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 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.

“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”.

From Attah Ede, Makurdi 

The Benue State College of Nursing Sciences, Makurdi, has secured full accreditation from the National Board for Technical Education (NBTE) to attain full collegiate status to run Diploma and Higher Diploma programmes.

State commissioner for health and human services, Dr Paul Ejeh-Ogwuche disclosed this while speaking with journalists in Makurdi at the weekend.

Dr. Ogwuche expressed optimism that getting NBTE accreditation would afford the college full collegiate status and allow for expansion of training and admission of more students, to bring to an end the issue of shortage of nurses in the state.

He disclosed that the College of Nursing Sciences received accreditation from the Nursing and Midwifery Council of Nigeria (NMCN) in September 2022, where its first students were indexed and currently undergoing studies.

According to him, the college has  population of over 115 students and up to date in academic sessions.

“The NBTE team undertook a resource inspection and accreditation visit to the college towards the end of last year. The reports I got so far, is satisfactory and encouraging. 

“There were infrastructural improvements, library resources, curriculum updates, and standard healthcare systems to satisfy accreditation requirements before their arrival. 

“Therefore, the NBTE team were satisfied with the facilities they met on ground and had given their approval. They have also forwarded their recommendation to the honourable minister of health for the final signature. That is the only thing we are waiting for now.

“The ministry has put necessary modalities in place to commence sale of forms for admission of students into various courses in the college. From what am hearing, is that between now and first week of February, the minister’s final approval will be out.

“Based on this, we have also concluded arrangements to move the department of nursing in the Benue State University which is currently located at the premises of college of nursing and midwifery to the university premises”, Dr. Ogwuche said.

It would be recalled that the Benue State University (BSU) in September 2024,  successfully secured accreditation for Department of Nursing to unbounded the school of nursing and midwifery to enhance healthcare training in the state.