Challenges faced by the National Examinations Council (NECO) in ensuring fair exams in Nigeria include poor infrastructure, increased candidate enrollments, lack of funding, exam malpractice, and leaks of question papers. This was revealed by Prof. Dantani Ibrahim Wushishi, the Registrar of NECO, during a retreat held in Abuja.
Wushishi emphasized the importance of strong legislation in aligning Nigerian qualifications with global standards. He affirmed NECO’s commitment to enhancing the national assessment system to promote educational excellence, despite the hurdles encountered.
Addressing the obstacles, Wushishi highlighted issues such as infrastructure limitations, rising candidate numbers, insufficient funding, exam malpractice, and question paper leaks, all contributing to the decline in educational standards.
He stressed that these challenges underscore the urgent necessity for a comprehensive national examination law that governs all exam-related facets in Nigeria. Currently, the absence of such legislation leaves the system susceptible due to the fragmented regulations maintained by different exam bodies and schools.
Furthermore, Wushishi put forward a proposed bill named “The Conduct of Examinations in Nigeria”, urging the National Assembly members to consider it. He advocated for a future where Nigerian exams are conducted fairly and equitably.