The Nigeria Police Force has announced the deployment of special security teams across the country ahead of the 2026 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME), in a move aimed at ensuring the safety of candidates and the smooth conduct of the nationwide exercise.
The examination, organised by the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board, is scheduled to take place from Thursday, April 16, to Saturday, April 25, 2026, with hundreds of thousands of candidates expected to participate.
In a statement released on Tuesday, the Force Public Relations Officer, Anthony Placid, said the police had taken proactive steps to provide adequate security at all examination centres nationwide.
He explained that the decision followed concerns raised by members of the public over alleged threats to the safety of candidates, particularly in parts of the North Central region. However, he stressed that such claims were not supported by any credible evidence.
“The Nigeria Police Force wishes to categorically state that these claims are without basis,” Placid said, adding that while the police do not act on rumours, they take public concerns seriously, especially when they relate to the safety and future of young Nigerians.
According to him, the police have deployed both uniformed and plainclothes officers to examination centres across the country. These officers will carry out routine patrols, monitor activities within and around the centres, and respond quickly to any security challenges.
He noted that rapid response teams have also been stationed at strategic locations to ensure that any incident is handled without delay. In addition, security personnel will conduct perimeter checks to prevent unauthorised access to examination venues.
The police spokesperson further disclosed that the Force is working closely with other security agencies to strengthen surveillance and intelligence gathering during the examination period. This collaboration, he said, is aimed at detecting and stopping any potential threats before they escalate.
“Any individual or group attempting to disrupt the examination process will be swiftly identified and brought to justice,” Placid warned.
He reassured candidates, parents and school authorities that the police are fully prepared to maintain law and order throughout the examination period. He also urged candidates to follow all examination guidelines and cooperate with security personnel at their centres.
Candidates were advised to arrive early at their designated centres to avoid unnecessary delays and to remain vigilant at all times. Placid encouraged them to report any suspicious movement or individuals to security officers on ground.
He also cautioned members of the public against spreading unverified information, especially on social media platforms. According to him, false information can create panic and disrupt well-organised activities like national examinations.
Instead, he advised Nigerians to rely on official communication from the police and the examination body for accurate updates.
“The Force remains committed to maintaining peace, security, and public confidence in all national activities, including the JAMB examinations,” he said.
The UTME is one of the most important examinations in Nigeria’s education system. Conducted annually by JAMB, it serves as a gateway for admission into universities, polytechnics and colleges of education across the country.
Over the years, the examination has faced several challenges, including cases of malpractice, technical issues, and security concerns in certain areas. These challenges have often led to anxiety among candidates and their families.
In recent times, authorities have introduced various measures to improve the credibility and safety of the examination process. These include the use of computer-based testing, biometric verification, and increased collaboration with security agencies.
Parents and guardians have also welcomed the police assurance, noting that safety remains a top priority, especially given the large number of young people involved in the exercise.
Some candidates who spoke to reporters expressed relief at the increased security presence, saying it would help them focus better on their exams without fear.
“I feel more confident knowing that security has been taken seriously,” said a candidate preparing to sit for the examination in Abuja. “It allows us to concentrate on our studies instead of worrying about safety.”
Another candidate in Lagos said the warning against spreading rumours was important, as false information can easily create confusion among students.
As the examination begins, all eyes will be on how effectively the security measures are implemented across the country. Observers say that a peaceful and well-organised UTME will boost public confidence in both the education system and security agencies.
The police have reiterated their commitment to protecting lives and property, not just during the examination period but in all national activities. They highlighted that safeguarding the future of young Nigerians remains a shared responsibility.
With the deployment of additional personnel and the collaboration of multiple security agencies, authorities are hopeful that the 2026 UTME will proceed without any major incidents.
For now, candidates are advised to stay focused, follow instructions, and make the most of the opportunity, as the examination marks an important step toward their academic and professional goals.