FG hails successful NECO CBT rollout, assures inclusive nationwide expansion

ABUJA – The Federal Government has applauded the successful rollout of the National Examinations Council (NECO) Computer-Based Test (CBT) for the 2026 Senior School Certificate Examination (SSCE), describing it as a significant step towards strengthening the integrity of public examinations and accelerating digital transformation in Nigeria’s education sector.

The commendation was made by the Minister of State for Education, Professor Suwaiba Sa’id Ahmad, after monitoring the examination in Abuja on Tuesday.

The minister expressed satisfaction with the smooth conduct of the examination, noting that the exercise was completed without technical disruptions and received positive feedback from candidates.

According to her, the introduction of the CBT format enhances the credibility of examinations by randomising questions, reducing opportunities for examination malpractice and promoting merit-based assessment.

Professor Ahmad reiterated the Federal Government’s commitment to expanding the CBT system across the country through a gradual and inclusive process, stressing that no student would be disadvantaged because of inadequate infrastructure or limited access to technology.

She disclosed that the Federal Ministry of Education is collaborating with the National Assembly, state governments and private sector partners to strengthen the infrastructure required for nationwide implementation of computer-based examinations.

Also speaking, the Registrar of the National Examinations Council (NECO), Professor Ibrahim Dantani Wushishi, announced that a total of 1,378,048 candidates registered for the 2026 Senior School Certificate Examination, including more than 700,000 female candidates.

He added that the examination results are expected to be released by the first week of September 2026 or earlier.

The Federal Government reaffirmed its commitment to leveraging technology to improve examination integrity, enhance learning outcomes and build a globally competitive education system.