The Federal Government has officially released the results of the 2026 National Common Entrance Examination (NCEE), with 10 candidates emerging as the highest scorers, each recording 202 marks out of a maximum obtainable score of 210.
The Minister of State for Education, Prof. Suwaiba Ahmad, announced the release of the results on Thursday in Abuja after receiving the examination report from the National Examinations Council (NECO).
According to the minister, 70,357 candidates registered for the examination into Nigeria’s 80 Federal Government Colleges (Unity Colleges). Of the total number, 66,950 candidates sat for the examination conducted on Saturday, June 6, 2026, across Nigeria, the Benin Republic, and Togo, while 3,407 candidates were absent.
Prof. Ahmad disclosed that while the top 10 candidates each scored 202 marks, 82 candidates recorded the lowest score of one mark.
She explained that the National Common Entrance Examination serves as the gateway for admission into Junior Secondary School One (JSS1) in the Federal Government Colleges and remains one of Nigeria’s most competitive entrance examinations.
The minister noted that the Unity Colleges continue to promote national integration and unity by bringing together students from different parts of the country, making them a preferred choice for many parents.
In addition, Prof. Ahmad announced the release of the results of the National Gifted Examination for admission into the Federal Government Academy, Suleja.
She revealed that 2,071 candidates registered for the academy’s entrance examination, with 1,876 candidates participating, while 195 candidates were absent.
According to the minister, the highest score recorded in the examination was 187 marks, representing 89.05 per cent of the total obtainable score, while the lowest score was four marks.
Prof. Ahmad stated that the Federal Government would retain the existing admission guidelines for Unity Colleges, with admissions based on:
- 60% Merit
- 30% Equality of States
- 10% Exigency
She directed the Senior Secondary Education Department to conclude the admission process promptly while ensuring strict compliance with the approved guidelines.
The minister also reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to strengthening Unity Colleges through sustained investment in infrastructure, improved feeding programmes, and enhanced teacher quality.
“Our Federal Government Colleges have become the first choice for many parents across Nigeria. We will continue to improve infrastructure, feeding and the quality of teachers to ensure better learning outcomes for our children,” she said.
Earlier, the Registrar of the National Examinations Council (NECO), Prof. Ibrahim Dantani Wushishi, formally presented the 2026 National Common Entrance Examination and National Gifted Examination results to the minister for official release.
