The West African Examinations Council has rejected claims that technical difficulties with the Computer Based Test format were responsible for the poor performance recorded by some candidates in the 2026 West African Senior School Certificate Examination.
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The controversy followed concerns raised over candidates’ performances after the release of the examination results, with some stakeholders questioning whether technical problems associated with the transition to computer based examinations affected students.
WAEC has, however, maintained that the introduction of stronger examination security measures was a major factor behind the results.
The council’s position comes against the backdrop of growing scrutiny of the computer based examination system, which is being introduced as part of efforts to modernise assessment and strengthen the credibility of public examinations in Nigeria.
Earlier reports had contained allegations of technical problems affecting some candidates during the examination. The claims generated concern among students, parents and education stakeholders.
WAEC’s response has shifted attention from alleged technical difficulties to the broader issue of examination malpractice and the measures being deployed to prevent candidates from gaining unfair advantages.
The council has increasingly relied on technology and tighter monitoring to detect irregularities and protect the integrity of its examinations.
For many education stakeholders, the debate highlights one of the major challenges facing Nigeria’s examination system. As more examinations move from paper to computer platforms, examination bodies must ensure that the technology is reliable while simultaneously preventing malpractice.
The issue has therefore become bigger than the performance of individual candidates. It raises questions about how Nigeria can balance technological transformation with fairness, accessibility and effective preparation for students.
WAEC’s position also underscores the importance of ensuring that students understand the demands of the new examination environment before sitting for high stakes tests.
With computer based examinations becoming increasingly common, schools and parents are expected to give students adequate exposure to digital testing rather than treating the transition as merely a change from paper to computers.
The controversy is likely to keep the spotlight on WAEC as stakeholders seek greater clarity about examination performance, technical readiness and the effectiveness of anti malpractice measures.
For students preparing for future examinations, the message is clear: strong academic preparation and familiarity with computer based testing are becoming increasingly important as Nigeria’s examination system moves further into the digital era.
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