The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) has removed 23 Computer-Based Test (CBT) centres from its list of approved examination venues following the 2026 Mock Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME). The delisting was based on technical deficiencies identified during the mock exercise, according to a statement by JAMB's Public Communication Adviser, Dr Fabian Benjamin, released Friday in Abuja. One centre in Lagos State has been permanently barred from hosting any JAMB exams. The mock UTME is used to prepare candidates for the main exam and to assess the readiness of test centres. Benjamin stated that the affected centres failed to meet operational standards, and sanctions were applied to protect the integrity of the examination process. Candidates taking the main UTME are advised to remain calm, as adjustments will be made to prevent disruptions. Those with exams at delisted centres will be reassigned. JAMB also warned that centres given notice must fix issues immediately or face harsher penalties. Candidates are urged to print their examination slips to confirm their updated schedules and venues.
Nigerian students preparing for the 2026 UTME must now verify their exam centres carefully, as 23 CBT centres have been delisted and candidates previously assigned to them will be relocated. This disruption could affect preparation routines, especially for those who had already familiarised themselves with the original venues.
In a system where access to reliable CBT facilities remains uneven across states, JAMB's move highlights ongoing challenges in standardising exam conditions nationwide. While the purge aims to improve credibility, it also exposes the vulnerability of students to last-minute changes, particularly in areas with fewer accredited centres. This reinforces the need for JAMB to expand its network of compliant test centres, especially in underserved regions.
Affected candidates should print their updated examination slips immediately and confirm new venue details to avoid surprises on exam day.
