NECO to Begin Computer-Based Examinations — FG

• The Federal Government says NECO will begin computer-based examinations this year as part of efforts to tackle examination malpractice and modernise Nigeria’s assessment system.

The Federal Government has announced that the National Examinations Council (NECO) will commence computer-based examinations this year in a move aimed at reducing examination malpractice and improving the credibility of public assessments in Nigeria.

Minister of Education, Tunji Alausa, disclosed this during NECO’s 25th anniversary celebration in Abuja, describing the transition as a major reform in Nigeria’s education sector.

According to the minister, the adoption of technology-driven examinations will allow authorities to “monitor candidates in real time, detect suspicious activities and reduce examination fraud.”

“We are at the threshold of a very important reform, which NECO is spearheading, and that is the Computer-Based Examination, which is to commence this year,” Alausa said.

He noted that NECO has grown into a reliable examination body over the past 25 years, improving examination security, scoring reliability, and access to examinations across underserved communities. He added that technological innovations introduced by the council have helped restore public confidence in its certificates.

The minister also stressed that educational assessments must move beyond rote memorisation and focus more on critical thinking, digital literacy, and problem-solving skills.

“As we celebrate this Silver Jubilee, may NECO and the Ministry of Education continue to work in unison, fostering trust, driving reform, and ensuring that certification remains a passport to brighter futures for all students,” he added.

Speaking at the event, NECO Registrar and Chief Executive, Dantani Wushishi, revealed that the council now conducts examinations in eight countries, describing the expansion as proof of growing international acceptance of NECO certificates.

“Today, NECO stands as a benchmark for credible examinations in the region and among international peers,” Wushishi said.

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He explained that the council has introduced reforms such as digital verification systems, e-certificates, e-library services, and data analytics platforms, while also expanding infrastructure through new offices and zonal directorates across the country.

Wushishi added that NECO recently acquired operational vehicles to strengthen examination logistics nationwide and plans to intensify efforts against examination malpractice while improving its digital services.

Participants at the anniversary event described NECO’s growth over the last 25 years as a major achievement and expressed optimism that the introduction of computer-based examinations would improve transparency, efficiency, and credibility in Nigeria’s education system.