The House of Representatives has ordered the West African Examinations Council (WAEC) and the Federal Ministry of Education to suspend their plan to introduce Computer-Based Testing (CBT) for the 2026 West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE).
Lawmakers warned that the move could lead to widespread academic failure, mental distress, and even loss of lives among students who are not adequately prepared for the digital system.
The decision followed a motion of urgent public importance presented by Hon. Kelechi Nworgu on Thursday. He said that while CBT has worked well for the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB), most secondary schools in Nigeria are not ready for such a transition.
According to Nworgu, many schools lack basic facilities like functional computers, internet connectivity, and electricity. He added that millions of students, especially in rural areas, have never operated a computer, yet would be expected to take up to nine subjects, including theory and practical exams, using CBT.
He said, “Most of the over 25,500 schools across the country, especially in rural areas, do not have functional computers or qualified computer teachers.”
Nworgu cautioned that rushing the initiative could result in mass failure, frustration, drug abuse, and other social problems among young people. He advised that the CBT system should be postponed for at least three years — possibly until the 2029 or 2030 academic session — to allow for proper infrastructure and teacher training.
Following the debate, the House directed WAEC and the Ministry of Education to suspend the plan immediately. It also urged the Federal Government to allocate part of the 2026 budget to build computer laboratories, provide internet access, and hire computer teachers across schools.
Additionally, the House instructed its Committees on Basic Examination Bodies, Digital and Information Technology, Basic Education and Services, and Labour to engage stakeholders and submit a report within four weeks for further legislative action.
