The House of Representatives has ordered the Federal Ministry of Education and the West African Examinations Council (WAEC) to put an immediate stop to the planned introduction of Computer-Based Testing (CBT) for the 2026 May/June WASSCE.

The decision follows widespread concerns about Nigeria’s inadequate digital infrastructure, especially in rural schools, where lawmakers say the planned transition could trigger mass failure, anxiety, and even psychological harm among students.

 Why WAEC’s 2026 CBT Plan Was Suspended

WAEC, with earlier approval from the Federal Government, had announced its intention to conduct the 2026 WASSCE using computers — expanding from its partial CBT model previously used for private candidates beginning in 2024.

But lawmakers say the country is not ready.

During plenary, the House adopted a motion sponsored by Rep. 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).”

Wogu warned that forcing students into a poorly prepared digital exam system could trigger a national academic disaster.

He emphasized that:

• WAEC exams determine students’ eligibility for tertiary admission
  
• Most tertiary institutions mandate five credits, including English and Mathematics
  
• Students in rural areas (over 70% of candidates) lack access to ICT facilities
  
• Even the 2025 WAEC results portal experienced temporary shutdowns exposing ongoing system weaknesses
  

 Why a 2026 CBT Rollout is “Unrealistic” Lawmakers

Wogu highlighted the critical requirements needed before transitioning WAEC to a fully digital examination model:

• Adequate computer laboratories
  
• Internet connectivity
  
• Consistent electricity supply
  
• Skilled ICT teachers
  
• Secure and standardized exam environments
  

He also noted a key difference between WAEC and JAMB:

• JAMB: Only four subjects, no practicals
  
• WAEC: At least nine subjects, including theory and practical components
  

According to him, this makes a sudden switch to CBT impractical and potentially catastrophic for students.

 Transition to Computer-Based WAEC Exams May Not Happen Until 2030

Following deliberations, the House issued strong recommendations:

What Schools Must Achieve Before CBT Becomes National Policy

Between 2026 and 2029, federal and state governments are expected to budget for:

1. Recruitment of qualified computer and ICT teachers
   
2. Construction and equipping of computer labs with stable internet
   
3. Installation of standby power supply or generators
   
4. Assessment of all private schools for digital readiness
   

Nigeria currently has 25,500 schools registered to present candidates for the 2026 WASSCE. Lawmakers warn that the majority still lack basic ICT tools, meaning a national rollout cannot be realistically achieved before 2029–2030.

 House Committees to Interface With Stakeholders

The House mandated its Committees on:

• Basic Examination Bodies
  
• Digital and Information Technology
  
• Basic Education and Services
  
• Labour, Employment and Productivity
  

to conduct nationwide stakeholder engagements and submit a detailed report within four weeks.

This investigation will determine the final timeline for Nigeria’s digital transition in secondary school examinations.

 WAEC Maintains Its Digital Modernization Agenda

WAEC has continued to promote its “CB-WASSCE: New Way, Same Destination” transition campaign, citing its successful partial CBT implementation for private candidates in 2024.

However, with the latest directive from the National Assembly, widespread implementation of computer-based WASSCE exams in Nigeria now appears postponed potentially until 2030.