Lagos UTME Candidates Share Mixed Experiences as 2026 Exam Enters Fourth Day
Candidates participating in the 2026 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination in Lagos have provided detailed accounts of their experiences, with many praising the organization while expressing concerns about time constraints. As the nationwide examination enters its fourth day, observations from various computer-based test centers reveal a generally smooth process with some notable challenges.
Well-Organized Examination Process with Technical Stability
Across multiple examination centers in Lagos, candidates reported that the UTME administration proceeded without major disruptions. The biometric verification process functioned efficiently, and computer systems operated reliably throughout testing sessions. Power supply remained consistent at the centers visited, ensuring uninterrupted examination conditions.
Monitoring visits to prominent centers including the WAEC International Office in Ikeja, TimeOn Kairos Educational and Vocational Institute in Abule-Egba, and Lufem Oko-Oba confirmed that examination sessions commenced punctually. The first batch of candidates began testing at approximately 8:30 am, with subsequent sessions following at scheduled intervals throughout the day until the final batch concluded around 4:00 pm.
Parental Presence and Safety Considerations
A significant number of parents gathered around examination centers across Lagos and neighboring Ogun State communities. Many parents chose to accompany their children to testing locations due to safety concerns and the need to navigate early morning traffic in the metropolitan area.
Parents were observed waiting under trees and along building shades while their children completed the examination. Several parents explained that they felt compelled to ensure their wards reached examination centers safely, particularly those traveling from Ogun communities such as Sango-Ota, Akute, and Ifo.
Time Allocation Concerns Among Candidates
Despite the generally positive feedback about examination administration, numerous candidates expressed dissatisfaction with the time allocated for answering questions across four subjects. Many felt the duration proved insufficient for proper completion, especially in subjects requiring complex calculations or careful reading comprehension.
Candidates reported particular difficulty with Mathematics due to time pressure, while science students identified Chemistry as especially challenging within the constrained timeframe. The examination covers English Language, Mathematics, and relevant science or arts combinations based on each candidate's chosen course of study.
Examination Security and Monitoring Systems
Officials at various centers, who requested anonymity, confirmed that strict guidelines were enforced throughout the examination process. Candidates received comprehensive briefings on examination rules before registration and were prohibited from bringing certain items including wristwatches and earrings into testing halls.
Central surveillance systems monitored all examination activities, with officials emphasizing that any cheating attempts would be detected and penalized appropriately. One official stated, "Whoever cheated in the exam or aided cheating in whatever form would be detected and appropriately penalised for such action, and that is why no one will want to flout the rules."
Early Results and Examination Updates
Preliminary results from the first two days of testing have begun circulating, with reports indicating that some candidates achieved scores above 200 out of a possible 400 marks. The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board has confirmed the release of initial results while continuing to administer examinations across the country.
In related developments, JAMB officials announced the re-arrest of a suspected examination fraudster linked to schemes targeting UTME candidates. The suspect, Emmanuel Akataka, was taken back into custody after investigators determined he had resumed fraudulent activities shortly after securing bail, having previously operated under the false identity "Official Frederick" while promising illegal score manipulation services.
The 2026 UTME continues across Nigeria with Lagos candidates providing valuable feedback about both the strengths and areas for improvement in the examination process. As testing progresses, candidates and officials alike remain focused on maintaining examination integrity while addressing legitimate concerns about testing conditions.
