- The technology-driven system will help authorities monitor candidates more effectively, identify suspicious activities instantly
- He added that NECO has strengthened examination security, improved the reliability of results
- He noted that the council had overcome challenges such as public distrust, infrastructure gaps
Nigeria’s education sector is set for another major reform as the Federal Government has announced that the National Examinations Council (NECO) will begin computer-based examinations this year to tackle malpractice and improve the integrity of public assessments.
Eko Hot Blog gathered that Minister of Education, Dr. Tunji Alausa, made the announcement on Thursday during NECO’s 25th anniversary celebration in Abuja.
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He explained that the move to computer-based testing is aimed at modernising the examination process and aligning Nigeria’s education system with global standards.
According to the minister, the technology-driven system will help authorities monitor candidates more effectively, identify suspicious activities instantly and minimise 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 stated.
He described NECO as a vital institution in promoting accountability and credibility within the education sector, noting that the council has grown steadily over the last 25 years into a dependable examination body.
Alausa said the council’s progress reflects Nigeria’s commitment to building a transparent and inclusive examination system that gives students equal opportunities across the country.
He added that NECO has strengthened examination security, improved the reliability of results and expanded access to students in underserved communities through the adoption of digital innovations.
The minister also assured that the Federal Ministry of Education would continue to supervise the council to ensure its examinations remain consistent with national academic standards and educational objectives.
He stressed the importance of shifting educational assessments away from memorisation toward skills such as critical thinking, digital competence and problem-solving.
“As we celebrate this Silver Jubilee, may NECO and the Ministry of Education continue to work together in driving reforms and ensuring that certification remains a pathway to brighter opportunities for students,” he said.
Speaking at the event, NECO Registrar and Chief Executive, Prof. Dantani Wushishi, revealed that the council now conducts examinations in eight countries outside Nigeria, describing it as a sign of growing global recognition for NECO certificates.
“Today, NECO stands as a benchmark for credible examinations in the region and among international peers,” Wushishi said.
He noted that the council had overcome challenges such as public distrust, infrastructure gaps and concerns over credibility to become a respected examination institution.
According to him, NECO has introduced several reforms over the years, including digital verification platforms, e-certificates, electronic library services and data management systems.
Wushishi also disclosed that the council had expanded its infrastructure with the construction of offices in 10 states and the establishment of more zonal directorates to improve operations nationwide.
He added that new operational vehicles had also been acquired to strengthen examination logistics across the country.
The registrar further stated that NECO would intensify efforts against examination malpractice while expanding its digital services as part of its future development plans.
He commended former Nigerian leaders, including Generals Ibrahim Babangida and Abdulsalami Abubakar, as well as former President Olusegun Obasanjo, for supporting the establishment and development of NECO.
Stakeholders at the event described the council’s growth over the past 25 years as a significant milestone and expressed optimism that the adoption of computer-based examinations would enhance transparency, efficiency and credibility in Nigeria’s assessment system.
The reform comes amid longstanding concerns over examination malpractice in Nigeria, including question leaks, impersonation and collusion at examination centres, with authorities hoping the digital transition will significantly reduce such practices.
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