The National Examinations Council (NECO) has announced a major shift in its examination process, confirming that it will fully adopt Computer Based Examinations (CBE) from 2025.
In a statement issued on Wednesday, the Council said the transition would begin with the 2025 November/December edition of the Senior School Certificate Examination (SSCE) for external candidates. The move marks a significant departure from the traditional paper and pencil testing format, as NECO seeks to improve examination integrity, operational efficiency, and digital adoption in Nigeria’s education sector.
This development aligns with the Federal Government’s broader policy direction. In July, the government disclosed that privately owned and publicly operated Computer Based Test (CBT) centres would be deployed for the school based SSCE by 2026.
NECO Opens Registration for CBT Centres
As part of preparations for the transition, NECO has called on interested CBT centre operators nationwide to apply for registration. However, only centres that meet strict technical, infrastructural, and security standards will be accredited.
“All CBT centres must be dedicated, year round facilities,” NECO stated, stressing that makeshift centres such as those in cinemas, shopping malls, or market complexes will not be approved.
CBT Centre Requirements
The Council has issued comprehensive guidelines covering system specifications, hall standards, personnel, and security measures. The key requirements include:
A. System Specifications
- Minimum of 150 functional desktop computers or laptops, with 10 percent (15 systems) as backup.
- Each system must have an Intel based Dual Core Celeron or Pentium processor, at least 4GB RAM, and a minimum of 32GB SSD storage.
- All systems must run Windows 10 and have up to date versions of Chrome, Firefox, or Microsoft Edge installed.
- Computers must be connected using a cabled Local Area Network (LAN) in a star topology; wireless networks are not permitted.
- Systems must be protected with active antivirus software and linked to a central server capable of supporting 150 concurrent connections.
- Centres must use gigabit switches, with at least two backups, and ensure uninterrupted power supply to all switches.
B. Examination Hall Standards
7. Each candidate must be seated in an individual cubicle measuring at least 26 inches in length, 18 inches in breadth, and 18 inches in height.
8. Examination halls must be air conditioned and properly lit, with visible wall clocks, as candidates will not be allowed to wear wristwatches.
9. CCTV surveillance with wired IP cameras is mandatory; wireless CCTV systems are not allowed.
10. All cables must be trunked. Exposed or loose cables are prohibited.
11. Centres must have strong MTN or Airtel network coverage for connectivity.
C. Facilities and Personnel
12. Backup power supply must include a minimum 40 kVA generator and UPS or inverter systems capable of running all systems for at least three hours.
13. Each centre must have at least two technical staff and one network engineer on site during examinations.
14. All personnel must be trustworthy individuals of proven integrity to safeguard the credibility of the examination process.
15. Centres must have internal toilet facilities, holding or reception areas for candidates, and be adequately fenced and secured.
NECO stressed that accredited centres must remain functional and properly maintained throughout the year, not only during examination periods.
With this transition, NECO joins other national examination bodies in adopting digital solutions to enhance assessment standards and curb examination malpractice. The Council urged qualified operators to submit applications promptly to meet accreditation deadlines ahead of the 2025 rollout.
