JAMB Launches 2026 UTME Across Nigeria with Organized First Session
The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) has officially commenced the 2026 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) nationwide, marking the beginning of a critical phase for thousands of candidates aspiring to enter tertiary institutions in Nigeria. The examination, conducted via Computer-Based Test (CBT) format, kicked off with its first session on Thursday, April 16, 2026, at various centres across the country.
First Session Details at NAF Valley Estate Centre
At the 23 Technology Limited CBT Centre located in NAF Valley Estate, the inaugural session saw a high turnout of candidates. Out of the 250 candidates scheduled to sit for the exam, 223 arrived and participated, demonstrating strong adherence to the examination timetable. The accreditation process began early in the morning at approximately 6:30 a.m., running smoothly for two hours before the examination proper commenced at 8:30 a.m. Reports indicate that the entire process was well-organized and efficient, with minimal disruptions.
However, during the verification phase, as highlighted by NTA News, one candidate could not be properly identified and was consequently not permitted to take the exam. This incident underscores the stringent security measures implemented by JAMB to ensure the integrity of the examination process. The centre is managing three sessions in total for the day, with an overall expectation of around 750 candidates participating across all sessions.
Timeline and Ongoing Preparations
The first session concluded at about 10:30 a.m., after which preparations and verification for the subsequent session immediately began. This swift transition highlights the coordinated efforts by JAMB and centre officials to maintain a seamless schedule throughout the examination period. Candidates are advised to arrive early for their sessions to facilitate timely accreditation and avoid any potential delays.
The nationwide rollout of the 2026 UTME reflects JAMB's commitment to providing a fair and transparent admission process for Nigerian students. As the examination continues over the coming days, stakeholders are encouraged to monitor updates from official sources to stay informed about any developments or changes.
