Students Not Ready: National Assembly suspends WAEC’s 2026 CBT move

The House of Representatives has asked the Federal Government to stop the West African Examinations Council (WAEC) from using Computer-Based Testing (CBT) for the 2026 West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE).

Lawmakers warned that the move could lead to mass failure, stress, and even deaths among students.

The decision followed a motion raised by Hon. Kelechi Nworgu, who said introducing CBT now could create a major crisis in education.

Nworgu explained that, unlike JAMB, most secondary schools in Nigeria are not yet ready for CBT. He noted that many schools especially in rural areas do not have computers, steady power supply, internet access, or trained computer teachers.

He said, “Most of the 25,500 schools across the country lack functional computers. Many students have never used a computer, yet they are expected to take up to nine subjects, including theory and practicals, through CBT.”

The lawmaker warned that rushing the plan could cause widespread failure, frustration, and even social problems like drug abuse among young people. He advised that the plan be postponed for at least three years, suggesting that WAEC should target 2029 or 2030 for full implementation after improving infrastructure and training.

Following his motion, the House directed WAEC and the Ministry of Education to suspend the CBT rollout. It also urged the government to use part of the 2026 budget to hire computer teachers, build computer labs with internet facilities, and provide standby generators in schools.

Additionally, the House instructed its committees on Education, ICT, Labour, and Examination Bodies to meet with key stakeholders and submit a report within four weeks to guide further actions.