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JAMB to Accredit 1,039 CBT Centres for 2026 UTME |
JAMB to accredit 1,039 CBT centres for 2026 UTME nationwide. Learn what this means for candidates, centres, and exam integrity.
The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) has announced plans to accredit 1,039 CBT centres for the 2026 UTME, reinforcing its commitment to credible and malpractice-free examinations. This move is expected to improve exam quality, security, and fairness for candidates across Nigeria.
If you’re preparing for the 2026 UTME or operate a CBT centre, this update is one you shouldn’t ignore.
Overview of the 2026 UTME CBT Centre Accreditation
JAMB disclosed this development during an ongoing nationwide accreditation exercise. According to the board, the process is designed to ensure that only centres meeting strict technical and operational standards are approved for the 2026 UTME.
Why JAMB Conducts Annual Accreditation
Past approval does not guarantee future eligibility. Each CBT centre must meet updated requirements every year to remain active.
Key objectives include:
- Maintaining exam integrity
- Eliminating weak or compromised centres
- Ensuring a smooth experience for UTME candidates
Nationwide Inspection and Re-Accreditation Process
Deployment of Accreditation Teams
JAMB deployed 52 examination teams across Nigeria to inspect, re-accredit, or delist CBT centres that fail to meet required standards.
According to JAMB Registrar, Prof. Is’haq Oloyede, the process has been largely successful, with only a few previously sanctioned centres attempting to reappear under new identities.
Strong Measures Against Exam Malpractice
Blocking Blacklisted CBT Centre Operators
To curb malpractice, JAMB has strengthened collaboration with the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC). Directors of blacklisted CBT centres are now tracked using verified details, including their National Identification Number (NIN).
This means:
- Operators of failed centres cannot resurface elsewhere
- Directors linked to malpractice are permanently barred
You can learn more about JAMB’s regulatory framework on the official JAMB website:
https://www.jamb.gov.ng
Permanent Ban on Compromised Staff and Equipment
JAMB has also taken firm action against individuals and equipment linked to malpractice.
What Has Been Banned Permanently
- Staff and proctors previously implicated in exam fraud
- Computers used in delisted CBT centres
- Any centre attempting to reuse blacklisted systems
Once flagged, such equipment can never be approved again—even if sold to another centre.
CBT Centre Accreditation Requirements Explained
Hard (Technical) Requirements
According to accreditation officials, centres must meet key technical standards, including:
- Approved network topology for fast troubleshooting
- Reliable backup power (generators and inverters)
- Secure systems that meet JAMB’s CBT specifications
Soft (Operational) Requirements
Centres are also assessed on:
- Adequate waiting and holding areas
- Functional toilet facilities
- CCTV cameras for monitoring
Details on CBT centre standards can also be found via the National Universities Commission (NUC):
https://www.nuc.edu.ng
Warning to UTME Candidates
Education stakeholders have issued strong warnings to candidates against exam malpractice. Any form of cheating leads to permanent consequences, including disqualification and future exam bans.
Candidates are advised to:
- Prepare honestly
- Avoid shortcuts or fraudulent assistance
- Use only accredited CBT centres
For official exam updates and guidelines, candidates should rely on verified platforms such as The PUNCH Nigeria education desk:
https://punchng.com/topics/education/
What This Means for 2026 UTME Candidates
The accreditation of 1,039 CBT centres ensures:
- Better exam security
- Fair assessment nationwide
- Reduced chances of technical failures
Ultimately, this move strengthens confidence in the 2026 UTME process.
Final Thoughts and Next Steps
JAMB’s decision to accredit only qualified CBT centres for the 2026 UTME shows its zero tolerance for malpractice and inefficiency. Candidates and centre operators alike must comply strictly with the board’s standards.
CTA (In-content): Preparing for UTME? Always confirm that your chosen centre is officially accredited before registration.
Final CTA:
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