JAMB set for 2.2 million candidates in 2026 UTME

Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) has declared full readiness for the 2026 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME), which kicks off on Thursday, April 16, and runs till Tuesday, April 22, across the country.

The board disclosed that over 2.2 million candidates registered for the exercise, which will hold in 966 Computer-Based Test (CBT) centres nationwide. JAMB spokesperson Fabian Benjamin confirmed the figures while assuring that all necessary arrangements have been concluded to ensure a smooth and hitch-free examination.

In a decisive move to uphold standards, JAMB delisted 23 CBT centres following poor performance and technical deficiencies recorded during the recent mock UTME held on March 28, 2026. The affected centres spread across 11 states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT). The board also issued stern warnings to 89 other centres to upgrade their facilities or face similar sanctions. One centre reportedly received a permanent ban from hosting any JAMB examinations in the future.

Candidates who are yet to print their examination notification slips have been strongly advised to do so immediately by visiting the official JAMB website. The slips contain critical details such as the exact examination date, time, and venue. Failure to print the slip could lead to unnecessary delays or denial of entry at the centres.

JAMB has also made special provisions for candidates living with disabilities through its Equal Opportunity Group (JEOG). This initiative ensures inclusivity, with tailored support including free application processing for qualified persons with disabilities (PWDs) in previous cycles, continuing the board’s commitment to equitable access to tertiary education.

The board, under the leadership of Registrar Prof. Is-haq Oloyede, issued a strong warning against all forms of examination malpractice. Candidates have been cautioned to avoid bringing prohibited items such as mobile phones, smart watches, earpieces, or any electronic devices into the examination halls. Strict security measures, including thorough screening, will be enforced at all centres to maintain the integrity of the process.

Parents and guardians have equally been urged to guide their wards properly and ensure they adhere strictly to all guidelines. JAMB reiterated that any candidate found engaging in malpractice will face severe sanctions, including outright cancellation of results and possible prosecution.

As the countdown to the 2026 UTME begins, NaijaChoice News advises all candidates to remain calm, revise adequately, and arrive at their centres early as per the adjusted timelines released by JAMB. The board has adjusted the arrival time for the first session to 7:00 a.m., with the exam starting at 8:30 a.m.

This year’s examination remains a crucial gateway for millions of Nigerian youths seeking admission into universities, polytechnics, and colleges of education. Stakeholders commend JAMB for its proactive steps in addressing challenges identified during the mock exercise while maintaining focus on fairness and transparency.