Over 35 million candidates have written NECO exams in 25 years – Registrar

Over 35 million candidates have written examinations conducted by the National Examinations Council, NECO, in the last 25 years, according to the Registrar and Chief Executive, Professor Dantani Wushishi.

Wushishi disclosed this at the Council’s 25th anniversary gala and awards night in Minna, where he said NECO, established on July 10, 1999, was created to provide a national alternative examination body following long-standing demands for a credible and locally responsive assessment institution.

He said the figure of about 35 million candidates reflects cumulative participation in NECO examinations over the years, including the Senior School Certificate Examination (SSCE) and other assessments conducted by the Council.

The Registrar also referenced the institutional background of NECO, noting that its creation followed recommendations from government panels between 1977 and 1997, which repeatedly highlighted the need for a national examination body.

The event also featured the presentation of a Lifetime Achievement Award to Emeritus Professor Dibu Ojerinde, former NECO Registrar from 1999 to 2007 and ex-JAMB Registrar, in recognition of his role in the early development of the council.

NECO also recognised schools and states based on performance indicators in its SSCE Internal examinations since inception.

Dority International Early Learning School was named the overall best-performing secondary school, followed by Federal Government Academy and Air Force Comprehensive School.

In the state category, Bayelsa State was recognised for recording the highest percentage of candidates with five credits and above, while Lagos State was acknowledged for registering the highest number of candidates for NECO examinations.

Ogun, Edo, Kaduna and Oyo states were also recognised for various performance outcomes in the SSCE Internal results.

Wushishi said the Council would continue to review its processes and adopt technology-driven approaches to improve examination administration and maintain standards.