The National Examinations Council (NECO) releases the 2025 Senior School Certificate Examination (SSCE) External results, showing that 71.63 per cent of candidates record five credits, including English Language and Mathematics.
Mediaplusng.com reports that the Registrar and Chief Executive Officer of NECO, Professor Dantani Wushishi, announces the results at the council’s headquarters in Minna, Niger State. He says 68,166 candidates achieve five credits with English and Mathematics, while a total of 82,082 candidates, representing 86.26 per cent, score five credits and above across different subjects.
According to NECO, a total of 96,979 candidates register for the 2025 SSCE External examination. Out of this number, 51,823 candidates, representing 53.43 per cent, are male, while 45,156 candidates, representing 46.56 per cent, are female. However, 95,160 candidates eventually sit for the examination nationwide.
Mediaplusng.com also reports that the actual number of candidates who sit for the examination includes 50,785 males, representing 53.36 per cent, and 44,375 females, representing 46.63 per cent. NECO says the figures reflect sustained interest in the external examination, which provides opportunities for private candidates to obtain secondary school certification.
Breaking down performance by subjects, Professor Wushishi explains that English Language records strong outcomes. He says 73,167 candidates sit for English Language, out of which 78.32 per cent score credit and above. Mathematics performance is even higher, with 85,256 candidates, representing 91.35 per cent, achieving credit and above in the subject.
The NECO registrar describes the overall performance as encouraging, noting that the results show gradual improvement in candidates’ academic outcomes. He attributes the improvement to better preparation by candidates, improved examination processes, and increased awareness of examination standards.
However, NECO also raises concern over the rise in examination malpractice. Professor Wushishi reveals that 9,016 candidates are booked for various forms of malpractice during the 2025 SSCE External examination. This figure represents an increase of 31.7 per cent compared to the 6,160 candidates booked in 2024.
He explains that the council identifies different forms of malpractice, including impersonation, collusion, and the use of unauthorized materials. NECO says it remains committed to maintaining the integrity of its examinations despite the challenges.
In addition to candidates, NECO takes disciplinary action against officials involved in malpractice. The registrar discloses that five supervisors are recommended for blacklisting for aiding and abetting examination malpractice. The affected supervisors include two from the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) and one each from Kano, Adamawa, and Ondo states.
NECO also sanctions examination centres found to be involved in serious violations. According to Professor Wushishi, four centres are recommended for de-recognition due to whole-centre malpractice. Two of the centres are located in Niger State, while one each is in Yobe and Kano states.
The council says these measures are necessary to deter malpractice and protect the credibility of the SSCE certificate. NECO stresses that any centre or official found guilty of compromising examination standards will face strict sanctions.
Professor Wushishi urges candidates to check their results through official channels only. He advises candidates to access their 2025 SSCE External results on the NECO official website using their examination registration numbers.
He also cautions candidates against patronising fraudsters or unofficial platforms, warning that NECO does not authorize third parties to issue or alter results. According to him, candidates with complaints or issues should follow established procedures through NECO offices.
Education stakeholders say the release of the 2025 SSCE External results is significant, especially for candidates seeking admission into tertiary institutions or meeting employment requirements. Many note that the strong performance in Mathematics and English could improve candidates’ chances in future academic pursuits.
Despite the concerns over malpractice, analysts say the overall outcome reflects steady progress in Nigeria’s examination system. They urge continued investment in candidate preparation, examination monitoring, and public awareness to further improve results and reduce misconduct.
As candidates begin to access their results, NECO reiterates its commitment to transparency, fairness, and continuous improvement in the conduct of national examinations. The council says it will continue to strengthen its systems to ensure that certificates issued truly reflect candidates’ academic abilities.
