Police deploy extra security nationwide ahead of 2026 JAMB, dismiss safety rumours

Nigeria Police Force (NPF) has dismissed circulating rumours about the safety of some examination centres in a North Central state ahead of the 2026 Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) examination, assuring candidates and parents that robust security measures have been put in place nationwide.

In a statement issued by the Force Public Relations Officer, DCP Anthony Okon Placid, the Police described the reports as unfounded and misleading, stressing that adequate arrangements have already been made to ensure a peaceful and hitch-free exercise scheduled to commence on April 16, 2026.

According to the statement, “The Nigeria Police Force (NPF) is aware of recent unfounded rumors circulating regarding the safety of certain centers in a North Central State for the forthcoming Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) examination scheduled to commence on 16th April 2026. The NPF wishes to categorically state that these claims are without basis.”

While noting that the Force does not operate based on rumours, the Police acknowledged public concerns regarding the safety of candidates and assured that proactive steps had already been taken to prevent any security breach.

The statement further explained, “While the NPF does not act on rumors, the concerns raised by members of the public have been duly noted as it concerns the safety, education and future of our children and wards, and the Force has taken the following proactive steps to ensure the safety of all candidates.”

To strengthen security nationwide, the Police disclosed that additional personnel have been deployed to examination centres across the country, including covert and overt operatives, routine patrol teams, and rapid response units positioned at strategic locations.

“To this end, extra security has been deployed at examination centres nationwide, both overtly and covertly, to prevent any untoward incidents. This includes routine patrols, perimeter checks, and rapid response teams stationed at strategic locations,” the statement added.

The Police also revealed ongoing collaboration with other security agencies to effectively monitor potential threats and ensure swift response to any attempt to disrupt the examination process.

“The Nigeria Police Force is collaborating closely with sister security agencies, to monitor and address potential threats effectively. Any individual or group attempting to disrupt the examination process will be swiftly identified and brought to justice,” the Force warned.

Reassuring candidates, parents and stakeholders, the Police emphasized that comprehensive measures had been put in place to guarantee a safe environment throughout the examination period.

“The Nigeria Police Force reassures candidates, parents, and the general public that every measure has been taken to guarantee a safe and conducive environment for all examinations,” the statement said.

Candidates were advised to arrive early at their examination centres, comply with regulations, and promptly report suspicious activities to security personnel.

The statement further urged the public to disregard misinformation circulating on social media and rely only on official communication from the Police and JAMB.

“Members of the public are advised to disregard unverified information circulating on social media and to rely solely on official updates from JAMB and the NPF,” the Force noted.

The Police reiterated its commitment to ensuring peaceful conduct of national activities, including examinations, while appreciating the support of citizens and other security agencies.

“The Force remains committed to maintaining peace, security, and public confidence in all National activities, including the JAMB examinations. The Nigeria Police Force appreciates the cooperation of all citizens and stakeholders in ensuring a smooth and secure examination process, especially sister security agencies,” the statement concluded.

The 2026 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) is expected to commence nationwide on April 16, with millions of candidates set to participate across accredited centres.