JAMB Announces Revised UTME Schedule for Jos Amid Plateau State Curfew
The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board has implemented a significant adjustment to the 2026 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination timetable specifically for candidates in Jos, Plateau State. This last-minute change comes as a direct response to ongoing security measures in the region.
Revised Examination Start Time
Under the new arrangement, the UTME in Jos will now commence at 9:00 AM instead of the previously scheduled 8:30 AM. This adjustment affects all candidates scheduled to take their examinations between April 16 and April 25, 2026. The decision was made following extensive consultations with security agencies and local stakeholders in Plateau State.
JAMB spokesperson Benjamin Fabian explained the rationale behind this change during a briefing at the Force Headquarters in Abuja. "The adjustment was necessary to ensure candidates do not leave their homes during curfew hours," Fabian stated. He emphasized that the primary concern was protecting examinees from potential risks associated with early morning movement during restricted periods.
Security Coordination and Assurance
The board has engaged in comprehensive discussions with multiple security agencies, including the Nigeria Police Force, to ensure adequate protection throughout the examination period. Force Public Relations Officer, DCP Anthony Placid, confirmed that additional security personnel have been deployed both overtly and covertly to examination centers across the state.
"Extra security has been put in place to prevent any untoward incidents," Placid assured. He urged candidates to remain calm, follow official instructions, and avoid spreading unverified information that could create unnecessary panic. Authorities have dismissed circulating reports of specific threats targeting candidates as false, maintaining that the security situation remains under control.
Stakeholder Collaboration and Future Considerations
JAMB officials revealed that the board consulted with religious leaders and community representatives in Jos before finalizing the timetable adjustment. These discussions focused on ensuring smooth coordination of the examination process while prioritizing candidate safety.
The board is also engaged in ongoing conversations with relevant authorities regarding a potential review of the curfew hours to further facilitate movement during the examination period. Officials stressed that their primary objective is to ensure candidates are not disadvantaged by security restrictions while maintaining public safety standards.
Examination Guidelines Remain Strict
Despite the schedule adjustment, JAMB maintains its strict examination protocols. The board recently reiterated its list of banned items from UTME halls, emphasizing that only an HB pencil and examination slip will be permitted into Computer-Based Test centers. Candidates found with unauthorized materials face immediate disqualification.
Rapid response teams have been positioned across key routes in Plateau State to address any incidents promptly. The Nigeria Police Force has reassured residents and candidates that comprehensive security measures are in place to ensure the examination proceeds without disruption.
This timetable modification represents JAMB's proactive approach to balancing educational administration with security considerations in regions experiencing temporary restrictions. The board continues to monitor the situation closely and may implement further adjustments if security conditions evolve during the examination period.
