The Federal Government has officially released the results of the 2026 National Common Entrance Examination (NCEE), with 10 candidates emerging as the highest scorers after each recorded 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, a total of 70,357 candidates registered for the examination into the country’s 80 Federal Government Colleges, popularly known as Unity Colleges. Of that number, 66,950 candidates sat for the examination conducted on 6 June 2026 across Nigeria, the Republic of Benin and Togo, while 3,407 candidates were absent.
Prof. Ahmad disclosed that the top 10 candidates each scored 202 marks, while 82 candidates recorded the lowest score of one mark.
She described the National Common Entrance Examination as the annual qualifying examination for Nigerian pupils seeking admission into Junior Secondary School One (JSS1) in Federal Government Colleges, noting that it remains one of the country’s most competitive entrance examinations.
The minister said Unity Colleges continue to promote national integration and unity, making them one of the most sought-after secondary
school options for parents across Nigeria.She also announced the release of the results of the National Gifted Examination for admission into the Federal Government Academy, Suleja.
According to her, 2,071 candidates registered for the examination, while 1,876 sat for the test and 195 were absent. The highest score recorded was 187 marks, representing 89.05 per cent of the total obtainable score, while the lowest score was four marks.
Prof. Ahmad reaffirmed that the admission guidelines into Federal Government Colleges remain unchanged. She explained that admissions would continue to be based on 60 per cent merit, 30 per cent equality of states and 10 per cent exigency.
She directed the Senior Secondary Education Department to conclude the admission process promptly while ensuring strict compliance with the approved guidelines.
The minister further reiterated the Federal Government’s commitment to strengthening Unity Colleges through sustained investment in infrastructure, improved feeding programmes and enhanced teacher quality.
She stated that the colleges have become the preferred choice for many parents nationwide, adding that government would continue to improve learning facilities and educational standards to deliver better outcomes for Nigerian children.
Earlier, NECO Registrar, Prof. Ibrahim Dantani Wushishi, formally presented both the 2026 National Common Entrance Examination results and the National Gifted Examination results to the minister for public release.
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