2026 UTME Begins Nationwide as JAMB Deploys Biometric Verification and Tight Security Measures

2026 UTME has commenced nationwide as JAMB deploys Biometric Verification and tight security measures.

 

NewsOnline Nigeria reports that the 2026 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) has officially commenced nationwide, with over 2.2 million candidates expected to participate across accredited centres in Nigeria.

 

The examination, organised by the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board, is scheduled to run from April 16 to April 22 in multiple daily sessions.

 

Registrar of JAMB, Prof. Is-haq Oloyede, urged examination officials to demonstrate professionalism and full commitment, noting that the success of the UTME depends largely on their dedication and efficiency.

 

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He gave the charge during a virtual final briefing for technical officers ahead of the examination, where he also commended staff, ad hoc personnel, service providers, and technical advisers for their roles in the successful conduct of the mock examination.

 

According to him, most challenges recorded during the mock exercise were due to inadequate assessment of examination centres by some technical officials.

 

Oloyede further stated that incentive packages would be awarded to teams that demonstrate exceptional performance, particularly in the prompt handling of examination materials and timely submission of reports.

 

He reiterated JAMB’s zero-tolerance stance on examination malpractice and warned candidates against bringing prohibited items into examination halls.

 

The registrar also confirmed that advanced technology, including biometric verification and real-time monitoring systems, has been deployed to safeguard the integrity of the examination.

 

Candidates whose biometric data cannot be verified will be rescheduled to sit the examination at approved centres designated by the board.

 

Meanwhile, a NAN correspondent who monitored proceedings at Aduvie International School, Jahi, reported that the first session scheduled for 8:30 a.m. began slightly late at about 8:40 a.m.