The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board has commenced preparations for the 2026 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination with plans to accredit 1,039 Computer Based Test centres across Nigeria. The exercise is part of the Board’s annual effort to ensure that examination centres used for UTME meet required standards and can deliver a smooth and credible testing process for candidates nationwide.
Officials of the Board confirmed that dozens of accreditation teams have been deployed to various states to inspect CBT centres seeking approval for the 2026 examination. Both newly established centres and those that hosted previous UTME sessions are undergoing assessment, as prior accreditation does not guarantee automatic approval. Each centre is required to prove that it still meets current technical and operational benchmarks set by JAMB.
The Registrar of JAMB, Professor Is’haq Oloyede, has reiterated that the accreditation exercise is essential for maintaining the integrity of the UTME. He explained that the Board continually reviews its standards to address challenges such as technical failures, security concerns, and examination malpractice. Centres that fall short during the inspection process will be excluded from hosting the 2026 examination, regardless of their performance in earlier years.
During the inspection, CBT centres are assessed on the quality of their computer systems, network stability, and availability of reliable power supply. Inspectors also examine security arrangements, including surveillance systems, and the overall condition of the examination environment. Adequate seating, proper ventilation, and orderly candidate management are among the factors considered before approval is granted.
JAMB has also strengthened its stance against malpractice by introducing stricter controls on centre operators and examination personnel. Individuals associated with centres previously sanctioned for malpractice are being prevented from returning to the system. The Board has further stated that computers used in disqualified centres will remain permanently barred from UTME use, even if transferred to other facilities.
Candidates preparing for the 2026 UTME are expected to benefit from this accreditation process, as it is aimed at improving reliability and fairness during the examination. After the exercise is completed, JAMB will publish the list of approved CBT centres, which candidates must choose from during registration. The Board has advised candidates to remain alert and ensure they register only at officially accredited centres to avoid complications.
The planned accreditation of 1,039 CBT centres highlights JAMB’s continued commitment to strengthening the examination system and delivering a more secure, efficient, and transparent UTME experience for all candidates.
Last Updated on January 15, 2026 by Ola Funmilayo
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