The National Examinations Council (NECO) has announced a significant transformation in its examination format, confirming it will phase out the traditional paper-pencil method to fully adopt Computer-Based Testing (CBT) starting with the November/December 2025 Senior School Certificate Examination (SSCE) External.
This move aligns with the Federal Government’s directive issued in July 2025, which mandates that all national examinations, including WAEC and NECO, transition to computer-based testing by 2026.
NECO has finalized arrangements for the transition and released comprehensive guidelines for CBT centres, covering system specifications, hall requirements, personnel standards, and security protocols to ensure a smooth and secure examination process.
The adoption of CBT for the November/December SSCE External is considered a pilot phase, paving the way for the full rollout of the system for all examinations in 2026.
The Minister of Education, Dr. Maruf Tunji Alausa, described the shift as a landmark step towards modernizing Nigeria’s examination system, aiming to reduce examination malpractice and enhance result integrity. NECO Registrar, Prof. Ibrahim Dantani Wushishi, affirmed the council’s readiness despite infrastructural challenges, urging state governments to support the nationwide deployment of CBT facilities.
With over 1.3 million candidates registered for the 2025 SSCE, the digital transition promises increased transparency, security, and efficiency, bringing Nigeria’s examination bodies in line with global technological standards.
