By Osordi Ayomide
The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) has adjusted its schedule for the 2026 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME), slightly easing the early-morning rush for candidates.
Under the new arrangement, candidates for the first session are now expected at their Computer-Based Test (CBT) centres by 7:00 a.m., instead of 6:30 a.m., while the examination will run from 8:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m.
Though a 30-minute shift, the change is seen by many as significant. For years, candidates, especially those posted far from home, have struggled to meet the earlier reporting time, often travelling before dawn.
Observers believe the adjustment may also reflect growing concerns around candidate safety and logistics. Reactions have been largely positive, with parents and candidates welcoming the move as a practical step toward reducing stress on exam day.
However, some stakeholders insist that more needs to be done, particularly in improving centre allocation.
As Nigeria’s key gateway to tertiary education, JAMB continues to refine its processes. While modest, this timing adjustment signals a responsiveness to longstanding concerns and a step toward a more candidate-friendly examination system.