The Zamfara State Government has commenced biometric data capture for students sponsored to sit for the 2026 West African Examinations Council and National Examination Council examinations, with over N1.3 billion allocated for the exercise.
Habibu Abubakar Gajam, Executive Secretary of Zamfara Information Technology Development Agency, disclosed that all secondary school students will be captured to enable the government build a comprehensive and reliable education database.
"ZITDA is pleased to notify the ministry that preparations for the 2026 WAEC and NECO eRegistration exercise for all Government sponsored candidates have formally commenced. This biometric capture exercise extends beyond SSS III students; all secondary school students will be captured to enable the Government to build a comprehensive and reliable education database," Gajam stated.
He explained that the exercise is being carried out in close collaboration with the ministry, particularly the examinations and records department, noting that it ensures efficiency and transparency in the education sector.
Alhaji Wadatau Madawaki, Commissioner for Education, Science and Technology, launched the biometric data capture programme on Thursday at Sambo Secondary School in Gusau, revealing that over 20,000 students were sponsored by the state government to sit for the 2026 WAEC and NECO examinations.
He emphasised that the biometric data capture aims to build a reliable education database, enhance transparency, and ensure accountability in exam sponsorship.
"Education remains a key priority of this administration, and we will continue to embrace innovation and digital solutions in line with global best practice. I appreciate ZITDA’s Executive Secretary, Habib Abubakar Gajam, for ensuring the commencement of this exercise. I call on school administrators, teachers, parents, and students to cooperate fully with officials to ensure the success of this exercise," Madawaki noted.
The commissioner assured that his ministry, in collaboration with ZITDA, will remain committed to capturing accurate data of students for the development of education in the state.
Hajiya Maryam Yahaya Shantali, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Education, Science, and Technology, stated that the exercise would enhance education standards, address exam malpractice, and protect students' hard work.
The present administration of Governor Dauda Lawal has resolved to reposition the education sector in the state through innovation and digital solutions in line with global best practices.
