The 2026 mock Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) conducted by the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board has triggered widespread backlash, with candidates and parents lamenting technical failures, delays, and poor coordination across centres nationwide.
The mock exam, held on Saturday, March 28, involved 227,896 candidates, but reports indicate that many were unable to complete, or even begin, the test due to persistent system errors and network disruptions.
Across several states, candidates experienced hours-long delays. In parts of Nasarawa State, candidates scheduled for an 8:00 a.m. session were still waiting as late as 11:28 a.m., leaving many stranded alongside anxious parents.
On social media platform X, reactions poured in from frustrated candidates, parents, and educators who described the exercise as chaotic.
Alex Onyia, Chief Executive Officer of Educare, said many students could not sit for the exam due to network glitches. He warned that such disruptions could have serious implications for candidates if not urgently addressed.
Several users reported similar experiences, especially in Lagos. One user highlighted persistent system errors at multiple Computer-Based Test (CBT) centres in Ikorodu, where candidates were reportedly unable to proceed with the examination due to repeated error messages.
Others raised concerns over JAMB’s reported testing of a new software during the mock exercise, questioning its readiness for the main examination.
Educators also confirmed that students were affected by mid-exam disconnections and access issues, despite adequate preparation.
Beyond technical problems, logistical challenges compounded the situation. Some candidates were posted to distant or remote centres, making participation difficult. In one case, a parent said her daughter missed the exam after being assigned to a far-flung location outside Port Harcourt, raising concerns about safety and accessibility.
Reports from centres further corroborated the disruptions. At a CBT centre in Masaka, Karu Local Government Area of Nasarawa State, the exam had yet to commence hours after the scheduled start time, leaving candidates waiting indefinitely.
The development has renewed concerns about the preparedness of the examination body ahead of the main UTME, with stakeholders urging JAMB to urgently address technical and logistical shortcomings to avoid a repeat during the nationwide examination.
