The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) has reminded prospective candidates that registration for the 2026 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) will close on Feb. 26.

The board advised candidates intending to sit for the examination to complete their registration immediately, stating that the deadline would not be extended under any circumstance.

This was contained in the board’s weekly bulletin released on Monday.

The board expressed concerns over the low turnout of candidates at several accredited registration centres at this stage of the exercise.

It said that the recurring trend of delaying registration until the last minute and then agitating for extension would not be tolerated in 2026.

“This recurring pattern, where candidates deliberately delay registration until the final days and subsequently begin to agitate for an extension, will not be entertained in 2026.

“JAMB is fully aware of the deliberate tactics of examination cheats and individuals masquerading as tutorial centre owners, who misleadingly advise candidates to delay registration until the last minute.

“This strategy is often aimed at forcing an extension of the registration period, thereby enabling the mass movement of candidates to centres in groups, which facilitates examination malpractice,” it said.

JAMB explained that the 2026 UTME registration commenced on Jan. 26 and was scheduled to last for five weeks, noting that the timeline remained unchanged.

The board disclosed that about one million candidates had so far indicated interest in the examination, while many had procured their ePINs and were expected to complete registration promptly.

It added that extending the registration period was impracticable because its operational calendar was aligned with those of other examination bodies.

JAMB advised candidates to register early, avoid last-minute rush and disregard any suggestion that the deadline would be extended.

The board emphasised that it would not be responsible for candidates who failed to act within the stipulated time.

From Dan Amasingha, Minna

The National Examinations Council (NECO) has released the results of the 2025 Senior School Certificate Examination (SSCE) for External Candidates, 52 days after the last paper was written, with 71.63 per cent of candidates achieving five credits and above, including English Language and Mathematics.

The results were announced yesterday at NECO’s headquarters in Minna, Niger State, by the Registrar and Chief Executive, Prof.

Dantani Wushishi, during a press briefing and a video statement posted on the council’s official X handle.

According to Prof. Wushishi, a total of 96,979 candidates registered for the examination, comprising 51,823 males (53.

43 per cent) and 45,156 females (46.56 per cent). Out of this number, 95,160 candidates actually sat for the examination, which covered 16 subjects.

A breakdown of the performance shows that 93,425 candidates sat for English Language, out of which 73,167, representing 78.32 per cent, obtained credit and above. In Mathematics, 93,330 candidates participated, with 85,256 candidates, or 91.36 per cent, scoring credit and above.

Overall, 68,166 candidates, representing 71.63 per cent, obtained five credits and above, including English Language and Mathematics. In addition, 82,082 candidates, or 86.26 per cent, achieved five credits and above irrespective of English and Mathematics.

Prof. Wushishi reiterated NECO’s zero tolerance for examination malpractice, noting that while standards and examination integrity were maintained from planning to result release, cases of malpractice increased significantly. He disclosed that 9,016 cases of examination malpractice were recorded in 2025, compared with 6,160 cases in 2024, representing an increase of about 31 per cent.

As part of disciplinary measures, five supervisors—two from the Federal Capital Territory and one each from Kano, Adamawa and Ondo States—were recommended for blacklisting for aiding and abetting malpractice. Additionally, four examination centres—two in Niger State and one each in Yobe and Kano States—were recommended for de-recognition over involvement in whole-centre malpractice.

The Registrar advised candidates to check their results on NECO’s official website using their examination registration numbers.

The SSCE External Examination is designed mainly for private candidates who are outside the regular school system, including those seeking to obtain certification or improve previously earned grades.

From Joseph Amedu, Lokoja

The Federal University, Lokoja (FUL), has matriculated 9,097 students for the 2025/2026 academic session with a warning to them to avoid examination malpractice, cultism, and other social vices that could ruin their academic pursuit.

The Vice Chancellor of the University, Professor Olayemi Akinwumi in his speech at the 14th Matriculation Ceremony of the institution, held at the Felele Main Campus over the weekend, affirmed that the University would hold the new students accountable to the oath they have taken

“Dear matriculants, let me clearly state that with studentship comes accountability and discipline.

You are expected to take your academic work seriously.

“Please note that any student with less than 75% class attendance shall not be eligible to sit for examinations at the end of each semester. Attendance is not optional; it is mandatory.

“You must also avoid every form of examination misconduct and malpractice. The University has zero tolerance for such acts, and the penalties are severe.

“Similarly, you are advised to stay away from drug abuse and substance use, as these are corrosive habits that destroy lives and futures.

“The University equally maintains strict standards on decency in appearance. You are therefore required to comply fully with the approved dress code at all times. Decency reflects discipline, and discipline is the pathway to success.

“Be security conscious at all times, and promptly report suspicious activities to the appropriate authorities. You are also strongly advised to stay away from all forms of violent protest throughout your stay in the University. Dialogue, not violence, remains the acceptable means of engagement.

“Every matriculant is expected to obtain a copy of the Students’ Handbook, study it carefully, and adhere strictly to the rules and regulations enshrined therein. Let me emphasize that ignorance of the rules is not an excuse.

Beyond academics, I encourage you to participate actively in sporting and recreational activities, as these contribute to your physical well-being and holistic development.

“Respect your colleagues and all members of staff of the University, as mutual respect will make your stay here peaceful, productive, and fulfilling.

“Remain focused on why you are here; to learn, to grow, and to prepare for the future. Do not be an NFA—No Future Ambition student. Have a vision, set goals, and pursue them with diligence”.