The House of Representatives has called on 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 school examinations.
Lawmakers said the move is premature, citing widespread concerns that most schools, particularly in rural communities lack the infrastructure and personnel required to support a full transition to CBT.
WAEC, with the backing of the Federal Government, had announced plans to conduct the 2026 May/June examinations using computers, following the partial rollout of the model for private candidates in 2024.
However, the House urged the Education Ministry and state governments to begin making provisions in the 2026–2029 budgets for the recruitment of computer teachers, construction of ICT-compliant exam halls with internet access, provision of standby power supply, and assessment of private schools’ readiness, ahead of a full implementation of CBT by 2030.
The resolution followed the adoption of a motion of urgent public importance sponsored 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.”
Leading the debate, Rep. Wogu noted that WAEC plays a crucial role in determining students’ eligibility for tertiary education, as most institutions require at least five credits including English Language and Mathematics for admission.
He recalled that the WAEC result portal for 2025 was temporarily shut down due to technical glitches, leaving many candidates distressed.
Wogu expressed concern that despite strong opposition from the Nigeria Union of Teachers and heads of schools, especially in rural areas where over 70 per cent of students reside, the Education Ministry remains insistent on rolling out CBT for the 2026 exams.
“Computer-based examinations require fully equipped halls with functional systems, internet access, and constant electricity, either from the national grid or standby generators,” he said.
He added that about 25,500 schools nationwide are expected to present candidates for the 2026 examination, which typically runs for four months, from March to July. Yet, many of these schools, particularly in remote areas, lack functional computers and qualified ICT teachers.
The lawmaker argued that, unlike JAMB exams, WAEC candidates sit for at least nine subjects covering practicals, objectives, and theory—making a rushed shift to CBT unrealistic.
He warned that premature implementation could lead to widespread failure, frustration, depression, and other harmful consequences for students.
Wogu recommended a minimum three-year preparation period before full deployment of CBT in the 2029–2030 academic session.
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.
Meanwhile, The Telegraph reported last month that WAEC had intensified preparations for full CBT deployment, with officials conducting sensitisation campaigns under the slogan “CB-WASSCE: New Way, Same Destination.” The council said the partial rollout in 2024 recorded “significant progress” and will be expanded nationwide ahead of the 2026 examination.
