Certification: Nigerian Government directs examination bodies to include NIN, others

The Nigerian Government has directed all public examination bodies to adopt certificate templates with advanced security features, such as photographs, Birthday Certificate and National Identification Numbers (NIN), by June 2025.

The Minister of Education, Maruf Alausa gave the directive in Abuja, Nigeria during the inauguration of a high-powered committee to address key challenges in the educational sector, standardise examination practices, and ensure fairness and quality.

He said the ministry has mandated all the registrars of examination bodies, such as WAEC, NECO, and NABTEB, that by their next exams scheduled for May, June, and July, there will be three identifiers on the certificates they issue.

“These identifiers will be, number one, the national identification number of the candidates. Number two, the picture of the candidate must be embossed on the certificates. And number three, their date of birth. By having these three identifiers, we will ensure almost 100% certainty in identifying candidates,” he said.

Alausa said the Federal Government has also set a target to transition Nigeria’s examination system to 100% computer-based testing (CBT) by 2027.

“I also discussed the importance of transitioning to computer-based exams by 2027 and combating local swapping of candidates during exams.”

He stressed the importance of leveraging technology, as exemplified by JAMB, to eliminate malpractice and restore public trust.

“This is not a fight against students but a collective effort to secure the future of education in Nigeria. With integrity and hard work, we can build a system that prepares our youth to contribute meaningfully to national and global development.”

The Minister expressed commitment to Strengthening of education standards in the country.

The committee headed by Professor Ishaq Oloyede, the Registrar of JAMB comprised of  representatives from JAMB, WAEC, NECO, NABTEB, ANCOPSS, and the Nigeria Union of Teachers.

The Minister mandated the committee members to come up with ways of eliminating examination leakages1 and fraud, addressing identity theft and result falsification, transitioning to computer-based testing (CBT) within three years, (2027),developing criteria for effective examination supervision, and designing mechanisms for combating local swapping of candidates during examinations to curb cheating.

Alausa urged all Nigerians, especially parents, guardians, educators, and students—to join in the fight against examination malpractice.

 “Together, we can end this menace and safeguard the integrity of our education system.”

Alausa equally highlighted the vital role of education as a foundation for human capital development and societal progress, while emphasizing on the President Bola Tinubu administration’s unwavering commitment to improving access to quality education, healthcare, and social protection programs.

Chairman of the committee, Professor Ishaq Oloyede commended the Minister for his visionary leadership and proactive approach. He acknowledged the global rise in examination malpractice and its negative impact on Nigeria’s educational standards.

“This is a national war, and we must rise to the occasion,” he said.

Oloyede said that the committee will  commence work immediately, promising to deliver concrete and actionable outcomes.

On behalf of the Commissioners of Education across Nigeria, Hajia Saadat Madibbo Kawu emphasized the importance of addressing examination challenges to ensure the delivery of quality education.

“This is a service to our country and a step towards securing the future of our children. Under Professor Oloyede’s leadership,” she stated.

The committee is expected to submit its recommendations by June 2025,