Nigeria’s House of Representatives has directed WAEC to suspend its planned 2026 transition to CBT, citing inadequate preparation among schools, especially in rural areas.
The House of Representatives has directed the West African Examination Council (WAEC) to suspend its planned transition to computer-based testing (CBT) for the 2026 Senior Secondary School Certificate Examination, according to a report from Cable.
The resolution followed the adoption of a motion of urgent public importance sponsored by Kelechi Wogu during Thursday’s plenary session, presided over by Speaker Abbas Tajudeen.
The motion, 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,” raised concerns about the preparedness of schools nationwide, especially in rural communities lacking adequate ICT infrastructure and trained personnel.
Leading the debate, Wogu stressed that WAEC examinations determine students’ eligibility for higher education, noting that most tertiary institutions require a minimum of five credits, including English and Mathematics. He recalled how the 2025 result portal suffered technical glitches, causing distress for candidates and casting doubt on WAEC’s readiness for a full CBT migration.
Wogu warned that pushing ahead without sufficient preparation could lead to mass failure, frustration, depression, and even encourage social vices. He recommended a minimum three-year preparation window, suggesting implementation between the 2029 and 2030 academic sessions.
The House unanimously approved the motion and mandated relevant committees to engage stakeholders in the education and technology sectors. Their reports are expected within four weeks.