The National Examinations Council (NECO) has announced a bold shift in its exam format.
Starting with the November/December 2025 Senior School Certificate Examination (SSCE) External, candidates will no longer write paper-pencil tests.
Instead, NECO will adopt a full Computer-Based Examination (CBE) system.
This move follows the Federal Government’s directive issued in July, mandating all national exams—including WAEC and NECO—to go digital by 2026.
“The National Examinations Council (NECO) has concluded arrangements to migrate from paper-pencil to computer-based examination,” the council said in a statement.
Strict Guidelines for CBT Centres
To ensure a smooth transition, NECO has released detailed requirements for CBE centres.
Each centre must have at least 150 functional computers or laptops, with 10% backups.
All systems must run on Windows 10, with a minimum of 4GB RAM and SSD storage of 32GB.
Wireless connections are banned. Centres must use cabled LAN in star topology, with gigabit switches and robust servers.
Monitors must be at least 15 inches for desktops and 17 inches for laptops.
Each exam hall must have individual cubicles, air conditioning, internal toilets, and backup power—minimum 40kva generator plus UPS/inverters with three-hour capacity.
Security is tight. Centres must install IP-based CCTV cameras, maintain strong MTN or Airtel signals, and be fenced with guards on duty.
“Make-shift CBT centres will not be accepted,” NECO warned.
Personnel must be trustworthy. Each centre must have two technical staff and one network engineer.
Pilot Phase Begins, Full Rollout in 2026
The November/December SSCE External will serve as NECO’s pilot phase.
By 2026, all NECO exams—including school-based SSCE—will be fully computer-based.
The council has invited eligible CBT operators nationwide to apply for accreditation.
Education Minister Dr. Tunji Alausa praised the initiative, saying it will help curb exam malpractice and align Nigeria’s education system with global standards.
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