JAMB 2026: Students and Parents Voice Safety Fears Over Exam Postings in Plateau State
Students and parents in Jos, Plateau State, have raised significant alarm regarding safety concerns ahead of the forthcoming Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) examinations scheduled for 2026. The anxiety stems from recent security challenges across the state, particularly in areas where candidates have been assigned to sit for the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME).
Heightened Anxiety Over Volatile Postings
Recent attacks in Plateau State communities have intensified fears among candidates posted to what are considered volatile regions. Students and their families are questioning how their safety will be guaranteed during the examination period, which is set to run from April 25 to May 5, 2026.
One candidate, Afodia Joseph, expressed deep concern about her posting to Bokkos, describing the area as unstable due to recent incidents. "I am anxious about travelling to and writing my examination in the community," she stated, highlighting the personal distress faced by many.
Similarly, John Lazarus, another candidate, voiced worries over being assigned to a centre in the Katako area. He noted that the prevailing security situation has left him uncertain about the level of protection available to candidates, adding to the stress of exam preparation.
Parents and Stakeholders Call for Action
Parents have also joined in expressing their fears, urging authorities to prioritize the safety of candidates. Mrs. Roseline Moses emphasized that the welfare of students must come first, especially in regions with known security challenges. This collective concern has prompted calls for JAMB to review its posting strategy to protect candidates and ensure the smooth conduct of the exams.
The Chairman of the National Association of Proprietors of Private Schools (NAPPS), Jos North LGA Chapter, Alhaji Abdullahi Salihu Malami, has formally called on JAMB to urgently reassess its candidate posting approach. Malami explained that candidates have been posted to distant and, in some cases, security-sensitive areas such as:
- Bassa
- Bokkos
- Riyom
- Mangu
- Barkin Ladi
- Jos North
- Jos South
He warned that this has not only increased anxiety among parents but also imposed extra transportation and financial burdens, while exposing candidates to potential risks. "The situation could lead to lateness, absenteeism, and poor performance," Malami cautioned, noting that candidates are required to report to centres as early as 6:30 a.m., which adds to logistical and safety challenges.
Urgent Review Needed for Safe Exam Conduct
Malami urged JAMB to engage more with stakeholders and faith-based groups to ensure candidates are assigned to safe and accessible centres. Efforts to reach officials of the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board for comments were unsuccessful at the time of reporting, leaving parents and stakeholders in a state of uncertainty.
As the exam dates approach, the calls for urgent action grow louder. Stakeholders emphasize that protecting candidates is paramount to maintaining the integrity and fairness of the examination process. The situation underscores broader issues of security and accessibility in educational assessments across Nigeria.
In light of these concerns, it is crucial for authorities to address these safety issues promptly. Ensuring a secure environment for all candidates will not only alleviate fears but also contribute to better performance and a smoother administration of the 2026 UTME.
