The 2025 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) has officially commenced across Nigeria, with the exercise holding in 887 accredited Computer-Based Test (CBT) centres.
More than two million candidates are expected to participate in the examination, which is conducted by the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB). The exam will run through to May 5.
Monitoring of centres in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) and nearby areas revealed a generally smooth process.
At the Sascon International School CBT Centre, candidates reported a positive experience. Emmanuel Ezegwu, a returning candidate, described the exam as easier than the previous year’s and rated his performance at 89%.
“This centre is better. I wrote the exam last year, and the experience this time is commendable. No issues at all,” he said.
Victoria Bilala, an 18-year-old first-time candidate, also had a good experience, despite initial nerves and a brief technical glitch which was quickly resolved.
“There were little or no hitches. I had a slight technical issue, but the supervisor addressed it quickly. I was a bit nervous, being my first time,” she said.
The centre supervisor, Emmanuel Adaji, noted that out of 200 registered candidates, only 11 were absent. He urged candidates, especially those traveling from outside the state, to arrive early or consider staying overnight ahead of their exam date. He commended the cooperation of the centre's management and the NSCDC officers stationed there for security.
At Christ Academy International School in Gwagwalada, the exam proceeded without any technical disruptions. Abdulrahman Salihu, part of the first batch scheduled for 6:30 a.m., said the systems were fully functional and the experience was seamless.
Charity Danjuma, also at the centre, echoed his sentiments, noting a smooth process and expressing hope of securing admission after her fourth attempt at the UTME.
At Future Gate Academy in Ado, Nasarawa State, candidates praised the stress-free environment and the supportive officials. Stephanie Okwori described the conditions as conducive and the questions as manageable, allowing her to finish on time.
Joseph Joshua, another candidate at the centre, said biometric verification began promptly at 6:30 a.m., giving ample time to settle before the exam. He appreciated the calm atmosphere and the professionalism of the invigilators.
However, at Bingham University’s exam centre, Clara Ajayi reported a slight delay in organizing candidates into the exam hall but confirmed that the exam itself went on without issues.
“The facilities and management were efficient, but it took a bit of time to get everyone settled,” she said.
According to Dip Connect Online News, the UTME is being conducted in three sessions daily across all centres—morning, afternoon, and evening.
As the exercise continues nationwide, candidates and stakeholders have expressed optimism about the conduct and fairness of the process, with many praising JAMB’s continued improvements in exam administration.
