Nigerian lawmakers have urged WAEC to tread carefully as it plans to introduce computer-based testing for WASSCE in 2026.
They stressed the risks of technical failures and rural student exclusion.
Lawmakers in the National Assembly have urged the West African Examinations Council (WAEC) to proceed with caution as it prepares to introduce Computer-Based Testing (CBT) for the West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE) starting in 2026. They warned that any failure in the system could put the future of millions of Nigerian students at risk.
WAEC has assured that the transition will be inclusive, promising that candidates across the country, regardless of location or access to technology, would not be excluded.
Dr. Amos Dangut, Head of the WAEC National Office, gave the assurance on Tuesday in Abuja during a sensitization program organized for the National Assembly Committees on Education. He explained that the rollout would begin gradually, with objective questions first, before extending to theory and practical papers to allow students and schools to adjust to the change.
Although many legislators welcomed the idea, they raised concerns about the digital divide, poor infrastructure, and limited computer literacy among students in rural areas.
Senator Ekong Sampson, Vice Chairman of the Senate Committee on Basic and Secondary Education, cautioned that implementing the policy too quickly could “end up creating more complications rather than solving problems.”
Senator Victor Umeh also highlighted the need for fairness, stressing that students should not be put at a disadvantage because of their background. He warned that “if there’s a technical breakdown during such a sensitive exam, the impact would be enormous. Nigeria must approach this carefully and ensure that every system put in place works properly.”
Umeh further recommended a dual system during the initial phase, saying the traditional paper-and-pen method should remain available alongside the CBT option. “We are talking about a much larger group of candidates than those who sit for JAMB. Not all of them have strong computer skills. Giving them a choice would protect students from being unfairly penalized,” he advised.
In the House of Representatives, Bayelsa lawmaker Oboku Oforji stressed the need for “solid groundwork” ahead of 2026. He called for at least one well-equipped CBT center in each of the country’s 774 local government areas to ensure rural students enjoy the same opportunities as those in urban centers. He also revealed that the Minister of Education, Dr. Tunji Alausa, has been summoned to brief the House Committee on Basic Education about the implementation strategy and infrastructure plans.
Other lawmakers suggested piloting the project in cities with stable electricity, internet, and computer facilities before expanding it nationwide.
Responding to the concerns, Dr. Dangut reaffirmed WAEC’s commitment to transparency and equity. He explained that centers were already being mapped across all local governments to ease the burden on parents and reduce travel costs. According to him, CBT will help curb exam malpractice, accelerate result processing, and enhance the credibility of WASSCE.
Education Minister, Dr. Tunji Alausa, also reassured parents and schools that “every child will be carried along in this transition.”
Leaders of education associations, including Muhammad Musa of the All Nigeria Confederation of Principals of Public Schools and Dr. Samira Jibir of the National Association of Proprietors of Private Schools, endorsed the plan but insisted that the government must provide proper infrastructure and adequate preparation before it takes full effect.
In summary, lawmakers and stakeholders agreed that while the adoption of digital tools in education is necessary and unavoidable, WAEC must ensure that the process is carefully phased to avoid technical hitches, prevent rural students from being sidelined, and preserve public confidence in the examination system.
