Nigeria’s university entrance exam entered its second day as over 2.2 million candidates continue the 2026 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME). Early reports point to “structural anomalies” in some towns, but several computer-based test (CBT) centers have maintained stability using offline-first exam systems.
Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) deployed upgraded digital infrastructure this year to manage record candidate volume. However, inconsistent power supply and network disruptions have affected operations in a few locations.
A technical review of CBT centers shows a clear pattern. Facilities that rely heavily on constant internet connectivity face delays during outages. In contrast, centers equipped with offline-first software continue exams with minimal disruption.
Offline-first systems allow exam data to run locally on secured machines. The system stores candidate responses in real time and syncs with central servers once connectivity returns. This reduces downtime and prevents data loss during power or network failures.
Several CBT operators say this approach has improved reliability. Candidates complete their sessions without interruption, even during brief blackouts. Backup power systems support the process, but the software design plays the key role.
In towns where “structural anomalies” appeared, reports cite system lag, login delays, and rescheduled sessions. These issues often occur in centers that depend on live server connections.
JAMB officials have not released a full technical breakdown, but monitoring teams continue to assess performance across centers. The board aims to identify gaps and standardize best practices before future exams.
The Day 2 experience highlights a critical shift in exam technology. Reliability now depends less on perfect infrastructure and more on resilient system design.
As the UTME continues, the success of offline-first CBT centers may shape how large-scale digital exams operate across Nigeria. 
