The National Examinations Council (NECO) has announced that over 35 million candidates have participated in its various examinations since its inception 25 years ago, underscoring the council’s growing influence on educational assessment and national development.
During the Gala and Awards Night held in Abuja on Thursday to commemorate NECO’s silver jubilee, Registrar and Chief Executive, Prof. Dantani Wushishi, highlighted the council’s foundational history. Established on July 10, 1999, NECO was born out of intense public demand for a credible, efficient examination body that is responsive to the needs of Nigeria’s education system.
Wushishi revealed that NECO’s formation was influenced by recommendations from several government panels and committees established between 1977 and 1997, which all pointed to the urgent need for a locally developed examination institution to address the specific educational challenges faced by Nigeria.
Describing the anniversary as an occasion for more than just celebrating longevity, Wushishi noted that it was also an opportunity for reflection and recognition of NECO’s achievements, as well as a moment to renew the commitment to innovation and excellence in educational assessment.
He reassured stakeholders of NECO’s dedication to maintaining high standards through the adoption of technology-driven examination processes, strengthening collaboration with partners, and investing continuously in human capital and institutional reforms.
“Over the last 25 years, our work has touched the lives of almost 35 million Nigerians through various examinations.
“This reflects the trust reposed in NECO and our unwavering commitment to fairness, credibility, and integrity in examination administration,” he disclosed.
