The Federal Ministry of Education has confirmed that both the West African Examinations Council (WAEC) and the National Examinations Council (NECO) will begin Computer-Based Testing (CBT) for objective papers by November 2025, with full digital migration, including essay components, set for 2026.
This major shift from Paper-Pencil Test (PPT) to digital exams aims to modernize Nigeria’s assessment system and improve integrity in public examinations.
The Honourable Minister of Education, Dr. Maruf Tunji Alausa, CON, made this announcement during an inspection visit to SASCON International School, Abuja, where NECO conducted its first CBT-based Senior Secondary Certificate Examination (SSCE).
The Minister described the pilot as “a remarkable demonstration of possibility, preparedness, and progress,” commending NECO for leading the way in educational reform.
By 2026, all WAEC and NECO exams will be administered at accredited CBT centres across the country. The government is working with both public and private CBT centres to ensure that this initiative is fully implemented nationwide.
According to Dr. Alausa, “It’s not just about technology—it’s about integrity.” He emphasized that the goal is to reduce examination malpractice, restore confidence in the system, create jobs, and boost investment in Nigeria’s education and ICT sectors.
Hon. Oboku Oforji, Chair of the House Committee on Basic Examination Bodies, praised NECO, stating, “NECO is our own, and under Prof. Wushishi’s leadership, it’s making us proud.” The pilot CBT SSCE is being seen as a successful step toward full digital transformation in the education sector.
Lawmakers, including Senator Ekong Samson, have also shown strong legislative support for the transition. NECO Registrar, Prof. Ibrahim Wushishi, expressed readiness to expand the digital model despite challenges with infrastructure in certain areas, and he called on state governments to offer their backing.
This year’s SSCE had 1,367,210 registered candidates. Kano recorded the highest registration numbers, while the smallest centre was hosted in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. The Ministry urges all stakeholders to support the digital examination reform.