NABTEB Extends 2026 Technical College Entrance Registration

The National Business and Technical Examination Board (NABTEB) has extended the registration timeline for the 2026 National Common Entrance Examination (NCEE) into technical colleges, in a move aimed at easing pressure on candidates, parents and schools.

Naijaonpoint reports that the Registrar and Chief Executive Officer of NABTEB, Dr Aminu Mohammed, disclosed this in a statement issued on Sunday in Benin by the board’s Deputy Director, Media and Protocol, Uchechukwu Olisah.

Mohammed said the board had approved a four-month registration period for the examination, following the approval of the 2026 examination and registration framework by the Minister of Education, Dr Tunji Alausa.

According to him, registration will commence on January 26 and close on May 24, while the examination will be conducted nationwide on June 6.

He explained that the extended window was designed to reduce the usual rush associated with registration exercises and to lessen the financial and logistical burden on families.

“This extended timeline is a deliberate policy decision to allow adequate preparation, reduce congestion on the registration platform and minimise financial and logistical burdens on parents and guardians,” the registrar said.

The NABTEB chief executive said the board had strengthened its administrative and technological infrastructure to ensure a smooth and user-friendly registration process.

He noted that measures had been put in place to make the exercise accessible and free from disruptions.

“NABTEB has put in place comprehensive measures to guarantee a smooth and stress-free registration experience for candidates, parents, guardians and schools, while maintaining the highest standards of examination integrity,” Mohammed stated.

Mohammed urged prospective candidates to register only through the official NABTEB online portal, warning against the use of unauthorised agents and third-party platforms.

“All applications must be processed exclusively through NABTEB’s official portal,” he said.

“Candidates and guardians are advised to complete their registration well ahead of the deadline to avoid last-minute challenges.”

Reaffirming the board’s commitment to professionalism and transparency, the registrar said NABTEB remained focused on expanding access to technical education while safeguarding the credibility of its examinations.

He added that the board would continue to collaborate with the Federal Ministry of Education and other stakeholders to strengthen skills-based education in the country.

Mohammed also encouraged Nigerians to take advantage of opportunities offered by Technical and Vocational Education and Training, describing it as a viable pathway to employable skills, entrepreneurship and economic self-reliance.

“Technical and Vocational Education and Training equips young people with practical competencies required for national development,” he said.

“Nigerians are encouraged to choose skills, choose opportunity and choose a secure future.”