Nigerian Lawmakers Urge Suspension of 2026 WAEC Computer-Based Exam Policy
The House of Representatives has formally called on the Federal Ministry of Education and the West African Examinations Council (WAEC) to halt the planned implementation of a computer-based examination system scheduled to begin in 2026.
Parliamentary Intervention
This decisive move followed the unanimous adoption of a motion presented by Representative Kelechi Nwogu (PDP-Rivers) during Thursday’s plenary session. The motion highlighted significant concerns about the nation’s preparedness for this digital transition in high-stakes testing.
Nwogu, in his address to the chamber, emphasized WAEC’s critical role in conducting the primary qualification examination that determines secondary school students’ eligibility for higher education. “These results serve as the gateway to tertiary institutions,” he noted, “with at least five credits, including English and Mathematics, being mandatory for university admission.”
Infrastructure Deficiencies Raise Alarm
The lawmaker pointed to recent technical difficulties that plagued the 2025 WASSCE result portal as a warning sign. Candidates suffered the consequences of these glitches, raising questions about the system’s reliability for a full-scale computer-based examination.
“We are deeply concerned that despite strong objections from the National Union of Teachers and school administrators across both public and private institutions, particularly those in rural areas serving over 70% of students, the Federal Ministry of Education remains adamant about proceeding,” Nwogu stated.
The Digital Divide Reality
The motion outlined the substantial infrastructure requirements for successful computer-based testing: fully equipped examination halls with functional computers, reliable internet connectivity, and uninterrupted power supply—whether from the national grid or backup generators.
With approximately 25,500 schools nationwide expected to participate in the 2026 examination cycle spanning four months from March to July, the scale of the challenge becomes apparent. “Most urban schools, let alone those in rural communities, lack functional computers and qualified computer teachers,” Nwogu revealed. “Many students have never even used a computer before.”
Comparison with Existing Systems
The legislator drew important distinctions between the proposed WAEC computer-based tests and the established JAMB system. Unlike university entrance exams where candidates typically take fewer subjects, WAEC requires students to complete nine or more subjects comprising practical, objective, and theory components.
Nwogu argued that implementing such a comprehensive digital examination system without adequate preparation would be premature. He proposed a more realistic timeline, suggesting that the education ministry and examination body should develop a three-year projection to properly launch the policy by the 2029/2030 academic year.
Potential Consequences
The representative expressed grave concerns about the potential impact on the 2026 candidate cohort. “The results could be devastating if this computer-based policy proceeds without proper groundwork,” he warned. “We risk massive failure rates, student frustration, and potentially increased incidents of drug abuse and other social vices among our youth.”
Legislative Recommendations
The House subsequently recommended that the Federal Ministry of Education collaborate with state counterparts to include the recruitment of computer teachers and necessary digital infrastructure in the 2026 through 2029 budgets.
The Green Chamber also resolved that private schools must be properly monitored to ensure adequate provisions are in place before the policy commences in 2030.
To ensure compliance, the House mandated its Committees on Basic Examination Bodies, Digital and Information Technology, Basic Education and Services, along with other relevant committees, to oversee the matter and report back within four weeks for further legislative action.
Source: Dateline Nigeria