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Breaking News: NECO Opens Applications for CBT Centre Operators and Begins SSCE External Registration
DocuNews Central | August 27, 2025
The National Examinations Council (NECO) has made a big move that will change how millions of Nigerian students write their exams.
For the first time in history, NECO will run its Senior School Certificate Examination (SSCE) External fully on Computer-Based Testing (CBT) starting November/December 2025.
This news is confirmed by NECO’s Registrar, Professor Dantani Ibrahim Wushishi, who announced that NECO is now inviting applications from qualified Computer-Based Centre Operators across Nigeria.
Below, DocuNews Central brings you everything you need to know — the requirements for CBT operators, how candidates can register for the 2025 SSCE, the fees, the timetable, and all important guidelines.
Why NECO is Making This Move
The Federal Government earlier announced that all national exams, including WAEC and NECO, must move to CBT by 2026.
NECO has decided to start early with the SSCE External exams this year (2025).
This means no more pen and paper. All candidates will sit in computer halls, just like JAMB UTME.
NECO Calls for CBT Centre Operators
NECO is now calling on private and public operators to set up CBT centres that will meet their strict standards.
Only approved centres will be allowed to host candidates.
System Requirements for CBT Centres
For any operator to be approved by NECO, they must meet these strict computer system requirements:
At least 150 functional desktop computers or laptops.
A 10% backup (that is, at least 15 extra computers).
Each computer must have:
Intel Dual-Core Celeron or Pentium processor
4GB RAM
Minimum 32GB SSD storage
Windows 10 installed
Updated browsers (Chrome, Firefox, or Edge)
RJ45 LAN port
Monitor size: 15 inches for desktops, 17 inches for laptops.
All computers must be connected to a server that can support at least 150 systems at once.
Hall, Facilities, and Security Rules
Apart from computers, operators must provide proper exam halls and security.
Each candidate must sit in a cubicle measuring 26” × 18” × 18”.
The hall must have air conditioning, good lighting, and clean toilets.
CCTV cameras must be installed (IP-based, no wireless cameras).
Wiring must be hidden; exposed cables are not allowed.
There must be a reception or holding area for students.
The building must be fenced and used only as a CBT centre (not part of a cinema, mall, or shop).
Each hall must have a wall clock — wristwatches are not allowed.
Power and Internet Requirements
Generator of minimum 40 kVA to power 250 systems.
UPS or inverter backup that can last at least 3 hours.
Reliable MTN or Airtel mobile network coverage inside the hall.
Staffing Requirements
Each CBT centre must employ:
At least two technical staff.
At least one qualified network engineer.
NECO warns that only trusted and credible personnel will be approved.
How Operators Can Apply
- Visit NECO’s official website: 👉 www.neco.gov.ng
- Look for the CBT Centre Application Notice.
- Fill in all requirements about your hall, systems, and staff.
- NECO will inspect your centre before approval.
2025 NECO SSCE External Registration Now Open
Apart from centre operators, candidates are also called to register for the 2025 SSCE External Exams.
👉 Full guideline (official): Scribd Document – NECO SSCE External 2025
Registration Timeline
Start date: July 7, 2025
Deadline: November 18, 2025 (11:59 PM)
Late registration: November 19–25, 2025 (extra ₦5,000 fee)
Walk-in registration: ₦43,000 (on-the-spot at approved centres)
Registration Fee
Normal fee: ₦30,000 (non-refundable).
Extra bank charges may apply.
How to Register (Step by Step)
- Go to 👉 www.neco.gov.ng.
- Click on SSCE External.
- Create an account with your valid email and phone number.
- Pay the fee online.
- Do biometric fingerprint capturing at an approved centre.
- Upload your passport photo (white background, not older than 6 months).
- Provide your NIN (National Identification Number).
- Print your photocard and exam timetable.
Exam Period
The exams will run from November 26 to December 13, 2025.
Subjects Available (16)
- Agricultural Science
- Biology
- Chemistry
- Civic Education
- Christian Religious Studies
- Commerce
- Economics
- English Language
- Financial Accounting
- General Mathematics
- Geography
- Government
- Islamic Studies
- Literature-in-English
- Marketing
- Physics
Important Notes for Candidates
NIN is compulsory — it will be printed on your certificate.
Photocard must be signed by a referee (principal, lawyer, civil servant, clergyman, or officer).
Only one correction is allowed before exams (no name changes).
Arrive 30 minutes before the exam starts.
Items not allowed:
Phones
Smartwatches
Calculators with memory
Bags, weapons, or writing materials (computers will provide).
Dress code: Mufti (casual wear), no uniforms.
Summary for Readers
NECO has gone digital.
All exams will now be CBT starting Nov/Dec 2025.
Operators can now apply to run CBT centres.
Students can now register online for the SSCE External exam.
Deadline is November 18, 2025.
Useful Links
NECO official website: 👉 www.neco.gov.ng
NECO SSCE 2025 Official Guidelines: 👉 Scribd NECO 2025 SSCE External Guide
Final Word
NECO’s move to CBT is a big change for Nigerian education.
For students, this means better exams with less malpractice.
For operators, it is a business opportunity — but only if you meet NECO’s strict standards.
DocuNews Central will continue to follow this story as the November/December exam date gets closer.
Stay with us for updates.
