Prophet Abel Boma Forecasts 98% Success Rate for 2026 UTME Candidates
Prophet Abel Tamunominabo Boma of ATB Ministry has made a bold prediction for the 2026 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME), forecasting that 98% of candidates will achieve success, with many scoring 300 and above. In a post on his verified X account on Friday, February 27, the cleric stated that even examination officials will be surprised by the outstanding performance. This prophecy has instilled hope and confidence among Nigerian students as they prepare for this crucial entrance exam.
Positive Outlook for WASSCE 2026 as Well
Beyond the UTME, Prophet Boma extended his optimistic message to students gearing up for the 2026 West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE) for school candidates. He emphasized that many will succeed in the exams scheduled for May and June, reinforcing a wave of encouragement across the education sector. This dual forecast aims to strengthen families and uplift the academic community, highlighting a potential turning point in national examination outcomes.
JAMB Registration Closes with High Interest
Meanwhile, the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) has officially closed registration for the 2026 UTME, which began on January 26 and ended at midnight on February 26. Thousands of candidates have applied, with hundreds expressing interest in the optional mock UTME. This high turnout underscores the exam's significance as a gateway to universities, polytechnics, and colleges of education across Nigeria.
Context from Previous Years and Future Policies
In 2025, over 1.9 million candidates sat the UTME, with more than 70% scoring below 200, making Prophet Boma's prediction particularly noteworthy. Later in 2026, JAMB is expected to convene a policy meeting where tertiary institution heads will agree on the national minimum tolerable UTME score, commonly known as the cut-off mark. While each institution sets its preferred thresholds, they must adhere to a national minimum, with universities typically having different cut-offs than polytechnics and colleges of education.
JAMB's Warning Against Excessive Fees
In related news, JAMB has issued a stern warning against overcharging for UTME registration fees. The board urged candidates who paid above the approved rates to report such computer-based test centers with credible evidence. Any center found engaging in sharp practices will face sanctions, ensuring fairness and transparency in the examination process. This move aligns with efforts to maintain integrity and accessibility in Nigeria's education system.
