Chukwu Obinna 
House of Representative
ABUJA, Nigeria – The House of Representatives has ordered the West African Examinations Council (WAEC) to suspend its plan to introduce Computer-Based Testing (CBT) for the 2026 West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE).
Lawmakers warn the policy could cause mass failure and distress among students.
The decision followed a motion of urgent public importance moved on Thursday by Kelechi Nworgu, who argued that many secondary schools, particularly in rural areas, lack the infrastructure for a digital exam system.
“Most of the over 25,500 schools nationwide do not have computers, electricity, or qualified ICT teachers,” Nworgu said. “Forcing students who have never used computers to take nine subjects through CBT will create chaos.”
Lawmakers said that unlike JAMB, WAEC operates in a more resource-constrained environment and needs time to build digital capacity. They urged that the rollout be postponed to at least 2029 or 2030 to allow for adequate preparation.
Following deliberations, the House directed WAEC and the Federal Ministry of Education to suspend the 2026 CBT plan immediately. It also recommended that future budgets include funding for ICT teachers, computer laboratories, and backup power systems in schools.
Chairman of the House Committee on Basic Education, Adamu Yusuf, said, “The digital transition must be inclusive. No child should be left behind because of inadequate facilities.”
The resolution mandates four committees—Education, ICT, Labour, and Examination Bodies—to engage stakeholders and report back within four weeks.
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Mirian Gom 
