The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) has announced its readiness for the conduct of the 2026 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME), with over 2.2 million candidates expected to participate nationwide.
The examination is scheduled to take place from April 16 to April 22, 2026, across 966 accredited Computer-Based Test (CBT) centres nationwide.
In a statement, the Board said preparations were finalised following a comprehensive assessment of its examination logistics, including the removal of 23 CBT centres that failed to meet required standards during the recently concluded mock UTME.
Candidates have been advised to print their examination notification slips via the Board’s official website, noting that the document contains key details such as examination date, time, venue, and instructions required for biometric verification and seamless participation.
JAMB also urged candidates to familiarise themselves with their assigned centres ahead of their scheduled examinations to avoid last-minute logistical challenges.
Reaffirming its commitment to inclusivity, the Board disclosed that special arrangements have been made for candidates living with disabilities under the JAMB Equal Opportunity Group (JEOG), chaired by former Executive Secretary of the National Universities Commission, Peter Okebukola.
On examination integrity, JAMB reiterated its zero-tolerance stance on malpractice, warning that candidates found engaging in any form of misconduct, including the use of prohibited items or cheating, would face strict sanctions in line with existing laws.
To strengthen the credibility of the process, the Board stated that enhanced security protocols and advanced technological systems have been deployed to detect and prevent malpractice across all centres.
The Registrar of JAMB, Is-haq Oloyede, charged examination officials to uphold professionalism and discipline, noting that the success of the UTME largely depends on their conduct and commitment.
Speaking during a virtual final briefing for technical officers, Oloyede commended staff, ad-hoc personnel, and service providers for their performance during the mock exercise, while urging them to intensify efforts for the main examination.
He also disclosed that 11 technical officers had been delisted over poor performance, adding that further disciplinary actions may follow based on ongoing investigations.
The registrar noted that outstanding personnel would be rewarded based on efficiency, accuracy, and timely delivery of responsibilities, describing the initiative as part of efforts to promote accountability and excellence.
JAMB further stated that candidates flagged due to verification challenges would be rescheduled to sit the examination at approved centres.
In her remarks, Director of Information Technology Services, Mrs. Fumilola B. Usman, emphasised the importance of teamwork and effective communication among examination officials, noting that seamless coordination remains critical to the success of the exercise.
The Board reaffirmed its commitment to delivering a credible, transparent, and inclusive examination process in line with international best practices.
