The 2026 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) has officially commenced across Nigeria, with more than 2.2 million candidates taking part in the nationwide exercise.
The examination, organised by the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB), is being conducted in over 900 accredited Computer-Based Test (CBT) centres. Authorities say the process has been largely smooth, despite minor technical issues reported in a few locations.
Smooth Start Despite Minor Challenges
The exam, which runs from April 16 to April 22, is scheduled in multiple sessions daily, starting from 8:30 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
In several parts of the country, candidates arrived early at their centres to complete verification processes. In Lagos, many candidates showed determination by turning up on time despite heavy rainfall in the early hours of the day.
Security officials conducted strict screening at entry points, ensuring that only authorised materials were allowed into examination halls.
Strong Security Presence Across Centres
Personnel from the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) were deployed nationwide to maintain order and enforce compliance with examination rules.
Candidates underwent biometric verification and physical checks before gaining access to CBT centres. Similar measures were reported in northern states, including Maiduguri, where security screening was intensified.
Officials say these steps are part of broader efforts to prevent examination malpractice and protect the credibility of the UTME.
Technical Glitches Recorded in Some Centres
Although the overall process has been stable, a few centres experienced technical difficulties. These included system delays and issues with question uploads.
Some CBT operators blamed the disruptions on platform-related problems, while JAMB officials pointed to poor infrastructure and inadequate equipment maintenance at certain centres.
To ensure fairness, affected candidates have been rescheduled.
An official explained that the decision was necessary to prevent any candidate from being disadvantaged, noting that some systems functioned properly while others experienced faults.
JAMB Responds to Hijab Incident
JAMB also addressed reports of a candidate allegedly asked to remove her hijab at a CBT centre in Ibadan.
The board clarified that the incident was caused by an overzealous staff member and does not reflect its official policy. It reaffirmed that candidates are allowed to wear religious attire without interference.
Authorities confirmed that the issue was quickly resolved and normal operations continued at the centre.
Enhanced Technology to Prevent Malpractice
JAMB has introduced advanced technological measures for this year’s UTME. These include biometric verification systems and real-time monitoring tools aimed at detecting and preventing malpractice.
Ahead of the examination, the board conducted a mock UTME to test its systems. Following the exercise, several CBT centres were delisted for failing to meet required standards, while some technical personnel were replaced due to poor performance.
Nationwide Security Reinforcement
Security agencies across multiple states have assured candidates of their safety throughout the examination period.
In the Federal Capital Territory, police authorities confirmed that adequate personnel and resources have been deployed to all CBT centres.
Similar measures have been implemented in states like Gombe and Kogi, where officials warned that any attempt to disrupt the examination would be met with strict action.
Authorities also emphasised the importance of respecting candidates’ rights, including religious freedoms, while maintaining strict screening procedures.
Education Stakeholders Promote Ethical Learning
Meanwhile, education stakeholders have continued to advocate for integrity among candidates.
In Ondo State, tutorial school operators organised academic competitions to boost students’ confidence and discourage malpractice.
Organisers say such initiatives are designed to prepare candidates thoroughly, ensuring they rely on their knowledge rather than dishonest practices during examinations.
UTME Continues Nationwide
The 2026 UTME will continue across the country in the coming days, with ongoing monitoring, security presence, and technical supervision expected to ensure a smooth and credible process.
