The House of Representatives has called on the Federal Government to suspend the planned introduction of Computer-Based Testing (CBT) for the 2026 West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE) by the West African Examinations Council (WAEC).
Lawmakers warned that rushing into the new examination method could result in mass failure, psychological stress, and even health crises among students who are not adequately prepared for a digital testing system.
The resolution followed a motion of urgent public importance moved by Hon. Kelechi Nworgu on Thursday. He cautioned that adopting CBT without sufficient groundwork could lead to a serious educational setback across the country.
Nworgu noted that unlike the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB), which successfully adopted CBT, most secondary schools in Nigeria lack the infrastructure to support such examinations. He pointed out that many schools—especially those in rural areas—do not have access to functional computers, electricity, or internet connectivity.
“Over 25,500 schools across Nigeria lack the essential digital facilities. Many students have never used a computer before, yet they are expected to take up to nine subjects, including theory and practicals, via CBT,” Nworgu said.
He described WAEC’s proposal as hasty and warned that it could lead to mass failure, depression, and possible social unrest among young Nigerians.
The lawmaker, therefore, urged WAEC and the Ministry of Education to postpone the initiative for at least three years and begin gradual implementation around 2029 or 2030 after proper preparations have been made.
Following deliberations, the House directed WAEC and the Ministry of Education to immediately suspend the planned CBT system and instead focus on improving ICT infrastructure nationwide. Lawmakers also called for the recruitment of computer teachers, the construction of ICT-equipped examination halls with internet access, and the provision of reliable power supply in schools starting from the 2026 budget year.
In addition, the House mandated its Committees on Basic Examination Bodies, Digital and Information Technology, Basic Education and Services, and Labour, Employment and Productivity to engage key stakeholders and report back within four weeks.
