Reps Order Suspension of CBT Exams

T The House of Representatives has directed the Federal Ministry of Education and the West African Examinations Council (WAEC) to immediately suspend the planned introduction of Computer-Based Testing (CBT) for the 2026 examination cycle. Lawmakers resolved that the transition should not proceed until at least 2030.

According to the resolution, the Ministry of Education, working with state governments, is to make provisions in the 2026–2029 budgets for the recruitment of qualified computer teachers, establishment of computer laboratories with internet access, installation of standby power supply, and assessment of private schools’ readiness before any nationwide deployment of CBT.

The directive followed the adoption of a motion of urgent public importance moved by Hon. Kelechi Nwogu titled: “Need for Intervention to Avert the Pending Massive Failure of Candidates Intending to Write the 2026 WAEC Examination Using Computer-Based Testing (CBT), Capable of Causing Depression and Deaths of Students.” The motion was passed during Thursday’s plenary.

Leading the debate, Nwogu stressed WAEC’s pivotal role in determining students’ eligibility for tertiary education, noting that most higher institutions require a minimum of five credits—including English and Mathematics—for admission. He referenced the technical breakdown of WAEC’s 2025 result portal, which left many students distressed and anxious, as evidence that the system is not yet ready for a full digital transition.

Nwogu criticised the Ministry’s insistence on implementing CBT despite strong objections from the Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT) and many school administrators, especially those in rural areas where more than 70% of candidates are based. He warned that the transition could worsen educational inequality.

“The House is aware that computer-based exams demand fully equipped halls with functional computers, reliable internet access, and steady electricity—either from the national grid or standby generators,” he said.

He further noted that over 25,500 schools across the country are expected to present candidates for the 2026 WAEC examinations, scheduled to run from March to July. However, most schools, particularly in underserved rural communities, lack the infrastructure and qualified manpower required to support such a major shift.