CBT Centres Protest ₦700 UTME Fee Amid Rising Costs

The Computer-Based Test (CBT) Centres Association of Nigeria has protested against the ₦700 registration fee charged for the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME), arguing that it is grossly inadequate given the current economic climate characterized by inflation and rising logistics costs. Ohaekelem, the association's president, highlighted the heavy operational expenses faced by CBT centres, including high rental costs in major cities.

JAMB, in response, stated that the fee structure has not changed since 2018 and warned that centres found to overcharge candidates would face sanctions. The board also announced a disbursement of ₦1.57 billion to accredited CBT centres participating in the 2026 UTME registration exercise.

JAMB emphasized the introduction of a cashless registration system to improve transparency and prevent unauthorized charges. The registration for the UTME is scheduled to take place nationwide from April 16 to 25, with direct entry programs commencing on March 2 and expected to conclude by April 25.