Education Minister Introduces New Identifiers on Exam Certificates to Combat Malpractice
The Minister of Education, Tunji Alausa, announced a significant measure to combat examination malpractice in Nigeria by introducing three key identifiers on examination certificates. These identifiers—national identification numbers, candidates’ photos, and birthdates—are aimed at ensuring the authenticity of results and protecting the integrity of the examination process.
Speaking during the inauguration of the Committee on Improvement of Quality Examinations in Nigeria in Abuja, the Minister highlighted that examination malpractice was a growing threat that needed urgent attention. He warned that unchecked malpractice would undermine the efforts of diligent students who strive to improve themselves academically.
Alausa revealed that all registrars of examination bodies, including WAEC, NECO, and NAPTEB, had been directed to implement the new identifiers by the next examination periods in May, June, and July 2025.
He said, “I’ve mandated all the registrars of our examination bodies that by their next examinations, there will be three identifiers on the certificates they issue: the national identification number of the candidates, their picture on the certificates, and their date of birth.”
With the addition of these identifiers, the Minister emphasized that the new system would ensure near 100% certainty in identifying candidates, thus enhancing the credibility of examination results across the country.
