Reps Urge FG To Suspend WAEC’s Planned CBT For 2026 WASSCE
The House of Representatives has called on the Federal Government to immediately suspend the move by the West African Examinations Council (WAEC) to introduce Computer-Based Testing (CBT) for the 2026 WASSCE.
This follows rising concerns that the plan, if implemented next year, could lead to mass failure and severe psychological stress for students, especially those in rural areas.
The lawmakers reached the resolution after Hon. Kelechi Nworgu presented a motion of urgent public importance during Thursday’s plenary.
Why Reps Want WAEC’s CBT Plan Suspended
Hon. Nworgu warned that introducing CBT at this stage is “premature, hasty, and dangerous”, considering the digital reality of many Nigerian schools.
He stressed that the nation’s secondary schools are not equipped technically or structurally to support digital examinations of this magnitude.
Key Concerns Raised by Lawmakers
- Over 25,500 schools across Nigeria reportedly lack functional computers.
- Many communities still experience poor or zero electricity supply.
- Internet access in rural schools is either non-existent or unstable.
- Most students have never operated a computer, making a sudden transition unfair.
- WAEC exams include theory, practicals, and multiple-choice unlike JAMB’s strictly objective CBT.
Lawmakers fear that pushing students into unfamiliar digital environments may result in:
- mass failure
- depression and anxiety
- social unrest and frustration among youths
- increased dropout rates
Why WAEC’s CBT Proposal Is Different From JAMB’s
Nworgu explained that while JAMB successfully adopted CBT, WAEC’s own exam structure is more complex.
WAEC tests:
- 9 subjects per student
- essay writing
- long theoretical answers
- practical components
This means that adopting CBT requires massive infrastructure, stable electricity, fully equipped computer halls, and trained ICT staff all of which many schools currently lack.
Reps Recommend a Three-Year Delay
To avoid a national educational disaster, the House recommended that WAEC and the Ministry of Education postpone the digital transition for at least three years.
This would shift proper implementation to around 2029 or 2030, allowing government, schools, and teachers enough time to:
- build ICT labs in schools
- train computer teachers
- ensure nationwide access to reliable power
- provide computers and internet facilities
- test-run the system gradually
Directive to FG, Ministry of Education & WAEC
After deliberation, the House resolved that:
- WAEC must immediately suspend the 2026 CBT plan
- FG should fund ICT expansion from the 2026 education budget
Schools should be equipped with:
- standard computer halls
- internet access
- standby power supply
- trained ICT instructors
Four key committees must engage stakeholders:
- Committee on Basic Examination Bodies
- Committee on Digital & Information Technology
- Committee on Basic Education & Services
- Committee on Labour, Employment & Productivity
- These committees are expected to report back within four weeks.
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Conclusion
The House of Representatives has made it clear that the welfare of students must come first. Introducing a nationwide CBT exam without preparation could create more harm than good, especially for students from underserved communities.
A controlled, gradual, and well-funded transition not a rushed one, is what Nigeria needs to modernize its education system.
If WAEC’s 2026 CBT plan is suspended as recommended, it gives the nation enough time to build the infrastructure needed for a fair and inclusive digital exam system.
Kolade Kayode, known as Mr. KK, I am a Nigerian education blogger and founder of MasterWAEC.com. Passionate about student success, I simplifies WAEC exam preparation with accurate tips and resources to help students excel.
