Reps Suspend 2026 WAEC CBT Exams
The House of Representatives has called on the Federal Ministry of Education and the West African Examination Council (WAEC) to immediately suspend the implementation of the Computer-Based Test (CBT) policy for the 2026 Senior Secondary School Certificate Examination.
The House also urged the Ministry to work with states to budget for the recruitment of computer teachers, construction of computer halls with internet facilities, and provision of standby generators for all secondary schools from 2026 to 2029.
It recommended that private schools also have adequate facilities before the policy’s full implementation in 2030.
The decision followed the adoption of a motion on the “Need for intervention to avert the pending massive failure of candidates intending to write the 2026 WAEC using CBT,” sponsored by Kelechi Wogu (PDP, Rivers).
Leading the debate, Wogu highlighted that WAEC is responsible for conducting examinations required for higher education entry, with candidates needing at least five credits, including English and Mathematics.
He noted that the 2025 WAEC result portal had shut down due to “technical glitches,” negatively affecting candidates.
Wogu expressed concern over the Federal Ministry of Education’s plan to conduct the 2026 exam using CBT, despite protests from the National Union of Teachers and school heads, particularly in rural areas hosting over 70 per cent of students.
He stressed that computer-based exams require fully equipped halls, functional computers, internet access, and reliable electricity.
He noted that about 25,500 schools will participate in the 2026 exams, which are expected to run from March to July, adding that most schools—urban and rural—lack functional computers and trained staff.
Unlike JAMB, students are expected to take at least nine subjects, including practicals.
Wogu said, “It is wrong to start this policy now without adequate preparation. The Federal Ministry of Education and WAEC should have a three-year projection, commencing the policy in the 2029–2030 academic year. The outcome of WAEC results using CBT will be devastating, leading to massive failure, frustration, drug abuse, and other social vices.”
The House unanimously adopted the motion and directed the committees on basic examination bodies, digital and information technology, basic education, and labour, employment, and productivity to consult relevant stakeholders and report back within four weeks for further legislative action.
Titilope Adako is a talented and intrepid journalist, dedicated to shedding light on the untold stories of Osun State and Nigeria. Through incisive reporting, she tackles a broad spectrum of topics, from politics and social justice to culture and entertainment, with a commitment to accuracy, empathy, and inspiring positive change.
