Reps Ask WAEC, Education Ministry to Delay Computer-Based Exams Until 2030

The House of Representatives has called on the Federal Ministry of Education and the West African Examinations Council (WAEC) to delay the planned adoption of Computer-Based Testing (CBT) for school examinations until at least 2030.

The lawmakers issued the directive during Thursday’s plenary session following concerns that many public and rural schools lack the infrastructure, trained personnel, and electricity supply needed to support the transition.

WAEC, with backing from the federal government, had earlier announced plans to conduct the May/June 2026 West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE) using computers, following a partial rollout for private candidates in 2024.

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However, the House resolution urged both the Ministry of Education and state governments to make adequate preparations between 2026 and 2029, including the recruitment of computer science teachers, construction of computer laboratories with internet access, provision of backup generators, and assessment of schools’ readiness before full implementation in 2030.

Lawmakers Warn Against “Massive Failure” Risk

The resolution followed a motion of urgent public importance moved by Hon. 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, Wogu emphasised that WAEC exams are crucial for students seeking higher education, requiring five credits including English and Mathematics.

He cited technical glitches that briefly shut down the 2025 WAEC results portal as evidence of Nigeria’s unpreparedness for a fully digital examination system.

“Computer-based examinations require fully equipped halls with functional computers, internet access, and constant electricity—either from the national grid or standby generators,” Wogu said.

He added that over 25,500 schools are expected to present candidates for the 2026 exams, warning that a rushed rollout could lead to mass failure, depression, and social vices among students.

Committees to Engage WAEC, Stakeholders

Following unanimous adoption of the motion, the House mandated its Committees on Basic Examination Bodies, Digital and Information Technology, Basic Education, and Labour to liaise with relevant stakeholders and report back within four weeks.

This comes as WAEC continues to promote its “CB-WASSCE: New Way, Same Destination” campaign, insisting that its partial rollout in 2024 showed “significant progress” and readiness for expansion by 2026.

However, with growing concerns from teachers’ unions, school principals, and lawmakers, the push for a three-year extension until 2030 may redefine Nigeria’s digital education roadmap.