The Registrar of the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board, Prof. Ishaq Oloyede, has said the ongoing Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) has so far recorded only minimal challenges across Nigeria.
Oloyede made the statement on Saturday during a monitoring visit to Computer-Based Test (CBT) centres in Ibadan, including the University of Ibadan CBT centre.
According to him, the nationwide examination exercise has largely been successful, with only a few centres experiencing technical issues.
Only 16 Centres Reported Challenges
The JAMB registrar explained that out of about 980 CBT centres used for the examination nationwide, only around 16 centres recorded problems.
He noted that the issues were mainly related to electricity supply interruptions and minor technical faults.
According to Oloyede, such challenges are not unusual in an exercise of that scale.
He said:
“Like any human activity, there will be challenges, but they have been minimal. Out of about 980 centres nationwide, we have recorded issues in only about 16 centres.”
His comments are likely to reassure candidates, parents, and stakeholders who have expressed concerns over possible disruptions during the examination process.
Over 1.7 Million Candidates Examined in Three Days
Despite early concerns about logistics and scheduling, Oloyede disclosed that JAMB had successfully conducted examinations for more than 1.7 million candidates within three days.
He described the process as smooth and efficient, praising the cooperation received from institutions and officials involved in supervising the exams.
The registrar specifically commended vice-chancellors, rectors, and other academic leaders who served as proctors and support personnel during the exercise.
According to him, their collaboration contributed significantly to the success recorded so far.
Clarification on Early Arrival Time
Oloyede also addressed complaints from candidates and parents regarding early reporting times at CBT centres.
There had been widespread concerns over claims that candidates were expected to begin exams as early as 6:30 a.m.
However, the JAMB registrar clarified that examinations do not start at that time. Instead, candidates are required to arrive early for accreditation and verification before the commencement of the test.
He explained that JAMB had earlier adjusted the official start time from 8:00 a.m. to 8:30 a.m. following public feedback.
According to him, while the adjustment was made to improve convenience, it also resulted in longer waiting times in some centres.
Oloyede Speaks on Kidnap Reports
Reacting to reports alleging that some candidates were kidnapped while traveling for the examination, Oloyede urged the public and media to avoid spreading unverified information.
He described it as unfortunate if such incidents occurred, but cautioned against directly linking them to JAMB without clear evidence.
According to him, doing so could distract attention from security efforts aimed at rescuing victims and ensuring public safety.
He said the priority should remain the safe return of anyone reportedly abducted.
UTME Is Only One Requirement for Admission
The registrar also used the opportunity to correct what he described as widespread misconceptions about the role of the UTME in tertiary institution admissions.
He stressed that the examination is only one part of the admission process and does not automatically guarantee admission.
According to Oloyede, candidates must also meet other important requirements, including O’Level results and institution-specific criteria.
This clarification comes as many students continue to place heavy emphasis on UTME scores alone.
Strong Warning Against Exam Fraud and “Runs”
Oloyede issued a fresh warning to candidates and parents against engaging fraudsters who promise to manipulate scores or provide “exam runs.”
He said JAMB has strengthened its monitoring systems and is actively tracking individuals and groups involved in examination malpractice.
According to him, several suspects are already being prosecuted for related offences.
The registrar cited a case where a suspect, despite being in custody, allegedly continued to defraud parents by claiming he could upgrade candidates’ scores.
He warned that anyone attempting to cheat the system would eventually be identified and sanctioned.
“We have our own mechanisms to detect such fraud. Those who attempt shortcuts will be identified and sanctioned.”
Public Asked to Report Fraudulent Platforms
Oloyede further urged members of the public to report suspicious websites, social media accounts, and online platforms claiming to offer illegal assistance during the UTME.
He praised security agencies for supporting JAMB in its efforts to curb examination malpractice and maintain the credibility of the process.
According to him, collaboration between the board, law enforcement agencies, and the public remains critical in protecting the integrity of national examinations.
JAMB Reaffirms Commitment to Credible Admissions
The registrar concluded by reaffirming JAMB’s commitment to ensuring transparent examinations and credible admissions into tertiary institutions across Nigeria.
With over 1.7 million candidates already examined and only minimal disruptions reported, the board appears confident that the 2026 UTME process is progressing successfully.
As the examinations continue nationwide, candidates have been advised to rely only on official information, avoid shortcuts, and focus on legitimate preparation.
