JAMB Completes Automation of UTME Question-Setting Process for 2026
The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) has successfully finalized the automation of its digital question-setting process for the 2026 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME). This milestone marks the culmination of a decade-long effort to modernize examination procedures, as confirmed by JAMB Registrar, Prof. Ishaq Oloyede.
Final Phase of Automation Implemented
Prof. Oloyede announced this development on Tuesday, February 24, 2026, during a training program for test developers held at the University of Ibadan. He emphasized that this tenth and final phase focuses on automating the authoring of questions, enabling authors to set questions remotely from various locations without the need for travel across Nigeria.
"We are here at the University of Ibadan to do the last round of our automation process. This phase is about automating the authoring of questions. Our authors can now set questions from their various locations without having to travel across the country," Oloyede stated.
He highlighted that this initiative will streamline the process, making it more efficient, cost-effective, and less tedious while enhancing security measures. Adequate checks and balances have been implemented to ensure the integrity of the system, safeguarding against potential breaches.
Expansion of CBT Centers and Registration Update
In related updates, JAMB has significantly expanded its Computer-Based Test (CBT) centers from approximately 800 in 2025 to over 1,000 in 2026. This expansion aims to facilitate seamless registration and examination experiences for candidates. As of the announcement, about two million candidates have registered for the 2026 UTME, surpassing last year's figures at the same time.
Prof. Oloyede issued a reminder that pin vending ends on February 26, 2026, with no extensions planned. Candidates who have obtained their pins are urged to complete their registration before this deadline to avoid disqualification.
Warning Against Examination Malpractice
The registrar issued a stern warning to candidates and parents against engaging in examination malpractice or seeking shortcuts. He stressed that JAMB is closely monitoring the system and will apprehend anyone attempting to subvert it.
"There is no shortcut to education. We are monitoring the system closely and those attempting to subvert it will be apprehended," Oloyede warned, underscoring the board's commitment to maintaining examination integrity.
Background on Registration Platforms
Prospective candidates for the 2026 UTME and Direct Entry are advised to purchase their ePINs through approved Interswitch platforms, such as Quickteller and the Interswitch Payment Gateway on JAMB's official portal. JAMB-accredited centers should guide candidates to these authorized payment channels to ensure a smooth process.
Political Context and Criticisms
Amid these developments, opposition leader Peter Obi has criticized JAMB over alleged chaotic registration processes affecting students nationwide. He called for swift action to prevent candidates from missing exams due to system failures. JAMB, however, continues to monitor CBT centers live to uphold integrity, addressing past infractions with sanctions as necessary.
This comprehensive update from JAMB reflects ongoing efforts to enhance the UTME experience through technological advancements and expanded infrastructure, while firmly addressing challenges related to malpractice and registration efficiency.
