The National Business and Technical Examinations Board (NABTEB) has officially announced the final registration deadlines for the 2026 examination cycle. The board has clearly stated that no extensions will be granted beyond these dates.
Registration Deadlines Announced
According to the board, registration for the National Common Entrance Examination (NCEE) will close on Sunday, May 24. For schools registering candidates for the May/June in-school certificate examinations, the process must be completed by Sunday, May 31.
The announcement was made on Wednesday, May 13, in Benin by the board's Assistant Director of Media and Protocol, Uchechukwu Olisah, as reported by The Punch.
Urgent Call for Timely Registration
NABTEB's Registrar and Chief Executive Officer, Dr. Mohammed Mohammed, urged schools, parents, and candidates to act promptly to avoid a last-minute rush that could disrupt the registration process. He emphasized that the board has simplified the process through online platforms designed to reduce stress and improve access for schools and students across the country.
Online Portals Central to Registration
For the May/June in-school exams, schools are required to first request registration slots through their state offices, capture candidates using NABTEB biometric software, and then complete the process on the official portal. Schools must also obtain login details from state offices before making payments and finalizing registration through the designated school portal.
For the National Common Entrance Examination, candidates can either register through state offices or create personal accounts online. They can complete their details and submit registration through the official portal. Schools are also permitted to handle bulk registration using the provided login access.
Emphasis on Accuracy
Dr. Mohammed stressed that the board is pushing for a more technology-driven system to make examination administration smoother and more efficient nationwide. He also warned schools and candidates to ensure all information submitted is accurate, as errors in data could affect examination eligibility.
NABTEB advised the public to reach out to state offices or use its official registration platforms for further guidance and support.
Related Developments
Previously, Legit.ng reported that the Lagos state government commenced registration for the 2026 entrance examination into its Model Colleges and upgraded junior secondary schools. The online application process is now active, with registration closing on May 15. A fee of ₦10,000 is required, and only Primary Six pupils from public and private schools are eligible to sit for the Computer-Based Test scheduled for June 4 to June 6.
Authorities added that applicants of Lagos origin must upload a valid indigeneship certificate during registration. Parents and school administrators were advised to strictly follow all guidelines on the Lagos State Examinations Board portal.
In another development, the Federal Government announced that the National Examinations Council (NECO) will begin conducting its examinations using computer-based testing (CBT) starting in 2026. The Minister of Education stated that the reform aims to reduce examination malpractice, improve assessment credibility, and align Nigeria's education system with global standards and digital learning practices.
