JAMB Kicks Off Accreditation Process for CBT Centres Ahead of 2026 UTME

The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) has officially launched the accreditation exercise for examination centres. This initiative is in preparation for the 2026 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME). A comprehensive nationwide assessment covering 848 Computer-Based Test (CBT) centres was initiated on Monday, December 15, 2025.

Official Announcement from JAMB Leadership

According to JAMB’s Weekly Bulletin issued on Monday, Professor Is-haq Oloyede made this disclosure. The Registrar shared this information during a virtual meeting with various stakeholders. These stakeholders included Chief External Examiners (CEEs), Chief Technical Advisors (CTAs), and Zonal Directors. Additionally, State Coordinators, representatives from the Computer Professionals Association of Nigeria (CPAN), and various technical officers participated.

The meeting brought together ZITOs, SITOs, PITOs, and other critical stakeholders. Furthermore, the session addressed important matters regarding the upcoming accreditation process.

Key Directives to Accreditation Teams

Professor Oloyede emphasized the importance of diligence throughout the exercise. He urged all accreditation team members to approach their assignment with utmost focus. Moreover, he reminded them about the significant implications of their decisions.

The Registrar described this exercise as a fundamental national duty. Consequently, he cautioned the teams against approving centres that fail to meet standards. Only facilities that fully comply with the Board’s requirements should be approved.

Additionally, Professor Oloyede advised teams to maintain security consciousness during their operations. He instructed them to avoid unnecessary risks throughout the process. Teams were also told to limit movements that could expose them to danger. However, he assured everyone that adequate security arrangements had been established. These measures were put in place to ensure a smooth and safe exercise.

Technical Requirements for CBT Centre Qualification

Mr. Damilola Bamiro, the Board’s IT Consultant, provided detailed technical information. He explained that only specific centres would undergo physical inspection. The exercise is restricted to facilities that completed the mandatory automated test. This test was designed to assess system readiness effectively.

Only centres that successfully passed this preliminary assessment would qualify. Therefore, they would then be eligible for the physical inspection phase.

Specific CCTV System Requirements

The accreditation teams have been instructed to pay special attention to certain features. Particularly, the coverage and configuration of CCTV systems will be scrutinized carefully.

These surveillance systems must meet specific technical standards. First, they must be hard-wired rather than wireless. Second, centres must use the HIKVision brand exclusively. Third, the system must have the recommended 16 channels configured properly.

Moreover, all network switches must be connected to an Uninterruptible Power Supply (UPS). This requirement ensures continuous operation during power interruptions.

Implications for 2026 UTME Registration

Following this announcement, the JAMB 2026 UTME registration is expected to commence soon. Therefore, prospective UTME candidates should begin their preparations immediately.

Students are strongly advised to utilize available preparation resources. Specifically, they should start using the JAMB CBT software for practice. Additionally, the JAMB CBT app provides convenient mobile access for studying.

Opportunities for Training Centre Operators

Entrepreneurs interested in educational services have exciting opportunities available. Those who wish to establish JAMB CBT training centres can now participate. Similarly, individuals interested in reselling the JAMB CBT training software are welcome.

These interested parties should key into the JAMB CBT Agent/Re-seller programme. This programme offers excellent business potential in the education sector.

Preparing for Success in 2026 UTME

Candidates must take their preparation seriously from this moment forward. Regular practice using approved CBT software is highly recommended. Furthermore, familiarizing yourself with the examination format will boost confidence significantly.

Students should also ensure they have all necessary documentation ready. This proactive approach will facilitate smooth registration when it opens.

Thank you for taking the time to read this comprehensive article about JAMB’s accreditation process for the 2026 UTME. We appreciate your interest in staying informed about important educational developments. If you have any questions or concerns regarding the information shared in this article, please feel free to ask in the comments section below. Additionally, we encourage you to share this valuable information with friends and classmates who might benefit from it. We wish you the very best of luck in your upcoming examinations and academic pursuits!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: When did JAMB commence the accreditation of CBT centres for 2026 UTME?

A: JAMB began the accreditation exercise on Monday, December 15, 2025. The nationwide assessment covers 848 Computer-Based Test centres across Nigeria.

Q2: How many CBT centres are scheduled for accreditation?

A: A total of 848 Computer-Based Test (CBT) centres are scheduled for assessment. These centres are distributed across various states in Nigeria.

Q3: What are the specific CCTV requirements for accredited centres?

A: CCTV systems must be hard-wired and use the HIKVision brand. They must have 16 channels configured properly. All network switches must be connected to an Uninterruptible Power Supply (UPS).

Q4: Who participated in the virtual meeting where this announcement was made?

A: The meeting included Chief External Examiners, Chief Technical Advisors, and Zonal Directors. State Coordinators, CPAN representatives, ZITOs, SITOs, PITOs, and other stakeholders also participated.

Q5: What preliminary test must centres pass before physical inspection?

A: Centres must successfully complete a mandatory automated test that assesses system readiness. Only centres passing this test qualify for physical inspection.

Q6: When will JAMB 2026 UTME registration commence?

A: The exact date has not been announced yet. However, registration is expected to commence soon following the completion of CBT centre accreditation.

Q7: What resources should prospective candidates use for preparation?

A: Candidates should utilize the JAMB CBT software and JAMB CBT app. These tools help students familiarize themselves with the examination format and practice effectively.

Q8: Can individuals establish JAMB CBT training centres?

A: Yes, individuals interested in setting up training centres can participate. They should join the JAMB CBT Agent/Re-seller programme for this opportunity.

Q9: What did Professor Oloyede emphasize to accreditation teams?

A: He urged teams to approach the assignment with focus, diligence, and thoroughness. He also cautioned against approving centres that don’t meet the Board’s standards.

Q10: What security measures have been put in place for the accreditation exercise?

A: Professor Oloyede assured that adequate security arrangements have been established. These measures ensure a smooth and safe accreditation exercise for all teams involved.