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The National Examinations Council (NECO) has announced that beginning with the November/December 2025 Senior School Certificate Examination (SSCE) External, candidates will sit for tests using a computer-based system, marking the end of the paper-pencil method.
The Council said the move is part of its full migration to computer-based examinations, in line with the Federal Government’s plan to adopt CBT for all school-based SSCEs by 2026.
In a statement, NECO invited interested operators of Computer-Based Examination (CBE) centres to apply for registration, stressing that only dedicated centres that meet its technical, infrastructural, and security standards will be approved.
According to the guidelines, each centre must have a minimum of 150 functional computers or laptops with 10 percent backups, a robust server, and virus-free systems with updated antivirus software. Centres are also required to install cabled CCTV with IP cameras, provide strong MTN or Airtel network coverage, and ensure trunked cables to avoid exposed wiring.
Other requirements include air-conditioned halls, candidate cubicles, visible wall clocks, and backup power supply consisting of at least a 40kVA generator and inverters with three hours’ capacity. Facilities must also include toilets, holding rooms, fenced premises, and adequate security.
NECO further warned that makeshift or shared centres, such as those in malls or cinemas, will not be accepted. It added that centre staff must be dependable and of proven integrity to safeguard the credibility of the examination process.