The National Examinations Council (NECO) has disclosed that more than 35 million candidates have taken part in its examinations since the agency was established 25 years ago, describing the figure as a reflection of its growing role in Nigeria’s education system.
The Registrar and Chief Executive of NECO, Prof. Dantani Wushishi, made the disclosure at a Gala and Awards Night in Abuja on Thursday, held as part of activities marking the council’s silver jubilee.
Speaking on the theme, “Celebrating 25 Years of NECO’s Excellence in Educational Assessment,” Wushishi said NECO was created on July 10, 1999, following widespread calls for a credible and nationally focused examination body.
He noted that the council was born out of recommendations from several government committees between 1977 and 1997, which stressed the need for a homegrown institution that reflects Nigeria’s educational realities.
“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 said.
Wushishi described the anniversary as not only a celebration of longevity but also an opportunity to reflect on progress and strengthen commitment to innovation and excellence.
He reaffirmed NECO’s resolve to maintain high standards through technology-driven processes, stronger stakeholder collaboration, and continuous reforms in human capital development.
A key highlight of the event was the presentation of the Lifetime Achievement Award, NECO’s highest honour, to former JAMB Registrar, Emeritus Professor Dibu Ojerinde, who also served as NECO’s pioneer registrar from 1999 to 2007.
The council said the award recognised his foundational role in establishing and stabilising NECO during its early years.
“The award is reserved for individuals whose contributions have created enduring institutional legacies and strengthened national assessment standards,” the Council noted.
NECO also recognised top-performing schools and states for outstanding results in the Senior School Certificate Examination (SSCE) over the years.
Dority International Early Learning School emerged as the best-performing secondary school, while Federal Government Academy and Air Force Comprehensive School placed second and third.
In the state category, Bayelsa State, represented by Governor Douye Diri, was honoured for the highest percentage of candidates with five credits and above in NECO SSCE internal examinations since inception.
Governors Dapo Abiodun of Ogun State, Monday Okpebholo of Edo State, Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos State, Uba Sani of Kaduna State, and Seyi Makinde of Oyo State were also recognised for various achievements linked to candidate performance and participation.
Wushishi thanked staff, governments, schools, partners, and stakeholders for their support over the past 25 years, pledging continued commitment to integrity, transparency, and excellence in national assessments.