The 2026 edition of the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) officially commenced across Nigeria on Thursday, marking the start of one of the country’s most significant academic exercises. With over 2.2 million candidates expected to participate, the examination is scheduled to run for seven days, from April 16 to April 22, across 966 accredited Computer-Based Test (CBT) centres nationwide.

Organised by the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB), the UTME serves as a crucial gateway for students seeking admission into tertiary institutions in Nigeria. Given the large number of candidates, the board has structured the examination into multiple daily sessions to ensure efficiency, reduce overcrowding, and maintain a smooth testing process across all centres.

At one of the CBT centres located in Byazhin, Kubwa, within the Bwari Area Council of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), the exercise began on a positive note. Observations from the morning session at Rosa Mystica Academy CBT centre indicated a well-organised and hitch-free process, with candidates adhering to guidelines and officials carrying out their duties effectively.

A biometric verification officer at the centre, Peter Idu, confirmed that the screening process was seamless, with no technical disruptions recorded during the early hours of the examination. According to him, out of the 250 candidates scheduled for the 8:30 a.m. session, 236 were successfully verified and allowed into the examination hall.

He explained that the biometric verification process, which is a critical component of the UTME, functioned without any issues. This process is designed to authenticate candidates’ identities and prevent impersonation, one of the key concerns in large-scale examinations.

“The biometric session for this morning went smoothly. There were no technical challenges, and the majority of the candidates scheduled were screened successfully,” he said.

Beyond the verification stage, strict compliance with examination rules was also evident. Candidates were properly briefed on the regulations before entering the examination hall, particularly regarding the prohibition of unauthorized items such as mobile phones, smartwatches, and other electronic devices.

An ad hoc staff member and supervisor at the centre, Adeosun Olawola, noted that the entire process was well-coordinated from start to finish. He highlighted the punctuality of both candidates and officials as a key factor contributing to the smooth commencement.

According to him, candidates began arriving early in the morning, with screening procedures starting around 6:30 a.m. Although JAMB had earlier adjusted the official arrival time for the first session to 7:00 a.m., many candidates still showed up ahead of time to avoid any last-minute complications.

“This is the first session, and everything is running as expected. Candidates came in early, and we began the verification process on time. The examination itself started exactly at 8:30 a.m., which is the approved time,” Olawola explained.

He also pointed out that there were no incidents of misconduct during the session. This, he said, could be attributed to proper sensitisation of candidates before the examination and the strict enforcement of entry rules at the centre.

“Before allowing them in, we made it clear that any prohibited items should be dropped. The candidates complied fully, and there has been no unruly behaviour so far. If anything arises in later sessions, it will be addressed promptly,” he added.

In terms of technical readiness, the centre appeared fully prepared. Olawola confirmed that all equipment, including computers and cooling systems, were functioning optimally. He revealed that extensive preparations had been carried out the day before the examination, including a mock test and system checks to ensure everything was in order.

“We conducted a dummy test yesterday and remained on-site until evening to make sure all systems were working perfectly. We also briefed all officials thoroughly to prepare them for today’s exercise,” he said.

The preparatory phase also involved trial runs with candidates to test the system’s responsiveness and identify potential issues ahead of the main examination. This proactive approach helped eliminate technical glitches and contributed to the smooth experience recorded during the first session.

On a broader scale, JAMB had earlier assured the public that all necessary arrangements had been completed ahead of the examination. Candidates were advised to print their examination slips in advance to avoid confusion regarding their scheduled dates, venues, and times.

To further enhance the credibility and integrity of the UTME, the board has implemented advanced technological measures, including biometric verification and real-time monitoring systems. These tools are aimed at reducing examination malpractice and ensuring that only duly registered candidates participate in the test.

JAMB has also maintained a strict stance against any form of malpractice, warning that candidates who violate examination rules will face serious consequences. This zero-tolerance policy is part of ongoing efforts to uphold the credibility of the examination and ensure fairness for all participants.

As part of its quality control measures, the board previously conducted a mock UTME to evaluate its systems and personnel. Following the exercise, 23 CBT centres were removed from the list of approved venues due to their inability to meet required standards. Additionally, 11 technical officials were dropped for poor performance, demonstrating the board’s commitment to maintaining high operational standards.

JAMB Registrar, Professor Ishaq Oloyede, had earlier emphasised the importance of diligence and professionalism among examination officials. During a virtual briefing, he urged all personnel involved in the exercise to remain committed and ensure that the examination process runs smoothly across all centres.

He also commended those who contributed to the success of the mock examination and encouraged them to sustain the same level of performance throughout the main UTME.

The UTME remains one of the largest coordinated examinations in Nigeria, requiring meticulous planning and execution. By distributing candidates across multiple days and sessions, JAMB aims to minimise congestion at test centres while maintaining efficiency and order.

As the examination continues in the coming days, the board is expected to closely monitor activities nationwide and address any challenges that may arise. Early indications from centres like the one in the FCT suggest a promising start, raising hopes for a successful and incident-free exercise across the country.

With millions of candidates relying on the UTME as a stepping stone to higher education, the smooth commencement of the 2026 edition is a positive sign of improved coordination, enhanced technology, and a stronger commitment to excellence in Nigeria’s education system.

UTME 2026 Begins Nationwide with Smooth Takeoff at FCT CBT Centre