By DAYO ADESULU
Over 1.9 Million Candidates Sit for 2026 Computer-Based WASSCE
The Head of the Nigeria National Office of the West African Examinations Council (WAEC), Dr Amos Josiah Dangut,
has assured Nigerians that the council is fully prepared to conduct a credible and seamless 2026 Computer-Based West African Senior School Certificate Examination (CB-WASSCE) despite prevailing security challenges across parts of the country.
Dangut gave the assurance on Monday during a press briefing held at the WAEC National Office in Yaba, Lagos, where he provided updates on the ongoing CB-WASSCE for School Candidates, 2026.
According to him, the examination, which began on April 21 with practical papers, will conclude on June 19, spanning eight weeks and three days.
The WAEC HNO disclosed that a total of 1,959,636 candidates from 24,207 schools registered for the examination nationwide.
He explained that 958,564 candidates representing 48.92 per cent are male, while 1,001,072 candidates representing 51.08 per cent are female, indicating a rise in female participation compared to the previous year.
More Schools Embrace Computer-Based WASSCE
Dangut noted that more schools embraced the computer-based examination mode this year following the successful implementation of the initiative in 2025.
He said although many schools initially preferred the traditional pen-and-paper format during the maiden edition, confidence in the digital system has continued to grow due to its seamless operation and alignment with global best practices.
“The success recorded in the 2025 edition encouraged more schools to opt for the computer-based format this year,” he stated.
The WAEC boss added that some offshore schools in neighbouring countries that adopt the WAEC syllabus also participated in the CB-WASSCE.
He further revealed that the council had strengthened its paper serialization technology to uphold examination integrity.
According to him, the innovation ensures that no two candidates receive the same sequence of questions during examinations.
“This system has further enhanced transparency and reduced opportunities for examination malpractice,” Dangut said.
WAEC Tightens Measures Against Examination Malpractice
Speaking on examination malpractice, Dangut warned candidates, supervisors, and schools against engaging in any form of misconduct during the examination process.
He stressed that WAEC would impose strict penalties on offenders in line with decisions approved by the Nigeria Examinations Committee (NEC).
“The Council decisively addresses examination malpractice. Schools involved in mass cheating will be de-recognised, supervisors punished, and candidates sanctioned,” he warned.
Dangut also cautioned parents against patronising rogue website operators who claim to provide leaked examination questions.
According to him, WAEC, in collaboration with security agencies, especially the Nigeria Police Force, is tracking and prosecuting operators of fraudulent websites.
“We warn rogue website operators that WAEC will not condone their activities. Parents must avoid patronising them because doing so jeopardises the future of their children,” he added.
WAEC Collaborates With Security Agencies
Addressing concerns over insecurity in some parts of the country, the WAEC HNO admitted that the situation posed challenges to the conduct of examinations.
However, he maintained that the council had continued to work closely with security agencies and state governments to ensure smooth conduct of the examination nationwide.
Dangut specifically acknowledged the support of the Nigeria Police Force and other security outfits in safeguarding examination materials and centres.
“The Council continues to partner with the Nigeria Police Force, all security outfits and State Governments to provide adequate security for the smooth conduct of the examination,” he said.
WAEC Expands Digital Services for Candidates
Dangut highlighted several digital innovations introduced by WAEC to improve service delivery and support candidates.
Among them are the WAEC Digital Certificate platform, which allows candidates from 1999 till date to access certificates online globally, and the Digital Examiners Marks System for real-time monitoring of examiners during marking exercises.
Other services include the WAEC Verify platform for institutions to confirm candidates’ results, the WAEC Chatbot, Centre Locator service, and the Examination Malpractice Portal for complaints and appeals.
The council also unveiled additional academic support platforms such as the WAEC E-Study Portal and WAEC E-Learning Portal, which provide past questions, marking schemes, performance insights, and learning resources for candidates.
Results to Be Released 45 Days After Final Paper
Dangut announced that WAEC would release the 2026 CB-WASSCE results within 45 days after the last paper.
He added that certificates would be printed and distributed to schools within 90 days, while digital copies would also be accessible through the WAEC Digital Certificate platform.
Reaffirming the council’s commitment to credible examinations, Dangut said WAEC remained prepared to deliver a successful CB-WASSCE in collaboration with the Federal Ministry of Education, State Ministries of Education, security agencies, and other stakeholders.
“We remain grateful to all partners for their support and call on the media to continue partnering with us to ensure success,” he stated.
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