NABTEB Begins 2026 Placement Of Successful Candidates Into Technical Colleges

The National Business and Technical Examinations Board (NABTEB) has commenced the 2026 selection and placement of qualified candidates into federal and state technical colleges across the country.

The announcement was made on Monday in Abuja by the Registrar and Chief Executive Officer of NABTEB, Dr. Mohammed Aminu.

According to the Board, 15,290 candidates registered for the 2026 National Common Entrance Examination, while 13,848 eventually sat for the test nationwide.

Of those who participated, 10,426 candidates, representing 75.29 per cent, scored 50 per cent and above, while 5,708 candidates, or 41.22 per cent, obtained scores of at least 70 per cent.

Aminu described the placement exercise as a crucial stage in the admission process, saying it would ensure that successful candidates are admitted into technical colleges through a transparent and merit-based process.

“Today’s exercise marks one of the most critical stages in the admission process into our Technical Colleges. It is the bridge between assessment and admission, ensuring that qualified candidates who sat for the 2026 National Common Entrance Examination are fairly, transparently and appropriately placed in accordance with the admission guidelines approved by the Federal Ministry of Education,” he said.

The registrar noted that the selection process would be guided by the principles of merit, equity, accountability, transparency and the Federal Character Principle.

He urged members of the selection committee to carry out their responsibilities with integrity, stressing that the credibility of the entrance examination depends on a fair and objective placement process.

Aminu also highlighted several innovations introduced during the examination, including the deployment of computer-based testing, improved digital result processing and an Artificial Intelligence-powered aptitude placement system to enhance efficiency and transparency.

He described technical colleges as institutions that promote innovation, entrepreneurship and practical skills rather than schools of second choice.

According to him, strengthening Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) remains essential to producing skilled technicians, artisans and technologists capable of supporting Nigeria’s industrialization and economic diversification.

The NABTEB boss commended the Minister of Education, Dr. Tunji Alausa, for driving reforms aimed at repositioning technical education through increased investment in skills development, digital innovation and stronger collaboration with industry stakeholders.

He also called on governments, school administrators, parents, communities and development partners to encourage more young Nigerians to embrace technical and vocational education as a pathway to employment and entrepreneurship.