Code for Direct Entry 2026
Direct Entry candidates follow the same SMS process. The only difference is during registration at the CBT centre, where academic credentials will be required.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is JAMB 2026 profile code generation ongoing?
Yes. Since registration started on January 26, 2026, profile code generation is ongoing as of February 2026.
How long does it take to receive JAMB profile code?
Usually within minutes. Delays may occur due to network congestion.
Can I use the same profile code from last year?
No. Each registration year requires a new profile code.
What if I lost my profile code SMS?
Visit an accredited CBT centre. They can retrieve it using your phone number and NIN.
Can I change my phone number after generating profile code?
It is strongly discouraged. Your phone number is permanently linked to your profile.
Is NIN compulsory for JAMB 2026?
Yes. Without NIN, you cannot generate a profile code or register.
Why is my NIN showing wrong date of birth?
Your NIMC record may need correction. Visit a NIMC office before proceeding.
Final Advice for JAMB 2026 Candidates
Do not wait until registration deadline before generating your profile code. Server congestion increases as the closing date approaches.
Confirm your NIN details early. Use a personal SIM. Double-check the SMS format. Avoid third-party agents promising shortcuts.
Most profile code problems are caused by simple data mismatches. Fix them early and continue your registration process smoothly.
If you are still facing issues, verify instructions only from the official JAMB portal and accredited centres.
Stay connected to Ngempower for verified updates on JAMB 2026 and other student opportunities in Nigeria.
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