Reported by: Oahimire Omone Precious | Edited by: Oravbiere Osayomore Promise.
Nigeria’s annual university entrance examination is set to begin this week, as the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board confirmed its readiness to conduct the 2026 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) across the country from April 16 to April 22.
The nationwide exercise, one of the largest coordinated academic assessments in Africa, will see approximately 2.24 million candidates sit for the computer-based test, a figure that underscores the growing demand for tertiary education in Nigeria. The UTME serves as a critical gateway for admission into universities, polytechnics, and colleges of education, making its smooth conduct a matter of national importance.
In the lead-up to the examination, JAMB has introduced logistical adjustments, including the reassignment of candidates to different examination centres. Officials say the changes were necessary to optimize capacity, address technical concerns, and ensure a more efficient examination process. Candidates have been advised to reprint their examination slips to confirm updated details regarding their exam date, time, and venue.
According to the board, a total of 966 Computer-Based Test (CBT) centres have been approved to host the examination nationwide. These centres have undergone varying levels of screening and accreditation to ensure compliance with JAMB’s operational standards, particularly in areas such as technical infrastructure, power supply, and security arrangements.
However, in a move reflecting increased scrutiny, JAMB announced that 23 centres have been delisted following unsatisfactory performance during the recently conducted mock UTME. The mock exercise, typically organized ahead of the main examination, is designed to test systems, identify potential weaknesses, and familiarize candidates with the CBT format. The removal of underperforming centres is intended to prevent disruptions and maintain the integrity of the examination.
JAMB officials have emphasized that the decision to delist centres was based on objective assessments, including technical failures, poor candidate experience, and operational inefficiencies. The board reiterated its commitment to zero tolerance for lapses that could compromise the examination process.
Security and compliance remain central to this year’s exercise. The examination body has reiterated a strict ban on certain items within examination halls, including mobile phones, calculators, wristwatches, and writing materials such as pens. These measures are part of broader efforts to curb examination malpractice, which has historically posed a challenge to the credibility of standardized testing in Nigeria.
Candidates found in possession of prohibited items risk severe penalties, including disqualification and possible prosecution. JAMB has consistently warned that technological advancements in monitoring and surveillance have made it increasingly difficult to circumvent examination rules.
In recent years, the board has deployed a range of measures to enhance transparency and accountability, including biometric verification, real-time monitoring, and the use of closed-circuit cameras at CBT centres. These innovations are aimed at ensuring that only duly registered candidates sit for the examination and that results accurately reflect individual performance.
Education stakeholders have welcomed the improvements in examination administration, noting that the shift to computer-based testing has reduced some of the logistical challenges associated with traditional paper-based exams. However, concerns remain about access to technology, particularly in rural areas where infrastructure may be limited.
JAMB has sought to address these concerns by distributing centres across all states and ensuring that candidates are assigned locations within reasonable proximity to their residence. Nonetheless, some candidates may still need to travel considerable distances, especially in areas with fewer accredited centres.
The board has also urged candidates to arrive at their designated centres well ahead of their scheduled examination time to allow for verification and other pre-examination procedures. Late arrival, officials warn, could result in candidates being denied entry, given the tightly managed schedule of CBT sessions.
Parents and guardians have been advised to support candidates by ensuring they adhere to all guidelines and maintain composure during the examination period. Experts emphasize that preparation, punctuality, and compliance with rules are key factors in achieving success.
The UTME remains a highly competitive examination, with limited admission spaces available relative to the number of applicants. This imbalance has intensified the pressure on candidates, many of whom view the test as a defining moment in their academic journey.
Beyond its immediate role in admissions, the UTME is also seen as a barometer of the country’s education system, reflecting broader issues such as curriculum quality, access to learning resources, and student preparedness. As such, its conduct is closely watched by policymakers, educators, and the general public.
As the 2026 examination begins, attention will be focused on JAMB’s ability to deliver a seamless process, free from major technical disruptions or security breaches. The board’s performance in this regard will not only impact candidates but also shape public confidence in Nigeria’s examination systems.
For the millions of candidates preparing to sit the UTME this week, the coming days represent both a challenge and an opportunity. With careful adherence to guidelines and a focus on performance, they will be seeking to secure a place in the nation’s higher education institutions and take the next step toward their academic and professional aspirations.
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