Reps Urge FG to Suspend WAEC’s 2026 Computer-Based Exam Plan

The House of Representatives has called on the Federal Government to suspend the plan by the West African Examinations Council (WAEC) to introduce Computer-Based Testing (CBT) for the 2026 West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE), warning that the move could lead to mass failure, psychological distress, and even fatalities among students.

The resolution followed a motion of urgent public importance moved on Thursday by Hon. Kelechi Nworgu, who described the proposal as an impending crisis for Nigeria’s education system if not immediately addressed.

Nworgu noted that while the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) successfully uses CBT for its examinations, most Nigerian secondary schools are not yet equipped for such a transition. He pointed out that schools—especially those in rural communities—lack the basic infrastructure required, including computers, qualified teachers, stable electricity, and internet access.

“Most of the over 25,500 secondary schools in Nigeria, particularly in rural areas, do not have functional computers or trained instructors,” Nworgu said. “Many students have never used a computer before, yet they are expected to take up to nine subjects, including theory and practical papers, through CBT.”

He cautioned that rushing the initiative could result in widespread academic failure, frustration, drug abuse, and other social problems among young people.

The lawmaker recommended that WAEC postpone the rollout by at least three years, suggesting a more realistic target of 2029–2030, to allow time for proper infrastructure, training, and orientation.

Adopting the motion, the House directed WAEC and the Federal Ministry of Education to immediately suspend the planned CBT initiative. It also urged the Federal Government to make budgetary provisions in 2026 for:

• Recruiting qualified computer science teachers,

• Building computer laboratories with internet access, and

• Providing standby power supply in schools nationwide.

The House further mandated its Committees on Basic Examination Bodies, Digital and Information Technology, Basic Education and Services, and Labour, Employment and Productivity to engage key stakeholders and submit a comprehensive report within four weeks to guide future legislative action.