UTME begins nationwide amid minor hitches, tight security

At Lavogue British International School CBT Centre, Kurudu, Abuja, and Airmax Computer Institute, Madalla, Niger State, administrators reported smooth conduct and timely participation by candidates. However, at Skillpath International Academy, Karu, Abuja, some candidates experienced brief delays linked to malfunctioning systems and late uploading of questions.

JAMB’s General Monitor Group Representative, Mrs Nnenna Akajemeli, attributed the disruption at the Karu centre to faulty systems, saying affected candidates would be rescheduled to ensure fairness. She warned that centres must comply strictly with operational standards, including the provision of backup systems, or face sanctions.

Read Also: Nigerian TikToker Ashley Keno gains global attention

The centre owner, Mr Alphonsus Ekpenyong, however, insisted the facility met JAMB’s requirements.

JAMB’s Public Communication Advisor, Dr. Fabian Benjamin, said the results of the examination would be released after the exercise.

Also, police commands in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Lagos, Kogi, and Enugu states have deployed personnel and operational resources to CBT centres to ensure a peaceful and hitch-free examination.

In Lagos, Police Commissioner Fatai Tijani promised enhanced security coverage following orders in line with the directives of the Inspector General (IGP) Olatunji Rilwan Disu. He said personnel, operational and intelligence assets have been deployed to all approved examination centres to ensure a safe and orderly conduct of the examination.

Officers assigned to the operation were instructed to maintain professionalism, vigilance, and to take firm action against examination malpractice, disorderly conduct and any security breach. They are also to work with other security agencies to secure examination venues, adjoining areas and access routes.

The commissioner urged candidates, parents and the public to cooperate with security personnel and comply with examination guidelines, while reaffirming the command’s commitment to safeguarding lives and property.

FCT police boss, Ahmed Sanusi, inspected centres across Abuja, assuring supervisors of adequate security. He warned that any attempt to disrupt the process would be decisively handled.

Similarly, the Kogi State Police Command said officers and intelligence assets were strategically deployed to centres and surrounding areas to prevent security breaches.

In Enugu State, CP Mamman Bitrus Giwa also ordered comprehensive security coverage of examination venues and access routes, directing operatives to maintain vigilance and professionalism throughout the exercise.