By Isaac Joseph Inyang
In a major reform aimed at transforming Nigeria’s examination landscape, the Federal Government has unveiled plans to commence the use of Computer-Based Testing (CBT) for the West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE) conducted by the West African Examinations Council (WAEC).
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Minister of Education, Prof. Tahir Mamman, made the disclosure during a policy briefing in Abuja, describing the shift as a strategic move to modernize Nigeria’s education system and align with global assessment standards already adopted by JAMB and NECO.
“This is not just a policy shift, but a progressive leap into the future of learning and assessment,” Prof. Mamman stated. “We are working in close partnership with WAEC to ensure this transition is smooth, secure, and inclusive.”
The phased transition will begin with multiple-choice components of the WASSCE while the theory-based sections will be gradually integrated as infrastructure improves. The Ministry also hinted at a pilot phase to test implementation capacity in selected CBT centres nationwide.
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Although no definitive rollout date has been announced, WAEC has begun consultations and technical evaluations in anticipation of the deployment. Head of National Office at WAEC, Dr. Amos Dangut, confirmed the Council’s readiness to collaborate with stakeholders and invest in the necessary infrastructure.
However, the announcement has sparked debate among educators and parents, with concerns about digital inequality, particularly in rural areas with limited internet access and power supply.
“This reform must be carefully implemented to avoid marginalizing students in underserved regions,” said Dr. Veronica Ajayi, an education technologist.
Despite the challenges, education analysts believe the introduction of CBT could reduce examination malpractice, enhance processing speed, and reinforce transparency in Nigeria’s assessment culture.
WAEC currently serves over 1.5 million candidates annually in Nigeria. If successful, the reform could redefine the future of standardized testing across West Africa.
