By Omoyeni Ojeifo
As part of efforts to boost the education sector and strengthen the integrity of public examinations, the Federal Government has announced that the National Examinations Council (NECO) will commence computer-based examinations this year.
Persecondnews reports that Dr. Tunji Alausa, the Minister of Education, disclosed this on Thursday during NECO’s 25th anniversary celebration in Abuja, describing the reform as a major step toward modernising Nigeria’s assessment system.
Alausa said the transition to technology-driven examinations marked a significant step in strengthening the credibility of public examinations in the country and enhancing Nigeria’s competitiveness in global education standards.
He explained that the new examination model would enable authorities to monitor candidates in real time, detect suspicious activities, and reduce examination fraud.
The minister noted that NECO’s growth reflected the country’s determination to establish a credible national examination system capable of providing equal opportunities for students nationwide.
According to Alausa, the examination body had improved examination security, enhanced scoring reliability, and expanded access to examinations in underserved communities while embracing technological innovations that restored public confidence in its certificates.
He added that the Federal Ministry of Education would continue to provide the necessary oversight to ensure NECO’s examinations aligned with national educational goals and curriculum standards.
The minister also stressed the need for educational assessments to move beyond rote learning and focus on modern skills such as critical thinking, digital literacy, and problem-solving.
“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 said.
Prof. Dantani Wushishi, Registrar and Chief Executive of NECO, said the council had expanded its operations beyond Nigeria and was now conducting examinations in eight countries.
He described the development as evidence of increasing international acceptance of NECO certificates.
“Today, NECO stands as a benchmark for credible examinations in the region and among international peers,” he stated.
Wushishi said the council had overcome early challenges, including public scepticism, infrastructure limitations, and credibility concerns, to emerge as a globally recognised examination institution.
He noted that NECO had introduced several reforms, including digital verification systems, e-certificates, e-library services, and data analytics platforms.
The registrar also revealed that the council had embarked on infrastructure expansion projects, including the construction of offices in 10 states and the creation of additional zonal directorates to improve service delivery.
According to him, NECO recently acquired operational vehicles to strengthen examination logistics across the country.
In addition, Wushishi stated the council planned to intensify measures against examination malpractice and strengthen digital services in line with its future development agenda.
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