FG Reaffirms No Retreat on Transitioning WAEC, NECO, and Others to CBT in 2026

The Honourable Minister of Education, Dr. Maruf Tunji Alausa, CON, has reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to transitioning all national public examinations—specifically WAEC and NECO—from Paper-Pencil Test (PPT) to full Computer-Based Testing (CBT) by 2026.

He made this known during a monitoring visit to NECO’s pilot CBT-based SSCE at SASCON International School, Abuja. Describing it as “a remarkable demonstration of possibility, preparedness, and progress,” the Minister praised NECO for modernizing the examination system.

By November 2025, both WAEC and NECO will deliver objective papers via CBT. Full migration, including essay papers, is scheduled for 2026. All exams will be held at accredited CBT centres.

Dr. Alausa emphasized that this reform is about more than technology—it’s about restoring examination integrity, reducing malpractice, creating jobs, and unlocking value in Nigeria’s education and ICT sectors. He assured that the government will partner with states to ensure access to CBT centres nationwide.

Lawmakers, including Hon. Oboku Oforji and Senator Ekong Samson, expressed strong legislative backing. NECO Registrar, Prof. Ibrahim Wushishi, affirmed NECO’s readiness despite terrain-related challenges and appealed to state governments for support.

This year’s SSCE recorded 1,367,210 candidates. Kano had the highest registration, while Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, hosted the smallest centre.

The Ministry calls on all stakeholders to align with this transformative reform agenda.

Folasade Boriowo
Director, Press & Public Relations