NECO Expands International Operations as Exams Hold in Eight Countries

NECO Expands International Reach as Exams Hold in Eight Countries

The National Examinations Council has announced that its examinations are now being conducted in eight countries outside Nigeria, marking a major milestone in the council’s international expansion.

The Registrar of NECO, Dantani Wushishi, disclosed this during the council’s 25th anniversary celebration held in Abuja on May 7. He used the occasion to highlight the institution’s growth and achievements since its establishment in 1999.

According to Wushishi, NECO’s growing international presence reflects the increasing global recognition of the council as a credible examination body that supports academic advancement and student mobility. He explained that the expansion demonstrates confidence in the quality and reliability of NECO certificates beyond Nigeria’s borders.

The registrar also praised former education administrators and previous NECO leadership teams for introducing reforms that transformed the examination body over the years. Among the key reforms mentioned were the introduction of online registration systems and internet-based result processing, which replaced slower manual methods.

He noted that the digital transformation has significantly improved the speed of result release, reduced delays, and increased transparency in examination management. According to him, these improvements have strengthened public trust in the council both locally and internationally.

Wushishi further revealed that NECO plans to improve examination security and strengthen measures against malpractice to protect the integrity of its assessments. The council also aims to modernize its question management systems and expand digital services, including electronic certificates and data-driven operations to improve user experience.

In addition, NECO intends to deepen collaboration with international examination bodies, enhance staff training, and widen access to examination services for candidates in underserved communities through targeted policies and support programmes.

The examination body was established in April 1999 during the administration of former Head of State Abdulsalami Abubakar. Nigeria later returned to democratic rule under former President Olusegun Obasanjo, whom Wushishi credited for supporting the early development of the council. He also acknowledged the consistent support provided by the Niger State Government over the years.

As NECO continues to expand its global footprint and embrace digital innovation, the council is positioning itself as one of Africa’s leading examination bodies committed to quality, transparency, and accessible education.