The Federal Government has announced that from the year 2026, all WAEC and NECO exams will no longer be done with pen and paper. Instead, students will use computers to take their exams. This system is called Computer-Based Test (CBT). It’s the same method used by JAMB for UTME exams.
This big change was announced by the Minister of Education, Dr. Tunji Alausa, during a visit to Sascon International School, Maitama in Abuja. He was there to check how the new computer-based exams were going for some NECO students.
What Is CBT?
CBT means Computer-Based Test. Instead of writing answers with pen on paper, students will now click answers on a computer screen.
If you’ve ever taken JAMB UTME, then you already know how CBT works. Now, WAEC and NECO are planning to do the same.
Why Is the Government Making This Change?
According to the Minister of Education, there are many reasons for this big move:
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To stop exam cheating:
Every year, many students and even some schools are caught cheating during WAEC or NECO. With CBT, questions are protected better, and it’s harder to cheat. -
To improve the quality of exams:
Computer tests can be marked faster and more accurately. This means better results for students and fewer mistakes. -
To support Nigerian tech businesses:
The government wants to support the many private CBT centres across Nigeria. These centres have spent a lot of money to set up computers, software, and networks. So now, they will also be used for WAEC and NECO, not just JAMB. -
To create more jobs:
As more CBT centres are used, more Nigerians will be employed to run them — from technicians to computer experts and cleaners. -
To help the environment:
Using computers means using less paper. That helps save trees and reduce waste.
When Will the Change Happen?
The change will happen in stages:
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2025: Only objective questions in WAEC and NECO will be CBT.
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2026: Both objective and essay questions will be CBT.
So, by 2026, the whole exam — from start to finish — will be done on a computer.
Are the CBT Centres Ready?
The government says there are thousands of CBT centres across Nigeria, both public and private. These centres are already being used for JAMB. So, they will now be used for WAEC and NECO too.
According to the Education Minister, many schools don’t have enough computers for their students. That’s why students will go to these special CBT centres to take their exams — not in their school halls anymore.
But what about students in rural areas or villages?
The Registrar of NECO, Professor Ibrahim Dantani Wushishi, says NECO is ready for the new CBT system. He agrees that there are some places where computers are hard to find. But he’s asking state governments to quickly build and provide computer centres so no student will be left behind.
He said:
“We are ready as a professional body to conduct exams using any method. We know that some areas may have problems, but that will not stop us. We are very ready.”
Who Is Supporting This Change?
Many top leaders in Nigeria support this new CBT move.
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Senator Ekong Samson, Vice Chairman of the Senate Committee on Education, said:
“We live in a tech age. Nigeria must move forward. We will do everything needed to support this change.”
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Hon. Oboku Oforji, Chairman of the House of Reps Committee on Exam Bodies, added:
“NECO is doing very well. We are proud of them. The exams are smooth, and the CBT plan is great.”
What Does This Mean for Students?
If you’re a student in SS2 or SS3 right now, here’s what you need to know:
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You will soon stop using paper to write WAEC and NECO exams.
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You will learn how to use a computer for exams — especially how to use a mouse and keyboard, and how to answer questions on screen.
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Computer knowledge is now a must. Schools must start teaching students how to use computers, not just in theory, but in practice.
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If you don’t have a computer at home, don’t worry — you will likely use one at a CBT centre near you during the exam.
What About Students in Remote Areas?
NECO and the government know that some villages and towns don’t have electricity or internet. That’s why they said:
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They will work with state governments to build more CBT centres.
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They will make sure no student is left behind.
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For now, some students may still write exams the old way until CBT centres are ready in their areas.
What Are the Benefits of CBT for Students?
Here are some good things CBT brings for students:
Faster results – No more long waits for results. Fewer mistakes in marking – Computers don’t make errors like humans. Less cheating – This gives honest students a better chance. Better exam experience – You get used to technology, which is important for jobs in the future. More confidence – Students will feel proud using modern tools like computers.
Are Parents Ready?
Parents also need to understand the changes. They should:
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Encourage their children to practice using computers.
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Support schools to get ICT teachers and computers.
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Know that CBT is the future and help their children prepare for it.
Final Words: Get Ready, Nigeria!
CBT is here to stay. WAEC and NECO exams are changing for the better — faster, cleaner, safer, and smarter.
The year 2026 will mark a new beginning for Nigeria’s education system. If we all work together — students, teachers, parents, and government — this change will succeed and make Nigeria proud.
So, start learning how to use a computer today! See flier below to get started!