The House of Representatives has ordered the immediate suspension of the West African Examinations Council’s (WAEC) plan to introduce Computer-Based Testing (CBT) for the 2026 West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE). Lawmakers warned that implementing the exams prematurely could trigger mass academic failures, psychological stress, and even endanger students’ lives. The directive followed a motion of urgent public importance by Hon. Kelechi Nworgu during Thursday’s plenary, who described the proposed rollout as a looming educational disaster. While noting the success of CBT in the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB), Nworgu highlighted that most Nigerian secondary schools are ill-prepared for a similar transition. Many schools, particularly in rural areas, lack computers, trained ICT teachers, stable electricity, and internet access. “Most of the over 25,500 schools nationwide, especially in rural communities, have no functional computer systems or trained teachers. Many students have never used a computer, yet they are expected to take up to nine subjects via CBT,” he said. Nworgu warned that rushing the initiative could result in widespread failure, frustration, and potential mental health challenges or substance abuse among students. He recommended that WAEC delay CBT implementation for at least three years, targeting 2029 or 2030 once adequate infrastructure and training are in place. The House directed WAEC and the Federal Ministry of Education to immediately halt the planned 2026 CBT exams. It also urged the government to allocate funds in the 2026 budget for hiring computer teachers, building ICT laboratories, and installing standby generators in schools nationwide. Additionally, the House tasked its Committees on Basic Examination Bodies, Digital and Information Technology, Basic Education and Services, and Labour, Employment and Productivity to engage stakeholders and submit a detailed report within four weeks to guide future legislative action.
