The House of Representatives has called on the Federal Government to immediately suspend the plan by the West African Examinations Council (WAEC) to introduce Computer-Based Testing (CBT) for the 2026 West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE), warning that the move could lead to mass failure, psychological distress, and even student fatalities.
The resolution followed a motion of urgent public importance moved by Hon. Kelechi Nworgu during plenary on Thursday. He described the initiative as premature and potentially disastrous, given the poor state of infrastructure in most Nigerian secondary schools.
Nworgu acknowledged that CBT has worked effectively for the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB)but argued that secondary schools across the country — especially in rural areas — are not adequately equipped to handle such a transition.
“Most of the over 25,500 schools across Nigeria do not have functional computers, stable electricity, or qualified computer teachers. Many students have never used a computer before, yet they are being compelled to take up to nine subjects, including theory and practical exams, through CBT,” he said.
He cautioned that rushing the implementation could result in mass academic failure, frustration, drug abuse, and other social vices among students during WAEC exams.
Nworgu proposed that the CBT migration be postponed for at least three years, recommending a gradual implementation around the 2029–2030 academic session, after the government provides adequate infrastructure and training.
Following deliberation, the House directed WAEC and the Federal Ministry of Education to suspend the planned CBT initiative and instead focus on preparing schools for a digital transition.
Lawmakers also urged the Federal Government to allocate funds in the 2026 budget for:
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Recruiting qualified computer science teachers,
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Building computer laboratories with internet access, and
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Providing standby power supply in schools nationwide.
The House further mandated its Committees on Basic Examination Bodies, Digital and Information Technology, Basic Education and Services, and Labour, Employment and Productivity to engage relevant stakeholders and submit a comprehensive report within four weeks to guide future legislative action on the matter.
