2.2 Million Candidates Write JAMB 2026: See How E Dey Go So Far

Photo: The Punch

E don start o! The much-awaited UTME 2026 has kicked off nationwide, and as we speak, over 2.2 million candidates across Nigeria are busy clicking away at their CBT screens, hoping to secure admission into their dream institutions. From Lagos to Kano, Port Harcourt to Abuja, the atmosphere is tense but hopeful as students take their shot at university admission.

How Far With the Security Arrangement?

This year's UTME is not playing when it comes to security measures. JAMB has deployed serious security apparatus to ensure the exam runs smoothly without any wahala. From what we're seeing across the country, security operatives are stationed at various CBT centres, maintaining order and preventing any form of examination malpractice.

The security arrangement includes:

• Armed security personnel at strategic locations within and around test centres
• Advanced biometric verification systems to confirm candidates' identities
• CCTV monitoring systems capturing every movement in the examination halls
• Mobile phone jammers to prevent external communication during the exam
• Undercover operatives monitoring for suspicious activities

One candidate from Lagos State told us, "The security here no be joke o. They checked everything - from my wristwatch to my shoe laces. But honestly, it makes me feel safer knowing that nobody can cheat."

CBT System Performance: So Far So Good

Unlike previous years when system crashes and technical glitches nearly gave students and parents heart attacks, this year's CBT system is holding steady. The JAMB technical team seems to have learned from past experiences and implemented robust solutions.

Reports from across the country indicate that the majority of CBT centres are experiencing smooth operations. However, like every Nigerian system, small-small issues still dey happen here and there. Some centres in remote areas are dealing with power supply issues, but backup generators are keeping things moving.

A CBT centre operator in Abuja shared his experience: "We've been running for over 6 hours now without any major system failure. The servers are responding well, and candidates are completing their exams without technical interruptions."

Candidates' Real-Time Experiences

From the stories reaching us, this year's UTME candidates are having mixed but generally positive experiences. Many have praised the improved organization compared to previous years.

Blessing Adamu, an 18-year-old candidate from Kaduna, shared her experience: "I was so nervous this morning, but when I got to the centre, everything was well organized. The questions were not as difficult as I expected, and the system didn't hang on me like my friends warned me about."

However, not all stories are rosy. Some candidates have complained about long queues at certain centres, delayed start times, and air conditioning issues in packed examination halls. "The AC in my centre was not working properly, and with over 200 people in the hall, e just dey hot anyhow," complained Samuel Okafor from Enugu.

JAMB's Response to Emerging Issues

The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board has been quick to address issues as they arise. Their situation room is actively monitoring all centres nationwide and deploying rapid response teams where necessary.

According to JAMB officials, they have backup systems in place to handle any unexpected technical challenges. "We have learned from previous experiences and invested heavily in infrastructure upgrades to ensure a seamless examination process," stated a JAMB spokesperson.

What Parents Are Saying

Outside various CBT centres, anxious parents are keeping vigil, praying for their children's success. The general sentiment among parents this year is more optimistic compared to previous years.

Mrs. Patricia Okoro, whose daughter is writing the exam in Port Harcourt, expressed relief: "At least this year, we're not hearing stories of system crashes and students having to rewrite exams. That's progress for Nigeria."

States Leading in Smooth Operations

From our nationwide monitoring, states like Lagos, Abuja, Ogun, and Rivers are recording the smoothest operations with minimal technical hitches. These states have invested in better infrastructure and have more experienced CBT centre operators.

However, some northern states are still grappling with power supply issues and inadequate internet connectivity, though backup solutions are helping to minimize disruptions.

What This Means for Nigerian Education

The successful conduct of UTME 2026 so far represents a significant step forward for Nigeria's educational system. It shows that with proper planning, adequate investment in technology, and strong security measures, we can conduct large-scale examinations without the usual drama that characterized previous years.

As the examination continues across the country, we'll keep monitoring the situation and providing updates on how our students are faring. For now, the signs are encouraging, and we can only hope that this trend continues until the last candidate clicks the 'Submit' button.

We wish all 2.2 million candidates the very best in their examinations. May this be the beginning of their journey to academic excellence and a brighter future for our beloved Nigeria.