Police authorities have deployed a rapid response team to examination centres across Nigeria ahead of the 2026 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination conducted by the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board.
This comes as the Force debunked reports about threats to candidates’ safety describing it as unfounded.
In a statement on Tuesday, the spokesman of the Force, Anthony Placid said the police were aware of “recent unfounded rumours” about the safety of some centres in a North Central state, but stressed that the claims had no basis.
The statement reads: “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 noted.
He stressed that the police had taken proactive measures to ensure a secure environment for candidates sitting the examination 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 added that the police were working closely with other security agencies to monitor and respond to 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,” Placid stated.
The police image maker reassured candidates, parents and the general public of adequate protection throughout the examination period, urging candidates to comply with 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 the general public against spreading unverified information on social media, advising them to rely 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 said.
The 2026 UTME is slated to hold from Thursday, April 16, to Saturday, April 25, 2026
