2026 UTME police security deployment as NPF assures nationwide protection for candidates and dismisses safety rumours ahead of examination

The Nigeria Police Force (Nigeria Police Force) has deployed rapid response teams across examination centres nationwide ahead of the 2026 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination, dismissing circulating rumours of threats to candidates as unfounded.

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The police security deployment was announced on Tuesday by Force Public Relations Officer Anthony Placid, who said the police had taken proactive steps to ensure safety across all examination venues.

Placid stated that while the force was aware of rumours concerning candidate safety in a North Central state, the claims had no credible basis.

He stressed that the police do not act on rumours but continue to take public concerns seriously, especially those relating to students and education.

The police spokesman said additional security personnel have been deployed nationwide, both visibly and covertly, to safeguard examination centres.

He explained that the measures include routine patrols, perimeter surveillance and rapid response teams stationed at strategic locations to respond quickly to any incident.

The Nigeria Police Force also confirmed collaboration with sister security agencies to monitor potential threats and prevent any disruption of the examination process.

Placid warned that individuals attempting to cause disturbances during the examinations would be swiftly identified and prosecuted.

Candidates, parents and the general public were reassured of adequate protection throughout the examination period.

He urged candidates to comply with examination rules and report any suspicious activity to security officials at their centres.

The police also cautioned against spreading unverified information on social media, advising the public to rely only on official updates from the police and the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board.

The 2026 UTME is scheduled to take place from April 16 to April 25, 2026, across approved centres nationwide.

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Authorities say the enhanced security measures are aimed at maintaining peace, order and public confidence during the examination period.