JAMB Announces Rescheduling Plan for UTME Candidates Affected by Technical Disruptions
The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board has officially confirmed that candidates who experienced technical disruptions during the ongoing 2026 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination will be rescheduled to sit for the examination at a later date. This announcement comes in response to numerous complaints from candidates across various computer-based test centers nationwide.
Addressing Nationwide Examination Challenges
JAMB's Public Communication Adviser, Fabian Benjamin, addressed concerns raised by parents and candidates regarding the technical issues that disrupted examination proceedings at several centers, including the Good Success Computer-Based Test centre in Utako, Abuja. Benjamin explained that occasional technical problems are expected in a nationwide exercise of this magnitude, but emphasized that the board has implemented comprehensive measures to ensure affected candidates are not disadvantaged.
"Naturally, you should anticipate one or two challenges here and there when conducting examinations across one thousand centers," Benjamin stated. "What matters most is our preparedness to handle these situations effectively, which is exactly what we have demonstrated. All impacted candidates will be rescheduled to write the examination at a later date, potentially at different centers."
Existing Mop-Up Arrangement Activated
The board revealed that it already operates a mop-up arrangement specifically designed to accommodate candidates who miss their examinations due to unforeseen circumstances. This established protocol ensures that all affected candidates receive another opportunity to complete their examinations without penalty or disadvantage.
JAMB officials emphasized that while disruptions have occurred, they are not widespread and are being handled promptly as they arise to prevent any systemic impact on the ongoing examination exercise. The board reiterated its commitment to fairness and equal access for all registered candidates, regardless of operational setbacks experienced at specific centers.
Senate Committee Oversight and Monitoring
During a monitoring visit to selected CBT centers, the Senate Committee on Tertiary Education and TETFund observed both progress and challenges in the examination process. Committee Chairman Mohammed Dandutse acknowledged the mixed results while affirming the National Assembly's commitment to providing continued oversight to ensure smooth conduct of the UTME nationwide.
"We have observed both progress and challenges during our monitoring exercise," Dandutse stated. "As part of our oversight responsibility, we will ensure these issues are addressed comprehensively and that centers operate efficiently moving forward."
Examination Scale and Additional Context
The 2026 UTME commenced on Thursday, April 16, with more than two million candidates participating across the country. This massive scale naturally presents logistical and technical challenges that require careful management and contingency planning.
In related developments, JAMB recently confirmed the re-arrest of a suspected examination fraudster, Emmanuel Akataka, who had resumed fraudulent activities shortly after securing bail. The suspect had allegedly operated under the false identity "Official Frederick" while running online platforms that promised candidates illegal score manipulation services.
The board's prompt response to both technical disruptions and examination malpractice demonstrates its ongoing commitment to maintaining the integrity of Nigeria's tertiary education admission process while ensuring equitable opportunities for all candidates.
