The Nigeria Police Force and the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board have dismissed concerns over the safety of examination centres ahead of the 2026 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME), assuring candidates of adequate security nationwide.
At a joint press briefing monitored by The Nigeria Education News, the Force Public Relations Officer, Anthony Placid, described circulating reports about insecurity in parts of North Central Nigeria as unfounded.
He noted that while the police do not act on rumours, concerns raised by the public were taken seriously, particularly as they relate to the safety and future of students.
Placid said the police had taken proactive measures, in collaboration with other security agencies, to ensure that all candidates can sit for the examination without fear.
“We wish to categorically state that these claims are without basis… every measure has been taken to ensure the safety of all candidates,” he said.
Also speaking, JAMB’s spokesperson, Fabian Benjamin, commended security agencies for their support in securing the examination process.
He assured candidates that necessary arrangements had been made to guarantee a smooth and safe examination nationwide.
Benjamin clarified that candidates are expected to report at their examination centres by 7:00 a.m., noting that the examination will commence at 8:30 a.m.
He further advised candidates and the public to report any credible security concerns to the nearest police station.
The briefing, which was attended virtually by The Nigeria Education News, comes as preparations intensify for the nationwide UTME, with authorities emphasising safety and coordination.
