The National Examinations Council now conducts its examinations in eight countries outside Nigeria, Registrar Dantani Wushishi has said.
Speaking Thursday in Abuja at the council’s 25th anniversary event, Wushishi reviewed NECO’s growth since it was established in April 1999 by the military administration of Abdulsalami Abubakar.
According to a report by The Cable, he credited former President Olusegun Obasanjo with helping to launch the body when Nigeria returned to civilian rule in May 1999. He also thanked the Niger State government for hosting the council since its inception.
Wushishi acknowledged past education ministers and former registrars, especially Dibu Ojerinde, for guiding the council through difficult periods. He said Ojerinde introduced faster result release, online registration, and internet-based systems that improved speed, transparency, and convenience for candidates and schools.
“These changes improved efficiency and strengthened public trust in NECO as a modern examination body both in Nigeria and abroad,” he said.
The registrar added that NECO’s consistent standards have earned it international recognition as a credible institution supporting educational integrity and mobility.
“This is why we are currently conducting examinations in eight countries, and still counting,” he said.
Looking ahead, Wushishi said NECO will focus on tightening exam security, expanding item banks, and strengthening anti-cheating measures. The council also plans to expand electronic services, issue digital certificates, and use data analytics to improve transparency and decision-making.
Other priorities include building partnerships with global examination bodies, investing in staff training, and widening access for learners in underserved communities through targeted outreach and fee support programs.