The Association for Formidable Educational Development has successfully conducted its 2026 National Unified Examination for primary school pupils across 12 states in Nigeria, as part of efforts to prepare learners for a smooth transition into secondary education.

The examination, targeted at terminal elementary pupils, is designed to assess academic readiness while building confidence ahead of major entrance examinations into secondary schools.

National President of the association, Orji Emmanuel, described the exercise as a significant milestone for candidates who have undergone months of preparation. He encouraged pupils to remain calm and confident, noting that the examination provides an opportunity to demonstrate their knowledge and skills.

He also stressed the importance of discipline and integrity during the examination, warning against malpractice and urging candidates to follow all instructions given by supervisors. According to him, exceptional performance could earn top candidates recognition at the association’s national conference.

Strong Participation Across Lagos

In Lagos State, the unified mock examination was held simultaneously in about 60 centres, with pupils arriving as early as 7:00 a.m. for the scheduled 8:00 a.m. start.

The State Controller, James Lartey-Lartey, explained that the examination has remained a reliable preparatory tool for nearly two decades. He noted that it helps Primary Six pupils identify their strengths and weaknesses, enabling them to improve before sitting for external examinations.

He shared a success story of a pupil who initially did not rank among the top candidates but later improved significantly after identifying weak areas, eventually scoring 78 percent in a federal government college entrance examination and securing admission.

Impact on Pupils and Schools

The examination recorded full participation and orderly conduct in several monitored centres, including Team Potters Gate Primary School, Rosemmauel Primary School, and De Expert College.

At the Ojokoro Local Council Development Area (LCDA), the Chairman, Meshileya Sunday-Samuel, revealed that 275 pupils registered for the examination and all were present. He expressed optimism that some candidates from the area would be recognised at the national conference.

Also speaking, AFED Lagos State Treasurer, Abioye Funmilola Elizabeth, highlighted that the annual examination serves as a unifying platform for member schools while preparing pupils for government placement tests. She added that the questions are centrally set to ensure uniform academic standards nationwide.

Similarly, the Chairperson of Odi-Olowo Chapter, Leonard Alajemba, represented by Smart Alajemba, explained that the exercise helps teachers assess pupils’ readiness and identify areas requiring improvement ahead of final examinations.

Nationwide Educational Initiative

According to AFED’s Media and Communications Officer, Sufi Olatunji Saheed, the examination was conducted across multiple states, including the Federal Capital Territory.

He noted that the initiative is aimed at equipping pupils with essential examination experience while boosting their confidence ahead of the Common Entrance Examination into secondary schools.

Education stakeholders expressed satisfaction with the smooth conduct of the exercise and reaffirmed their commitment to maintaining standards that promote academic excellence among pupils nationwide.