WAEC Goes Digital: FG, NASS Approve Full Transition To CBT By 2026

The Federal Government and the National Assembly have endorsed the West African Examinations Council’s (WAEC) plan to completely phase out paper-based examinations and adopt Computer-Based Testing (CBT) by 2026.

Speaking at a sensitisation meeting with lawmakers and stakeholders in Abuja, the Minister of Education, Maruf Alausa, explained that the nationwide switch to CBT would strengthen Nigeria’s assessment system and modernise the education sector.

“We have resolved to migrate public examinations to computer-based platforms as a deliberate step to protect the integrity of our education system. Though there was initial resistance, it became clear that business as usual was no longer an option,” Alausa said.

He emphasised that the move would significantly curb malpractice and boost the credibility of WAEC examinations.

“The introduction of designated CBT centres will drastically reduce examination fraud and safeguard the credibility of our exams. This will further enhance their reputation both at home and abroad,” he noted.

Alausa added that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu remained committed to positioning education as the most reliable driver of national development.

“Mr. President has always maintained that education is the greatest legacy we can leave for our children. This administration is building strong and lasting foundations to ensure inclusivity, especially for children with special needs, while setting a legacy for future governments to build upon,” he stated.

WAEC Defends Transition
Also speaking, WAEC’s Head of National Office, Dr. Amos Dangut, revealed that the council had already commenced the transition with private candidates in 2024, recording significant progress.

He announced that mock sessions and online practice platforms would soon be rolled out nationwide to familiarise students with the new system.

“No student will be left behind,” Dangut assured, adding that WAEC had successfully conducted CBT exams even in remote areas without disruptions.

He further allayed fears about infrastructure and cyber challenges, stressing that candidates’ performance on CBT platforms had proven better than with paper-based exams.

According to him, WAEC is fully committed to ensuring a smooth, inclusive, and effective transition as the 2026 deadline approaches.