The National Examinations Council (NECO) has announced a landmark shift in Nigeria’s examination system, confirming that it will phase out the traditional paper-and-pencil format beginning in November/December 2025.
From that date, all Senior School Certificate Examination (SSCE) External assessments will be conducted entirely on a Computer-Based Testing (CBT) system.
This development aligns with the Federal Government’s July 2025 directive, which revealed that both private and public CBT centres would be fully deployed for the conduct of all national examinations, including WAEC and NECO, by 2026.
NECO’s Statement
In a statement shared with PUNCH Online on Wednesday, NECO said:
“The National Examinations Council (NECO) has concluded arrangements to migrate from paper-pencil to computer-based examination, starting from the 2025 November/December Senior School Certificate Examination (SSCE) External.”
To ensure a smooth rollout, NECO has invited Computer-Based Examination (CBE) Centre Operators across the country to apply for registration. Only centres that meet strict technical, infrastructural, and security standards will be accredited.
Requirements for CBT Centres
NECO has released a detailed guideline document specifying the mandatory standards for operators. Some of the key requirements include:
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Systems: Minimum of 150 functional computers or laptops with 10% backups, Intel-based processors, 4GB RAM, SSD drives, Windows 10, and robust servers capable of supporting 150 concurrent users.
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Network & Security: Star topology cable LAN (no wireless connections), gigabit switches with backups, up-to-date antivirus, and CCTV surveillance with IP cameras (no wireless CCTV permitted).
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Halls: Individual cubicles (26” x 18” x 18”), air conditioning, proper lighting, trunked cables, visible wall clocks, and a dedicated CBT environment (not shared with malls, cinemas, or markets).
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Facilities: Minimum 40kva generator, UPS/inverters with three-hour capacity, internal toilets, holding areas for candidates, and fenced premises.
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Personnel: At least two technical staff and one network engineer, all of whom must be of “high integrity” to safeguard the credibility of the exam process.
NECO emphasised that make-shift CBT centres will not be allowed, stressing that all accredited centres must be dedicated, functional, and well-maintained throughout the year.
National Education Reform
The transition marks one of the most significant reforms in Nigeria’s examination system, designed to strengthen integrity, reduce malpractice, and align with global best practices in assessment.
With over 1.5 million candidates sitting NECO exams annually, the new system is expected to transform testing logistics and reinforce the credibility of national examinations.
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