Nigeria to Fully Transition to Computer-Based Exams by 2027, Says Education Minister
The Federal Government of Nigeria has unveiled a groundbreaking plan to migrate all examinations across the country to a fully computer-based testing (CBT) system by 2027.
This announcement was made by the Minister of Education, Dr. Tunji Alausa, during the inauguration of the Committee on the Improvement of Quality Examinations in Abuja on Thursday.
A Technological Shift to Combat Exam Malpractice
Dr. Alausa highlighted the government’s determination to tackle the pervasive issue of examination malpractice, which he described as a multi-faceted challenge involving students, parents, educators, and even exam regulators.
“To end this menace, we need a comprehensive strategy,” the minister remarked. “Technology is our best ally in eliminating vulnerabilities in the examination process, ensuring transparency and credibility.”
The minister outlined the responsibilities of the newly inaugurated committee, which include:
- Preventing examination leaks and malpractice.
- Addressing issues of identity theft in exams.
- Strengthening the regulation and supervision of exams.
- Overseeing the complete transition to computer-based testing.
Enhanced Security for Certificates
As part of the reforms, the government will introduce enhanced security features for examination certificates starting in the 2025 exam cycle for WAEC, NECO, and NABTEB. Certificates will now include the candidate’s National Identification Number (NIN), photograph, and date of birth, providing a robust system to prevent forgery and impersonation.
“These measures will give us near 100% certainty in candidate identification and significantly curb malpractice,” Dr. Alausa explained.
A Broader Commitment to Educational Reform
The Federal Government, under President Bola Tinubu’s administration, has prioritized investment in human capital development to support the adoption of CBT and other reforms. This commitment is part of a broader agenda to modernize the nation’s education sector and restore global confidence in Nigeria’s academic standards.
Prof. Is-haq Oloyede, the chairman of the committee and Registrar of the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB), expressed gratitude for the opportunity to lead this initiative. “We are prepared to deliver on this national mandate and set a new standard for examinations in Nigeria,” he said.
With this roadmap in place, Nigeria’s transition to 100% computer-based testing by 2027 promises to transform the education landscape, ensuring a fairer and more credible future for learners nationwide.
