Nigeria's examination system is set for a significant overhaul as the Federal Government announces the introduction of computer based examinations under the National Examinations Council, a reform the Minister of Education says will curb malpractice and position the country's assessment framework for global competitiveness.

Education Minister Dr Tunji Alausa announced NECO's Silver Jubilee celebration held at the Bola Ahmed Tinubu Conference Centre, Garki, Abuja, describing the council as a "standard bearer for credible external examinations" and confirming that the transition would commence within the year.

"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," Alausa stated. He added that the system would enable real time monitoring of candidates, track suspicious activities and drastically reduce examination fraud that has continued to erode public confidence in national assessments.

The minister noted that NECO's 25 year journey reflected Nigeria's determination to build a credible assessment system capable of guaranteeing equal opportunities for learners across the country. He pledged that the Ministry of Education would continue to provide policy direction to ensure NECO examinations aligned with national curricula and broader development goals, stressing that future assessments must prioritise critical thinking, problem solving and digital literacy over rote learning.

NECO Registrar and Chief Executive Prof Dantani Ibrahim Wushishi revealed that the council had expanded beyond Nigeria's borders and currently conducts examinations in eight countries, which he described as evidence of growing international confidence in NECO certificates. "Today, NECO stands as a benchmark for credible examinations in the region and among international peers," Wushishi declared.

The registrar disclosed that the council had constructed offices in 10 states, deployed electronic certificates, developed digital verification systems and established data analytics and electronic library platforms as part of its infrastructure expansion. He added that NECO recently procured operational vehicles to strengthen nationwide examination logistics and created additional zonal directorates to improve service delivery.

Wushishi announced plans to intensify anti cheating measures and expand digital services going forward, while paying tribute to former heads of state, including Generals Ibrahim Babangida, Abdulsalami Abubakar, and Olusegun Obasanjo, for their roles in institutionalising the council.

The anniversary event attracted government officials, lawmakers, education stakeholders and international assessment experts, including 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.