… to curb malpractice, align Nigeria’s exams with global standards
Oyemonla Adeshewa
The Federal Government has announced the transition of the West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE) from paper-based to Computer-Based Testing (CBT), bringing to a close 73 years of the traditional format since its introduction in 1952.
This reform, according to the government, will strengthen the integrity of our examinations, drastically reduce malpractice, and ensure Nigeria’s assessment system meets global standards.
Dr. Tunji Alausa, Minister of Education, made this known on Tuesday, in a statement obtained by Advisors Reports.
Advisors Reports gathered that this development marks a complete departure from the previous system, as the WASSCE had largely remained paper based.
The most recent edition in 2025 was still conducted physically, with WAEC only piloting Computer-Based Testing (CBT) in selected subjects on an optional basis for schools that had the required facilities.
According to the Minister, the country is witnessing a new era in its academic examinations.
He said, “Today, I had the honour of announcing a historic milestone in our education sector — the official transition of the West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE) to Computer-Based Testing (CBT).
“For over 73 years, WAEC, has remained a dependable partner in advancing education across West Africa.
“With innovations such as the Digital Examiners’ Mark Sheet, WAEC Konnect, the e-Learning platform, and the Digital Certificate Platform, the Council has consistently shown its commitment to technological progress.
“Under the leadership of President Bola Tinubu, our Renewed Hope Agenda is transforming education at every level,” he said.
The Minister further stated that from restructuring the national basic education and senior secondary education curriculum and upgrading classrooms with modern tools, to reforming our federal technical colleges, tertiary and medical education.
He added that the government is laying strong and sustainable foundations that will outlive us.
Dr. Alausa emphasised that the adoption of computer-based examinations is a deliberate step to safeguard the credibility of our certificates and empower the Nigerian child with the skills needed for a knowledge-driven economy.
He said, “As Minister of Education, I remain committed to ensuring that every Nigerian child has access to quality learning and the opportunity to fulfil their potential.
The Minister assured parents, teachers, and students that the Ministry of Education will collaborate with schools to ensure learners are well-prepared for the transition.
He said, “Together, we will make this a smooth, successful, and transformative step forward. Education is the greatest legacy we can give our children — and together, we are securing its future.
The Ministry reaffirmed its commitment to credible, technology-driven exams and world-class education for all Nigerian children
Hajia Binta Abdulkadir, WAEC Board Chair, called the CBT transition a paradigm shift, while WAEC Head Dr. Amos Dangut confirmed full rollout in 2026.
Senator Ekong Samson pledged National Assembly support, calling the reforms “an idea whose time has come.”
Rep. Oboku Oforji urged WAEC to establish at least one CBT centre in each of the 774 LGAs before 2026.
