The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board has commenced a nationwide accreditation exercise for Computer-Based Test centres in preparation for the 2026 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination, marking the official start of early arrangements for the next admission cycle.
The exercise, which is being conducted across all states of the federation, is aimed at ensuring that only centres that meet JAMB’s prescribed technical, security and operational standards are allowed to conduct the 2026 UTME. The Board said the move is part of its ongoing reforms to strengthen examination integrity and improve the overall experience for candidates.
According to JAMB, hundreds of CBT centres, including existing facilities seeking revalidation and new applicants, are currently undergoing assessment. The process combines automated system testing with on-site physical inspection, a method the Board says allows for a more accurate evaluation of each centre’s readiness.
Speaking during a coordination briefing with key stakeholders, JAMB Registrar, Professor Is-haq Oloyede, stressed that the credibility of the UTME depends largely on the quality of centres used for the examination. He urged accreditation teams to carry out their duties with diligence and impartiality, warning that no centre should be approved if it falls short of established standards, regardless of ownership or location.
The Registrar also underscored the importance of professionalism throughout the exercise, noting that public confidence in the UTME is tied to the transparency and thoroughness of the accreditation process.
The accreditation exercise is being coordinated by JAMB’s national headquarters in collaboration with zonal and state offices. Chief External Examiners, Chief Technical Advisors, Zonal Directors, State Coordinators and technical officers are actively involved, alongside professionals from the information technology sector who provide technical oversight.
JAMB explained that the first stage of accreditation involves an automated readiness test designed to assess system capacity, network stability and compatibility with the Board’s examination software. Only centres that successfully pass this stage are cleared for physical inspection.
During physical inspections, teams assess critical infrastructure, including computer systems, servers, power supply arrangements and surveillance equipment. Particular emphasis is placed on security features, with centres required to have functional, hard-wired closed-circuit television systems capable of providing full coverage of examination halls. Network devices are also expected to be supported by uninterrupted power supply units to prevent disruptions during examinations.
Officials noted that these measures are aimed at curbing examination malpractice, improving real-time monitoring and ensuring uniform examination conditions nationwide.
JAMB has also drawn attention to the safety of accreditation teams, especially those traveling to remote locations. Inspectors have been advised to remain security-conscious while carrying out their assignments, as the Board continues to work with relevant agencies to ensure the smooth conduct of the exercise.
For prospective candidates, the commencement of CBT centre accreditation is seen as a strong indication that preparations for the 2026 UTME are already underway. Although the Board has yet to announce official registration and examination dates, the early start to accreditation suggests a deliberate effort to avoid last-minute challenges.
Education stakeholders believe the ongoing exercise will translate into improved examination conditions, reduced technical failures and a more credible UTME process when the 2026 examination eventually holds.
