THE Nigeria Police Force has intensified security arrangements across examination centres nationwide ahead of the 2026 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME), conducted by the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB), assuring candidates of their safety throughout the exercise.
This comes as the police dismissed circulating rumours suggesting threats to candidates’ safety, describing such claims as unfounded and without any factual basis.
In a statement sent to News Point Nigeria on Tuesday, the Force Public Relations Officer, Anthony Placid, said the police were aware of “recent unfounded rumours” concerning the safety of some examination centres in a North Central state, but emphasised that the reports were baseless.
“The Nigeria Police Force wishes to categorically state that these claims are without basis.
“While the NPF does not act on rumours, the concerns raised by members of the public have been duly noted as it concerns the safety, education and future of our children and wards,” the statement read.
He explained that the police had already taken proactive steps to ensure a safe and secure environment for candidates participating in the examination, which is scheduled to commence on Thursday.
“To this end, extra security has been deployed at examination centres nationwide, both overtly and covertly, to prevent any untoward incidents.
“This includes routine patrols, perimeter checks, and rapid response teams stationed at strategic locations,” the statement added.
Placid further disclosed that the Nigeria Police Force is working in close collaboration with other security agencies to monitor developments and respond swiftly to any potential threats.
“The Nigeria Police Force is collaborating closely with sister security agencies to monitor and address potential threats effectively.
“Any individual or group attempting to disrupt the examination process will be swiftly identified and brought to justice,” he stated.
Reassuring candidates, parents, and the general public, the police spokesperson emphasised that adequate protection measures have been put in place for the entire duration of the examination, urging candidates to strictly adhere to guidelines.
“Candidates are encouraged to arrive early at their centres, adhere to examination regulations, and report any suspicious activities or persons to on-site security personnel,” he said.
He also warned against the spread of unverified information, particularly on social media platforms, urging the public to rely only on official updates from the police and JAMB.
“The Force remains committed to maintaining peace, security, and public confidence in all national activities, including the JAMB examinations,” he added.
The 2026 UTME is scheduled to hold nationwide from Thursday, April 16, to Saturday, April 25, 2026.