The Federal Government has mandated the West African Examinations Council (WAEC) and the National Examinations Council (NECO) to transition fully to Computer-Based Testing (CBT) for all their examinations by 2026.

The Minister of Education, Dr. Tunji Alausa, made the announcement on Monday while monitoring ongoing examinations in Bwari, Abuja, in collaboration with officials from the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB).

Dr. Alausa revealed that both WAEC and NECO would commence the use of CBT for administering objective papers starting in November this year. He further stated that by the May/June 2026 examination cycle, all components—including both objective and essay sections—would be fully conducted via CBT.

“If JAMB can successfully conduct CBT exams for more than 2.2 million candidates, WAEC and NECO can do the same,” Alausa said. “By 2026, both the objectives and the essay papers will be fully on CBT. That is how we can eliminate exam malpractices.”

The minister emphasized that this move is part of the government’s broader efforts to modernize the education sector and ensure greater integrity and efficiency in national examinations.

Alausa also disclosed that a national committee is currently reviewing examination standards across the country. The committee is expected to submit its recommendations next month, potentially informing further reforms.

The directive marks a significant shift in Nigeria’s examination landscape, aligning WAEC and NECO with the digital innovations already embraced by JAMB.