NABTEB asked Zamfara to move students writing exams from unsafe areas to safer places.
Over 89,000 candidates are writing this year’s exams, with calls for better school facilities and safety.
The Registrar and Chief Executive of the National Business and Technical Examinations Board (NABTEB), Dr. Mohammed Aminu Mohammed, has called on the Zamfara State Government to adopt proactive safety measures by relocating students writing NABTEB examinations from insecure rural areas to safer urban centers.
Speaking after monitoring the ongoing examinations at Government Technical College (GTC), Malali in Kaduna, Dr. Mohammed cited Kaduna State’s example as a model worth replicating. He praised Governor Uba Sani for relocating candidates from flashpoints like Kajuru Local Government Area to secure exam centers within the city, without being prompted by NABTEB.
“I must commend the Kaduna State Government. Without any official request from us, the governor made sure that students from Kajuru were brought to safer locations in Kaduna metropolis to write their exams. This proactive effort is a clear demonstration of leadership and a step other states should consider emulating,” Dr. Mohammed stated.
The NABTEB boss said the decision helped ensure the safety of candidates and maintain the credibility of the examination process. He called on other states, particularly Zamfara, where insecurity remains a challenge, to consider similar arrangements.
As the 2025 NABTEB exams continue across Nigeria, Dr. Mohammed revealed that over 89,000 candidates have registered to take part, an increase from the 60,000 recorded in 2024. The exams began on June 16 and will run until July 14.
He noted that NABTEB examinations are of comparable standards to other national assessments like WAEC, NECO, and NBAIS. “This is a national examination in every sense. Our standards are on par with others, and schools across Nigeria should take advantage of what we offer,” he said.
While commending the orderly conduct and integrity at the GTC Malali examination center, Dr. Mohammed expressed concern over the school’s poor infrastructure. During his visit, he observed some candidates taking their exams while standing or squatting due to a lack of desks and chairs.
“It’s disheartening to see students writing exams in such uncomfortable conditions. It creates an environment that could encourage malpractice. We’ve spoken with the school leadership and will begin a collaboration aimed at improving the facilities. By next year, we hope this center will be transformed,” he assured.
Mr. Auta Monday, Principal of Government Technical College Malali, confirmed that 169 students are sitting for the exams at the center this year. Despite the infrastructure issues, he said the exams have been running smoothly, and materials were delivered on time.
He described the registrar’s visit as a major morale boost for the institution. “His visit has opened up several avenues for innovation. The idea of establishing a Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) center here is something we’ve gladly embraced. We’re also planning to upgrade our computer lab in readiness for future computer-based testing,” Mr. Monday added.
Dr. Mohammed emphasized the importance of investing in technical and vocational education, noting that it is critical for youth development and national progress. He urged all stakeholders, including state governments and school administrators, to commit to strengthening Nigeria’s technical education system.
As the examination enters its second week, NABTEB continues to monitor centers nationwide to ensure adherence to standards and to address any emerging issues. The board has reiterated its commitment to transparency, quality, and providing equal opportunity to all candidates regardless of their location or background.
