WAEC Bows to Pressure, Shifts Full Computer-Based WASSCE to 2027 After Reps’ Intervention
WAEC Confirms Adjustment to CB-WASSCE Timeline After Lawmakers’ Directive
The West African Examinations Council (WAEC) has announced a major shift in its planned rollout of the Computer-Based West African Senior School Certificate Examination (CB-WASSCE), following a directive from the House of Representatives. Instead of commencing full computer-based examinations in 2026 as initially scheduled, WAEC will now conduct a pilot test next year, with full implementation taking effect from 2027.
Akahi News gathered that the decision was communicated during the Nigeria National Committee (NNC) meeting held on Thursday, where the council reaffirmed its readiness to modernise assessments while ensuring no candidate is left behind.
Pilot Test Scheduled for 2026 Amid Stakeholder Concerns
According to the NNC Chairman, Hajiya Binta Abdulkadir, the council’s shift in dates is part of efforts to stabilise the transition process. She explained that although the Federal Ministry of Education had earlier directed WAEC to fully migrate to CB-WASSCE by 2026, widespread concerns from stakeholders prompted the council to re-evaluate its rollout plan.
Speaking at the meeting, Abdulkadir assured that, “No candidate sitting this examination will be disenfranchised.” She added that WAEC is working closely with the ministry to explore multiple options for a smooth transition.
Akahi News learnt that the council recently trained senior secondary students in the use of tablets and digital styluses to answer essay questions — a critical component missing in many past computer-based examination models in the country.
This proactive step, analysts believe, shows WAEC’s intention to avoid the infrastructural setbacks seen during other national CBT migrations.
Lawmakers Wanted CB-WASSCE Delayed Until 2030
It will be recalled that the House of Representatives had, last week, directed WAEC to halt its CB-WASSCE plans and push the start date to 2030, citing infrastructural gaps, security concerns, and unequal access to digital devices across rural and urban schools.
However, WAEC’s latest announcement indicates that while the council is willing to adjust the timeline, its full shift will now happen in 2027, not the 2030 date proposed by legislators.
According to observers, the compromise reflects both WAEC’s commitment to digital innovation and its recognition of the realities facing Nigerian schools.
WAEC Rewards Outstanding Students from 2024 WASSCE
Another highlight of the NNC meeting was the recognition of exceptional students from the May/June 2024 WASSCE.
Akahi News gathered that:
- Ajisafe Olamilekan, 18, of Eemaan Foundation College, Osogbo, emerged the overall best, scoring eight A1s.
- Onovo Joan, 18, of Louisville Girls High School, Ogun State, also secured eight A1s, earning her the second position.
- Mbah Mac-Donald, 18, of Grundtvig International Secondary School, Anambra State, clinched the third spot with eight A1s as well.
The students were honoured with certificates, plaques, and cash awards — an initiative observers say encourages academic excellence across the country.
Abia State Praises WAEC’s Push for Integrity and Modernisation
In a goodwill message, the Governor of Abia State, Dr Alex Otti, represented by Elder Goodluck Ubochi, commended WAEC for strengthening examination credibility and implementing forward-looking reforms.
He highlighted the state’s efforts in improving school infrastructure, enhancing teacher capacity, and securing learning environments. According to him, WAEC’s anti-malpractice measures align with Abia’s push for honesty, discipline, and academic fairness.
“WAEC continues to occupy a pivotal place in the educational landscape of West Africa,” he said, adding that the council’s work “shapes the standards that mould millions of young people.”
WAEC Reaffirms Commitment to Excellence
The Head of National Office (HNO), Dr Amos Dangut, reiterated that WAEC’s policies are formulated and executed in the public interest. He emphasised that the NNC remains the top policy-making organ overseeing the council’s operations across Nigeria.
According to Dangut, WAEC — now in its 73rd year — will continue to uphold its mandate as “Africa’s foremost examining body” while adding value to educational development across the region.
Akahi News gathered that the council’s decision to stagger the migration to computer-based testing reflects its desire to strike a balance between innovation and fairness.
A Balanced Compromise on Digital Transition
WAEC’s decision to shift the full CB-WASSCE rollout to 2027 marks a significant compromise that prioritises both technological advancement and equity for students across Nigeria. With pilot testing scheduled for 2026, stakeholders expect the council to use the extra time to expand digital readiness in schools, train teachers, and deepen infrastructural capacity.
As the nation looks toward a more technology-driven educational future, Akahi News will continue to track WAEC’s reforms and provide updates on policies shaping the learning environment for millions of Nigerian children.
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By Joseph Iyaji | Akahi News
Joseph Iyaji is a journalist, educator, and founder of Akahi G. International, Akahi Tutors, and Akahi News. Read more about him here.
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