By Mercy Aikoye
The House of Representatives Committee on Basic Education and Examination Bodies has criticized the West African Examinations Council (WAEC) over widespread irregularities and operational failures that marred the 2025 Senior Secondary School Certificate Examination. At an investigative hearing at the National Assembly, lawmakers grilled the Head of WAEC, Nigeria, Dr. Amos Dangut, over systemic lapses that have eroded public trust in Nigeria’s examination process.
The committee’s chairman, Oforji Oboku, expressed disappointment with WAEC’s performance and commended his colleagues for prioritizing the oversight meeting despite the parliament not being in session. He apologized to Nigerian parents, guardians, and candidates who suffered the chaos of the last examination cycle and emphasized the committee’s commitment to ensuring that such incidents never happen again.
Lawmakers described WAEC’s failures as “habitual negligence” and “lack of preparation,” with some members calling for Dr. Dangut’s resignation. They criticized the council’s plan to roll out computer-based testing centers nationwide by 2026, citing the lack of infrastructure in many local governments. The committee also raised concerns about the reputational damage Nigeria has suffered across West Africa due to WAEC’s failings.
The session became rowdy as lawmakers voiced their displeasure over WAEC’s performance. One lawmaker shouted, “Admit your failure to the Nigerian people… If you need to cry, go ahead. But when you’re done, tender your resignation.” Dr. Dangut’s explanations, citing unforeseen logistical challenges and insecurity, were repeatedly interrupted and dismissed as inadequate.
The committee passed a resolution compelling WAEC to submit a comprehensive audit of its digital infrastructure and a detailed roadmap on its computer-based testing readiness. WAEC was also directed to furnish the National Assembly with its full operational guidelines and reports relating to examination paper leakages.
In his closing remarks, Oforji emphasized the importance of competence, honesty, and reform in education. He stated, “This is a defining moment. We must insist on competence, honesty, and reform. Education is too critical to be managed by trial and error. The future of our children, and our nation, is at stake.”
The committee’s investigation aims to identify the underlying causes of WAEC’s repeated failures and hold those responsible accountable. The outcome of the investigation is expected to shed light on the necessary reforms and actions required to restore dignity and credibility to Nigeria’s examination system.
