The House of Representatives has directed the Minister of Education, Tunji Alausa, to suspend the planned introduction of computer-based testing (CBT) by the West African Examinations Council (WAEC) in its future examinations.
The resolution followed the adoption of a motion of urgent public importance moved by Kelechi Nworgu, who called on the House to intervene and prevent what he described as a looming educational crisis.
Nworgu, on Thursday, acknowledged that while the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) has successfully implemented computer-based testing (CBT), the current conditions in most secondary schools across Nigeria make a similar transition for WAEC examinations in 2026 premature.
He noted that the Federal Ministry of Education’s plan to conduct the 2026 WAEC exams via CBT, despite objections from the Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT) and school principals, would unfairly disadvantage millions of students—especially those in rural areas without access to computers, reliable electricity, or internet connectivity.
“Most of the over 25,500 schools across the country, especially in rural areas, do not have functional computers 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,” Nworgu stated.
He warned that rushing the policy without adequate preparation could have serious consequences, including widespread exam failure, frustration, and potential social vices such as drug abuse among young people.
The lawmaker recommended that the Ministry of Education and WAEC defer the implementation of CBT for at least three years, suggesting that the transition should take place around the 2029–2030 academic session, after proper infrastructure and capacity have been established.
Following the motion, the House directed WAEC and the Federal Ministry of Education to immediately suspend the planned CBT rollout.
It also urged the government to allocate funds in the 2026 budget for the recruitment of computer teachers, construction of computer halls with internet access, and provision of standby generators in schools nationwide.
Furthermore, the House mandated its Committees on Basic Examination Bodies, Digital and Information Technology, Basic Education and Services, and Labour, Employment and Productivity to engage relevant stakeholders in the education and technology sectors and report back within four weeks for further legislative action.
