Education Minister Pledges Overhaul of Exam System Amid Alarming UTME Results
Minister of Education, Tunji Alausa, addressed public concerns over declining examination performance during an appearance on Channels Television’s The Morning Brief on Tuesday. His remarks came in response to the recent 2025 UTME results, which showed that over 1.5 million of 1.95 million candidates scored below 200 out of 400.
Alausa expressed deep concern about the results but noted they reflect the improved integrity of the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board’s (JAMB) computer-based testing (CBT) system. “JAMB has nearly eliminated cheating, thanks to strict security and digital testing,” he said. “Unfortunately, WAEC and NECO have not achieved this standard.”
The minister revealed that a diagnostic review of national examinations had been conducted shortly after he assumed office. A committee was tasked with assessing exam procedures nationwide, and its report is expected soon.
As a key reform, Alausa announced that WAEC and NECO will begin transitioning to CBT in November 2025, starting with objective questions, while full implementation—including essay sections—is set for May/June 2026. “We must embrace technology to curb fraud,” he said. “Too many miracle centres exist, making exam malpractice rampant. Students who cheat during WAEC or NECO face the reality of JAMB where that’s no longer possible.”
He stressed that widespread cheating harms not just academic standards but also demotivates honest students. “Why would a student study hard when their peers already have leaked questions?” he asked. “This culture of malpractice corrupts even the best students.”
Asked whether poor performance is due to weak enforcement or a real drop in learning, Alausa acknowledged both factors but emphasized that systemic cheating is a root issue. “We are working on improving teaching quality and supporting learning through digital tools. But unless we fix the environment of dishonesty in WAEC and NECO, progress will be limited,” he said.
The minister confirmed ongoing collaboration with WAEC, NECO, NABTEB, and NBAIS to ensure a smooth transition to CBT. “There’s no turning back. By 2026, all major national exams will be fully digital,” he declared.
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