Teenage girl’s UTME registration fails over missing fingerprints, highlights biometric exclusion

A teenager attempting to register for the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) could not complete the process because biometric scanners failed to capture her fingerprints. Her mother reported that a dermatologist diagnosed her with Adermatoglyphia, a rare genetic condition that prevents the development of fingerprint ridges. The condition, linked to a mutation in the SMARCAD1 gene, is inherited in an autosomal dominant pattern, giving a child a 50 per cent chance of inheriting it if one parent is affected. People with Adermatoglyphia have smooth fingertips, palms and soles but are otherwise healthy, with normal skin function, sensation and healing.

Nathaniel Uno, Consultant Dermatologist at University College Hospital (UCH), Ibadan, confirmed he has seen two cases in 12 years of practice. He explained that diagnosis is clinical, supported by dermoscopy and exclusion of acquired causes like burns or eczema. Genetic testing can confirm the condition but is not routinely available in Nigeria. Adermatoglyphia has no symptoms beyond the absence of ridges, so most people remain undiagnosed until they encounter biometric systems. With Nigeria's reliance on fingerprints for Bank Verification Number (BVN), National Identification Number (NIN), SIM registration, NYSC and JAMB, affected individuals risk exclusion from essential services.

Kehinde Ololade, Consultant Radiation and Clinical Oncologist at Jakaranda Cancer Care, noted that no treatment can induce ridge formation in congenital cases. Bernard Agbamuche, President of Inclusive Voices Coalition, said systems requiring fingerprints as the sole biometric method are discriminatory, especially for those with invisible genetic conditions. As of 2026, no Nigerian agency has published a standardised alternative or exception form for people with Adermatoglyphia.

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