A Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) center in Jalingo, Taraba state, has been left unused and neglected despite receiving N75 million for its equipping and provision of computers and generator.
The project, which was awarded to Pure Diamond Consult Ltd in 2022, was tracked and reported as completed by TrackaNG, a Nigerian civic organisation that monitors public projects and budgets.
According to TrackaNG, the center has been supplied with a Mikano generator set, 160 chairs, and 9 demarcated tables for ten-seaters. However, the site appeared abandoned, with no signs of activity or maintenance.
Residents of the area expressed their concern over the location of the center, which is situated along Yagai road, a notorious route for kidnappers and bandits. They said the center poses a security risk for potential candidates and staff, and urged the government to address the issue of insecurity in the area.
TrackaNG also called on the implementing agency, Sheda Science and Technology Complex (SHESTCO), to provide details on why the center has been abandoned and what plans are in place to make it functional and secure.
The SHESTCO is a parastatal under the Nigerian Ministry of Science & Technology. It is a multidisciplinary research and development establishment located in Kwali Area Council about 70 km from Abuja, Nigeria.
TrackaNG is a project by BudgIT, a Nigerian civic organisation that uses technology and data to promote transparency and accountability in governance and public finance.