The National Business and Technical Examination Board (NABTEB) has announced an extension of the registration period for the 2026 National Common Entrance Examination (NCEE) into Technical Colleges.
The extension aims to ensure a smooth process for all stakeholders involved.
In a statement issued on Sunday in Benin, the Registrar and Chief Executive Officer of NABTEB, Mr. Aminu Mohammed, confirmed the extension. The announcement was relayed by the board’s Deputy Director of Media and Protocol, Mr. Uchechukwu Olisah.
Mr. Mohammed explained that the board has approved a four-month registration window, starting on January 26 and closing on May 24. The examination itself will take place nationwide on June 6. This extension was made with the intention of easing pressure on candidates and their families during the registration process.
The registrar added that the extended timeline was part of a deliberate policy decision aimed at reducing congestion on the registration platform, providing more time for adequate preparation, and minimizing financial and logistical burdens on parents and guardians.
“This policy decision was made after the Minister of Education, Dr. Tunji Alausa, approved the 2026 examination and registration framework,” Mohammed stated.
He further assured that NABTEB had strengthened its administrative and technological systems to ensure a user-friendly and disruption-free registration process. The board has put in place measures to guarantee a smooth and stress-free registration experience for all parties while maintaining the highest standards of examination integrity.
Mr. Mohammed also urged prospective candidates to register exclusively through the official NABTEB online portal and avoid third-party platforms or unauthorized agents. “All applications must be processed through NABTEB’s official portal. Candidates and guardians are advised to complete their registration ahead of the deadline to avoid any last-minute difficulties,” he advised.
The NABTEB chief executive reaffirmed the board’s commitment to professionalism, transparency, and its role in expanding access to technical education. He emphasized that technical and vocational education plays a crucial role in equipping young Nigerians with the practical skills necessary for national development.
“Technical and Vocational Education and Training provides young people with competencies that are vital for employability, entrepreneurship, and economic self-reliance. We urge Nigerians to choose skills, choose opportunity, and choose a secure future,” he said.
NABTEB will continue to collaborate with the Federal Ministry of Education and other stakeholders to strengthen skills-based education and support Nigeria’s broader human capital development goals.