The House of Representatives has ordered the Federal Ministry of Education and the West African Examinations Council (WAEC) to suspend the planned introduction of Computer-Based Testing (CBT) for the 2026 West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE) with immediate effect.
The lawmakers also directed the Ministry, in collaboration with state governments, to begin preparations ahead of a gradual implementation. These preparations include recruiting computer teachers, constructing ICT-equipped halls, ensuring internet connectivity, and providing standby power supply across schools. Funding for these measures, the House said, should be included in the 2026–2029 national and state budgets to guarantee readiness before full implementation in 2030.
The resolution followed a motion of urgent public importance moved by Rep. Kelechi Wogu, titled “Need for Intervention to Avert the Pending Massive Failure of Candidates Intending to Write the 2026 WAEC Examination Using Computer-Based Testing (CBT), Capable of Causing Depression and Deaths of Students.”
During Thursday’s plenary, Wogu stressed that WAEC plays a vital role in certifying students for admission into higher institutions, as most universities and colleges require at least five credits, including English and Mathematics, for entry.
He recalled that the 2025 WAEC result portal had experienced a temporary shutdown due to “technical glitches,” which left thousands of students anxious and uncertain about their results.
Expressing deep concern, Wogu noted that despite strong opposition from the Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT) and school administrators—particularly in rural areas where over 70 percent of students are based—the Ministry of Education had remained firm on introducing CBT by 2026.
“The House is cognisant that computer-based examinations require fully equipped halls with functional computers, internet access, and constant electricity—either from the national grid or standby generators,” Wogu said.
He emphasized that approximately 25,500 schools nationwide are expected to present candidates for the 2026 examination, which typically spans four months, from March to July. However, most schools, particularly in rural communities, lack adequate facilities and trained computer teachers to support the transition.
Wogu further argued that, unlike the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB), which conducts CBT exams for fewer subjects, WAEC examinations involve at least nine subjects per candidate, including practical, objective, and theory components. He warned that rushing the process without proper infrastructure and training could lead to mass failure, frustration, and mental health challenges among students.
To avert such consequences, Wogu proposed a minimum three-year preparatory window before introducing CBT in the 2029–2030 academic session.
Following deliberation, the House unanimously adopted the motion and mandated its Committees on Basic Examination Bodies, Digital and Information Technology, Basic Education and Services, and Labour, Employment and Productivity to engage relevant stakeholders and report back within four weeks for further legislative action.
What You Should Know
The Federal Ministry of Education and WAEC had planned to switch the 2026 senior school exams to Computer-Based Testing, similar to JAMB’s format.
However, the House of Representatives halted the move, citing poor ICT infrastructure and limited readiness in rural schools.
Lawmakers emphasized that implementing the CBT system without proper preparation could trigger widespread failure and emotional distress among students. A new target date of 2030 has now been proposed for nationwide implementation.
