The Nigeria Police Force has deployed rapid response teams to examination centers nationwide ahead of the 2026 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination conducted by the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board.
In a statement on Tuesday, Force Public Relations Officer Anthony Placid dismissed circulating rumors about threats to candidates’ safety as unfounded.
“The Nigeria Police Force wishes to categorically state that these claims are without basis,” the statement said.
Placid said the police were aware of “recent unfounded rumors” concerning the safety of some centers in a North Central state but emphasized that the claims lacked credibility. He added that while the force does not act on rumors, concerns raised by the public had been noted, particularly regarding the safety and future of candidates.
He said the police had taken proactive steps to ensure a secure environment for the examination, scheduled to begin Thursday.
“Extra security has been deployed at examination centers nationwide, both overtly and covertly, to prevent any untoward incidents,” he said, noting that measures include routine patrols, perimeter checks and the positioning of rapid response teams at strategic locations.
Placid added that the police are working with other security agencies to monitor and respond to potential threats.
“Any individual or group attempting to disrupt the examination process will be swiftly identified and brought to justice,” he said.
He reassured candidates, parents and the public of adequate security throughout the examination period and urged candidates to comply with guidelines.
Candidates were advised to arrive early at their centers, follow examination regulations and report suspicious activity to security personnel.
Placid also cautioned against spreading unverified information on social media and urged the public to rely on official updates from the police and JAMB.
The force reiterated its commitment to maintaining security and public confidence during national activities, including the examinations.
The 2026 UTME is scheduled to run from April 16 to April 25, 2026.
