By DAYO ADESULU
The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) has issued a firm reminder to prospective candidates that registration for the 2026 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) will close in exactly 17 days, on Thursday, February 26, 2026.
The Board made it clear that the registration deadline will not be extended under any circumstance.
Warning Against Last-Minute Rush
JAMB expressed concern over the low turnout at many accredited registration centres at this stage of the exercise, noting a recurring pattern where candidates delay registration until the final days and later agitate for an extension.
The Board disclosed that some examination cheats and individuals posing as tutorial centre operators deliberately advise candidates to delay registration as part of schemes to facilitate malpractice.
“These antics are well known to the Board and have been factored into our planning,” JAMB stated.
One Million Candidates Already Registered
JAMB revealed that about one million candidates have already indicated interest in the 2026 UTME, with many having procured their ePINs and expected to complete registration without delay.
The Board explained that extending the registration period would disrupt its tightly coordinated operational calendar with other national examination bodies.
Candidates were therefore advised to register promptly, avoid last-minute rushes, and disregard any claims suggesting an extension.
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