The National Examinations Council has made a clear announcement for all secondary schools across Nigeria.

There will be no extension for the registration of candidates sitting for the 2026 Senior Secondary Certificate Examination. Schools, principals, and proprietors have been told to finish the process on time or risk leaving students behind.

According to NECO, the normal registration period ends on Monday, 25th May 2026. A short late registration window will close on Friday, 29th May 2026. After that date, no more candidates will be allowed to register, no matter the reason. The council stressed that these dates are final.

Professor Dantani Wushishi, the Registrar and Chief Executive of NECO, signed the statement himself. He urged every school to act quickly so that all students can be properly entered for the exams. The message is simple, do not wait until the last minute and expect extra time.

This firm stand is meant to help the entire examination process run smoothly. The SSCE is a very important test because it decides whether students can move on to universities, polytechnics, or other higher institutions.

Missing the deadline could stop a student from writing the exam and delay their future plans.

NECO wants to avoid the confusion and last-minute rush that often happens when extensions are given. By keeping to strict dates, the council hopes to make sure results come out on time and everything stays organised for the 2026 exam year.

Parents and school heads are now being advised to start the registration process early. With the final deadline just a few weeks away in May, there is still enough time to complete everything without stress. But once May 29 passes, the door will be firmly shut.