Pat Stevens/
The National Examinations Council (NECO) has announced that it will scrap paper-based examinations from November/December 2025, making computer-based testing (CBT) mandatory for all future Senior School Certificate Examination (SSCE) sittings.
This change means students will now write their SSCE using computers instead of the traditional paper-and-pencil format. Candidates will have to adapt to typing answers, navigating digital exam interfaces, and managing time on-screen.
NECO officials say the shift will reduce examination malpractice, speed up result processing, and ensure greater efficiency.
To ensure smooth transition, the Council has listed strict requirements for CBT centres across Nigeria.
Interested operators must provide a minimum of 150 functional computers or laptops, 10 percent backups, robust servers, virus-free systems, and gigabit LAN connectivity.
Examination halls must meet specified standards, including individual cubicles of approved dimensions, effective air-conditioning, proper lighting, cabled CCTV with IP cameras, visible wall clocks (since wristwatches remain banned), and strong MTN or Airtel network signals.
Makeshift or shared-premises centres will not be accepted.
Facilities and staffing are also under tight rules. Centres must provide backup power with at least a 40kVA generator and inverters or UPS that can last three hours.
They are expected to employ two technical personnel and a network engineer, maintain internal toilets, holding rooms, and ensure adequate fencing and security.
NECO stressed that only dedicated CBT centres, maintained throughout the year, will be approved to guarantee examination credibility.
The new system also aligns with the Federal Government’s plan to fully adopt CBT for public and private centres by 2026.
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