ABUJA, Nigeria — Nigeria’s Minister of Education, Dr Tunji Alausa, announced on Thursday, May 7, 2026, that the National Examinations Council will introduce computer-based examinations starting in 2026.
Okay News reports that Dr Tunji Alausa disclosed the transition during the National Examinations Council Silver Jubilee event held at the Bola Ahmed Tinubu Conference Centre in Garki, Abuja.
The minister stated the shift to technology-driven testing is intended to reduce examination malpractice and improve the competitiveness of the assessment system. He said, “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.”
Dr Tunji Alausa said the new system will provide real-time monitoring of candidates and track suspicious activities during tests. He said, “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.”
The Registrar and Chief Executive of the National Examinations Council, Prof. Dantani Ibrahim Wushishi, stated the organization has expanded its operations to eight countries. He said, “Today, NECO stands as a benchmark for credible examinations in the region and among international peers.”
Prof. Dantani Ibrahim Wushishi noted the council has constructed offices in 10 states and developed digital verification systems. The organization recently procured operational vehicles for nationwide logistics and created additional zonal directorates for service delivery.
The registrar acknowledged former leaders, including Ibrahim Babangida, Abdulsalami Abubakar, and Olusegun Obasanjo, for their roles in the council’s establishment. The event was attended by the President of the International Association for Educational Assessment, Dr Mafu S. Rakometsi of South Africa, and the President of the Association for Educational Assessment in Africa, Dr Eshetu Kebede of Ethiopia.
Activities marking the 25-year anniversary included the presentation of a historical publication titled “Twenty-Five Years of NECO: Evolution, Challenges and Contributions to Nigeria’s Educational Assessment System.”
