The Nigeria Police Force has moved to strengthen security across the country ahead of the 2026 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination organised by the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board.
Papers News reports that the action comes as the police dismissed reports spreading online about possible threats to candidates at some examination centres, especially in parts of the North Central region.
The force said the claims making the rounds were false and not based on any verified information.
In a statement released on Tuesday, the police spokesperson, Anthony Placid, said the concerns had been noted but insisted there was no real danger to students preparing to sit for the examination.
He explained that even though the rumours were not true, the police had taken steps to ensure that candidates would write their exams in a safe and calm environment. According to him, security presence has been increased at centres across the country.
The police have now positioned officers visibly and also in less noticeable ways around examination venues.
Patrol teams have been assigned to move around regularly, while checks will be carried out around the centres. Special response units have also been placed at key locations to act quickly if any issue arises.
The force added that it is not working alone, as it is in contact with other security agencies to watch for any possible risk and respond quickly if needed. Anyone found trying to disturb the examination process will be tracked and dealt with according to the law.
The police assured candidates, parents, and the public that there would be full protection throughout the examination period. Students were advised to get to their centres early, follow all exam rules, and report anything suspicious to security officials nearby.
Members of the public were also warned against spreading unconfirmed information, especially on social media, as such messages can cause fear and confusion.
The police advised people to rely only on updates from official sources.
The 2026 UTME is scheduled to begin on April 16 and will run until April 25, with candidates expected to sit for their exams at approved centres nationwide.
