Over 380,000 Candidates Sit for Rescheduled 2025 UTME in Lagos, South East

More than 380,000 candidates participated in the rescheduled 2025 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) across Lagos and the South East on Friday, with many praising the exercise for its improved organisation and execution compared to the initial round.

In Lagos, approximately 206,610 candidates took the test at 65 Computer-Based Test (CBT) centres. In the South East, 173,387 candidates sat for the exam across 93 centres. Candidates in both regions reported early arrival times, with accreditation for the first batch typically starting between 6:30 a.m. and 7:30 a.m.

At a CBT centre in Ayobo, Lagos, 218 candidates were present for the morning session, while 32 were absent.

In Imo State, the examination was held in four sessions across the state’s three senatorial districts—Orlu, Okigwe, and Owerri—starting at 6 a.m. and concluding around 4 p.m. At the Mater Ecclesiae Seminary in Aboh Mbaise, proceedings began on time.

While most centres reported a smooth process, a few encountered technical setbacks, such as system crashes, frozen screens, and malfunctioning input devices. At Galaxy ICT and Educational Services in Mbaitolu LGA, a candidate reported losing valuable time on the Mathematics paper due to system glitches. However, Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) officials reportedly responded swiftly to resolve the issues and ensure the exams continued.

In Anambra State, the rescheduled exam was described as more orderly and confidence-boosting. Candidates at the IDK and Grafile centres in Awka said the process was smooth, with security personnel present to maintain order.

Many candidates expressed appreciation for JAMB’s efforts to rectify earlier issues. The Registrar, Professor Ishaq Oloyede, had previously issued a public apology for the challenges that plagued the initial examination.

Mrs. Esther Ugochukwu, a parent, criticised the federal government for inadequate investment in educational and technological infrastructure, calling the earlier exam failures a national embarrassment. She advocated for more funding and recruitment of technical experts to support the sector.

In Abia State, candidates shared positive feedback. Chioma Marvelous Nnamdi, who took the exam in Umudike, said the revised exam was clearer and easier to answer.

“This time, the questions made more sense. I feel more confident about my performance,” she said, also commending JAMB for responding to earlier concerns.

Another candidate, Chinonso Ezekiel, echoed her sentiments, noting that faulty computers were quickly replaced and the exam questions were more straightforward.

A staff member at the Michael Okpara University E-Test Centre said the centre had taken proactive steps to prevent technical issues, even though the earlier problems were beyond their control.

In Enugu, similar reports of improved organisation and a peaceful exam atmosphere were shared by candidates and officials alike.

Overall, the rescheduled UTME appeared to be a significant improvement over the initial edition, with many hoping for better outcomes as a result.