The Federal Government has unveiled new measures to curb examination malpractice in Nigeria, mandating that all examination certificates must include candidates’ National Identification Numbers (NIN), photographs, and birthdates starting from the next examination cycles in May, June, and July 2025.
Education Minister Tunji Alausa, speaking during the inauguration of the Committee on Improvement of Quality Examinations in Nigeria in Abuja, emphasized that this policy will enhance the authenticity of results and ensure candidates’ identities are verifiable.
“I’ve directed registrars of examination bodies like WAEC, NECO, and NABTEB to implement these three identifiers on all issued certificates. This will guarantee almost 100% certainty in identifying candidates,” Alausa stated.
He further disclosed that the government is targeting a full transition to computer-based examinations by 2027, leveraging technology to overhaul Nigeria’s examination system.
“This change aims to address malpractice at every level, involving students, parents, teachers, principals, and even regulators. The committee will also work to prevent local swapping of candidates,” he added.
These reforms come amidst heightened concerns about the impact of malpractice on the education system, with the Minister warning that unchecked fraud could undermine the efforts of hardworking students.
