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| House of Reps Orders Immediate Suspension of WAEC CBT 2026 Rollout |
Get the latest update on WAEC CBT 2026 as the House of Reps orders its suspension. Learn why lawmakers halted the plan and what it means for schools and students.
The controversy surrounding the planned WAEC CBT 2026 examination format has taken a new turn as the House of Representatives has ordered an immediate suspension of the rollout. The lawmakers believe the shift to Computer-Based Testing could trigger widespread failure and place millions of students at risk due to the current state of digital infrastructure in Nigerian schools.
The decision follows concerns raised about technology gaps, lack of preparedness, and the potential psychological impact on students, especially those in underserved communities.
Why the House Ordered the Suspension of WAEC CBT 2026
Concerns Over Massive Failure and Student Well-being
In a motion presented by Hon. Kelechi Nworgu, lawmakers warned that implementing CBT for WASSCE 2026 could cause:
- Large-scale academic failure
- Increased student anxiety and mental strain
- Dangerous levels of frustration that could lead to social problems
Nworgu emphasized that conditions across most schools make the rollout unrealistic at this stage.
Current State of ICT Infrastructure in Secondary Schools
A System Not Yet Ready for Full CBT Exams
According to the motion, over 25,500 secondary schools across Nigeria lack essential digital learning tools. Many rural schools do not have:
- Functional computer laboratories
- Stable electricity
- Reliable internet access
- Qualified computer teachers
Even more concerning, millions of students have never operated a computer before, yet would be expected to write up to nine subjects — including theory and practical components — through CBT.
For reference, see WAEC’s official website:
https://www.waecdirect.org
Comparison With JAMB’s CBT System
Although the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) successfully runs CBT exams, lawmakers argued that WAEC assessments are structurally different. WASSCE includes theory-heavy subjects, practicals, and handwritten sections, making a full shift to CBT more complex.
For more on JAMB’s CBT model:
https://www.jamb.gov.ng
Recommended Timeline and Next Steps
Proposed Delay to 2029–2030
Nworgu recommended that WAEC and the Ministry of Education postpone the transition to CBT for at least three additional years, projecting a more feasible implementation between 2029 and 2030. This window would allow adequate time for:
- Training computer teachers
- Building ICT labs
- Installing internet access points
- Providing standby power supply
- Preparing students through digital literacy programs
The Apple App Store and Google Play Store already host thousands of educational apps that can support these preparations:
https://play.google.com
https://www.apple.com/app-store/
House Directives To WAEC and the Ministry of Education
The House of Representatives resolved that:
- WAEC must suspend the planned CBT rollout immediately.
- The Federal Ministry of Education must halt the 2026 CBT implementation plan.
- 2026 budget allocations should support nationwide ICT upgrades, including:
- Hiring computer teachers
- Building computer laboratories
- Installing generators and internet-enabled facilities
- Committees on Education, Examination Bodies, ICT, and Labour must engage with stakeholders and submit a detailed report within four weeks.
What This Means for Students and Schools
The suspension of WAEC CBT 2026 offers breathing room for schools that lack the infrastructure needed for a smooth transition. While digital exams are the future, lawmakers insist that Nigeria must prepare adequately to avoid jeopardizing student performance and well-being.
