The Federal Government has announced that all WAEC and NECO examinations will transition fully to Computer-Based Testing (CBT) by 2026.

The Minister of Education, Dr. Tunji Alausa, disclosed this during a visit to observe a pilot CBT Senior Secondary Certificate Examination (SSCE) session conducted by NECO at Sascon International School, Abuja, on Tuesday. Eyes Of Lagos reports,

CBT to Tackle Exam Malpractice

Alausa commended NECO for its seamless pilot session, describing it as a major step toward full digitisation.

“WAEC and NECO will soon be like JAMB—conducting exams in certified CBT centres nationwide. This will curb malpractice, improve exam credibility, and build a modern, tech-driven education sector,” Alausa stated.

The government plans to repurpose thousands of JAMB-certified CBT centres for WAEC and NECO candidates, encouraging both public and private investments to expand infrastructure.

By November 2025, all objective papers will be taken via CBT, while essay papers will fully transition by 2026.

NECO Ready Despite Challenges

NECO Registrar, Prof. Dantani Wushishi, assured of the council’s readiness, urging state governments to support infrastructure development, especially in remote areas.

“CBT will reduce malpractice and boost global recognition of Nigerian certificates,” he said.

NECO recorded 1,367,210 SSCE candidates this year—its highest so far—with Kano State topping the list and Kebbi State having the least. The Nigerian International School, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, had the lowest number of entries, with just eight students.

Lawmakers Back CBT Transition

Senator Ekong Samson, Vice Chairman of the Senate Committee on Basic and Secondary Education, and Hon. Oboku Oforji, Chairman of the House Committee on Basic Examination Bodies, pledged legislative support for the reform, praising NECO’s progress.