JAMB finally releases 279 withheld UTME results as malpractice probe deepens Nationwide
JAMB releases 279 withheld UTME results after probe
The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) has officially released 279 results from the 2026 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) that were previously withheld over suspected examination malpractice.
The development comes amid ongoing investigations by the examination body into irregularities recorded during the nationwide Computer-Based Test (CBT), which attracted more than two million candidates across Nigeria and foreign centres.
According to statements released by JAMB and reported by multiple media organisations, some candidates whose results were initially withheld have now been cleared after the board found no direct evidence linking them to examination malpractice. However, the board stressed that several other results remain under investigation and may still be cancelled if candidates are found culpable.
JAMB Explains Why UTME Results Were Initially Withheld
JAMB spokesperson, Fabian Benjamin, disclosed that the affected results were withheld as part of routine investigations into suspicious activities observed during the examination period.
The board explained that some CBT centres had been flagged by its live monitoring teams following reports of irregular behaviour, prompting a detailed review of candidate activities and examination records.
In its statement, JAMB clarified that while some results were eventually released after candidates were cleared, others had already been cancelled where evidence of malpractice was established.
The board stated that centres where suspicious activities were detected would continue to undergo scrutiny until investigations are concluded.
This latest update is part of JAMB’s broader effort to strengthen the integrity and credibility of Nigeria’s tertiary admission process.
Candidates Advised To Recheck Their UTME Results
JAMB urged candidates whose results were previously withheld to recheck their status using the approved SMS channels.
Affected candidates were instructed to send “UTMERESULT” to either 55019 or 66019 using the same phone number used during UTME registration.
The examination body noted that candidates whose results have now been released would be able to access them immediately through the platform.
For candidates whose results remain withheld, JAMB said investigations are still ongoing and further updates would be communicated in due course.
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Over Two Million Candidates Registered For 2026 UTME
The 2026 UTME commenced on April 16 and ended on April 23, with over two million candidates participating in the nationwide examination.
JAMB had earlier released more than 1.2 million results in batches while withholding several others over alleged examination misconduct and verification issues.
The examination body also recently unveiled the list of top-performing candidates in the 2026 UTME, with a candidate seeking admission into the University of Lagos reportedly emerging as the highest scorer nationwide.
JAMB Retains 150 Cut-Off Mark For Universities
In another major policy decision, JAMB retained 150 as the minimum cut-off mark for admission into Nigerian universities for the 2026/2027 academic session.
The board also approved 100 as the minimum benchmark for polytechnics and colleges of education.
Additionally, JAMB announced that candidates seeking admission into Nigeria Certificate in Education (NCE) programmes would no longer be required to sit for the UTME.
Under the revised guideline, prospective NCE students would only need a minimum of four O’Level credits to secure admission into colleges of education.
Education stakeholders have described the changes as part of ongoing reforms aimed at expanding access to tertiary education while improving examination transparency and efficiency.
JAMB Intensifies Crackdown On Examination Fraud
The release of the 279 results highlights JAMB’s increasing use of technology-driven monitoring systems to detect malpractice during examinations.
The board has repeatedly warned candidates, CBT operators, and school officials against engaging in any form of examination misconduct, insisting that offenders would face strict sanctions.
Education analysts believe the continued monitoring and verification processes may help restore public confidence in the UTME system, especially following concerns over examination fraud in previous years.
With admission processes for the 2026/2027 academic session already gaining momentum, candidates across the country are expected to continue checking their results and monitoring official updates from JAMB.
FAQ
Why did JAMB withhold some 2026 UTME results?
JAMB withheld some UTME results due to suspected examination malpractice and suspicious activities observed during the CBT examination across certain centres.
How many withheld UTME results has JAMB released?
The board announced the release of 279 previously withheld UTME results after investigations cleared some candidates of wrongdoing.
How can I check if my withheld UTME result has been released?
Candidates can check their result status by sending “UTMERESULT” to 55019 or 66019 using the same phone number used during registration.
Will JAMB still release more withheld results?
Yes. JAMB stated that investigations are ongoing and more results may be released if candidates are found not guilty of malpractice.
What happens if JAMB finds a candidate guilty of malpractice?
If sufficient evidence of malpractice is established, the candidate’s result will be cancelled and further sanctions may apply.
What is the cut-off mark for universities in 2026?
JAMB retained 150 as the minimum cut-off mark for admission into Nigerian universities for the 2026/2027 academic session.
What is the cut-off mark for polytechnics and colleges of education?
The minimum cut-off mark for polytechnics and colleges of education is 100.
Has JAMB changed admission requirements for NCE programmes?
Yes. Candidates seeking admission into NCE programmes no longer need to write UTME. They only require at least four O’Level credits.
When was the 2026 UTME conducted?
The 2026 UTME took place between April 16 and April 23, 2026.
How many candidates registered for the 2026 UTME?
More than two million candidates registered for the 2026 UTME worldwide.