FG: WAEC, NECO Exams to Go Fully CBT by 2026 to Curb Malpractice
The Federal Government of Nigeria has announced a major shift in the education sector, revealing that all WAEC and NECO school-based examinations will transition to Computer-Based Testing (CBT) by 2026. This move aims to tackle exam malpractice and enhance the credibility of results, aligning Nigeria’s education system with global standards.
A Step Toward Digital Exams
During a visit to observe a pilot CBT SSCE session at Sascon International School in Abuja on Tuesday, July 22, 2025, Minister of Education Dr. Tunji Alausa praised NECO’s seamless performance, signaling readiness for full digitization. “WAEC and NECO will soon be like JAMB – conducting exams in certified CBT centres across the country. This isn’t just about exams; it’s about building a modern, tech-driven value chain in our education sector,” Alausa said. He highlighted that the transition will leverage thousands of existing JAMB CBT centres, with plans to expand and repurpose them for WAEC and NECO candidates, boosting job creation and technology adoption.
The rollout begins with objective components of WAEC and NECO exams moving to CBT by November 2025, with full digitization, including essay papers, expected by 2026. This shift is designed to reduce malpractices and ensure exam integrity.
NECO’s Readiness and Challenges
NECO Registrar Prof. Dantani Wushishi affirmed the council’s preparedness, stating, “We are ready. As professionals, we’re committed to delivering exams via any medium. We call on state governments to support this effort by providing needed infrastructure.” Despite infrastructural challenges in remote areas, Wushishi emphasized that CBT would enhance the global recognition of Nigerian certificates and curb exam malpractices. NECO reported a record 1,367,210 students registered for the 2025 SSCE, with Kano State leading in entries and Kebbi State recording the fewest. The Nigerian International School in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, had only eight candidates, the lowest globally.
Legislative Support for the Transition
Senator Ekong Samson, Vice Chairman of the Senate Committee on Basic and Secondary Education, commended NECO’s efforts and pledged legislative support to align Nigeria’s education with global best practices. Similarly, Hon. Oboku Oforji, Chairman of the House Committee on Basic Examination Bodies, who monitored the pilot at Federal Government Boys College, Apo, praised NECO’s progress, stating, “We’re impressed by NECO’s work. This transition is vital, and we’ll support it in every way possible.”
Is This Development Helpful To Nigerians ?
The move to CBT exams reflects Nigeria’s commitment to modernizing education and combating exam fraud. By leveraging technology, the government aims to enhance result credibility, create jobs, and position Nigerian students for success in a digital world. As the 2026 deadline approaches, stakeholders are urged to support infrastructure development to ensure a smooth transition.
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