Nigerian lawmakers have urged the West African Examinations Council (WAEC) to be cautious with its plan to introduce Computer-Based Testing (CBT) for the West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE) starting in 2026. They warned that any major technical problem could affect the future of millions of students.
WAEC had earlier assured that the new exam system would be available to all students, regardless of their location or access to technology.
The Head of WAEC’s National Office, Dr. Amos Dangut, explained in Abuja that the rollout would be gradual beginning with multiple-choice questions before moving on to theory and practical papers.
However, senators and members of the House of Representatives raised concerns about poor infrastructure, low digital literacy, and unequal access to technology, especially in rural areas.
Senator Ekong Sampson said that rushing the rollout might “create more problems than it solves,” while Senator Victor Umeh stressed that no student should be disadvantaged because of their background.
He suggested that WAEC should allow students to choose between the new CBT format and the traditional paper-based exam until everyone is adequately prepared.
Similarly, House member Oboku Oforji called for at least one fully equipped CBT centre in each of Nigeria’s 774 local government areas.
He said this would give rural students the same opportunities as those in cities. Oforji also revealed that Education Minister Dr. Tunji Alausa will appear before lawmakers to explain the implementation plan.
Other lawmakers proposed starting the CBT exams only in urban areas where electricity, internet access, and computers are more reliable, before expanding nationwide.
In response, Dr. Dangut reassured that WAEC was committed to fairness and equity, adding that exam centres were being mapped across all local governments to reduce costs and travel stress.
He also highlighted the benefits of CBT, such as faster result processing, reduced malpractice, and improved credibility.
The News Chronicle learned that the Education Minister Dr. Alausa also promised that “no child will be left behind in this digital transition.” Leaders of school principals and private school proprietors expressed support for the plan but stressed that strong preparation and infrastructure were vital.
Lawmakers concluded that while moving towards digital exams is necessary, the government and WAEC must avoid a hasty rollout that could cause glitches, exclude rural students, and spark nationwide backlash.
