Nigeria Not Yet Ready for CBT-Based WAEC & NECO Exams—Experts Reveal Why

Some education stakeholders have stated that Nigeria is not yet ready for a full shift to computer-based testing for either West African Examinations Council or National Examination Council exams.

Dr. Tunji Alausa, the Minister of Education, directed the West African Examinations Council and the National Examinations Council in April to implement full CBT for all examinations by 2026.

He claimed that both WAEC and NECO would begin administering objective papers using CBT in November, with full adoption—including both essay and objective components—beginning in May/June 2026.

However, education professionals who talked with The PUNCH characterized the timeframe as hasty and unworkable.

They found problems such as inadequate infrastructure, unstable electricity, poor Internet connectivity, student and teacher unpreparedness, and limited computer access—particularly in rural regions.

Adeolu Ogunbanjo, Chairman of the Board of Trustees of the National Parent-Teacher Association of Nigeria, stated that a natural first step would be for WAEC to construct at least one CBT center in each of the 774 local government areas.

He explained that the examination organizations could put up such centers separately or collaboratively, but that the timescale was too short to complete this before the 2026 deadline.

Ogunbanjo also expressed concern about the unpredictable power supply, emphasizing the importance of backup systems in all CBT centers.

“Next year is too soon to finish this. I’d advise moving it to 2027. Adequate preparation is critical to ensuring that no student is left behind. WAEC and NECO cannot rely on current CBT centers employed by the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board.

“There’s also the question of backup. We are all aware of the country’s current electricity issue. CBT centers must have dependable backup power to avoid downtime. We cannot have a situation in which pupils write tests using torches or lanterns. “That would be embarrassing for a regional body like WAEC, and it should be avoided,” he said.

Also speaking, Dr. Dideolu Adekogbe, Lead Consultant at Florish-Gate Global Consult, emphasized the lack of digital readiness among schools, instructors, and students.

She mentioned that many rural villages struggle with limited electricity and internet connectivity.

According to her, several government-owned schools lack the computers and laboratories needed for computer-based exams.

“It’s an excellent idea, but we’re not prepared. How many of our schools are computerized? You’re talking about millions of pupils sitting exams in nine courses. Do you know how many schools are in Nigeria?

“How many are digitized and prepared for this?” How many of our children, particularly in isolated communities, know how to operate a computer? Some people have never seen one. Is electricity consistent? Is the internet stable in such areas?

“And how about the teachers? How many of them are technologically proficient enough to train students? Many public schools still lack adequate infrastructure. “This reform can happen, but not now,” Adekogbe stated.

Dr. Layo Adeniyi, an educationist and author, hailed CBT as a step in the right direction—if accompanied by digital literacy training beginning at the primary level.

“I believe it is a positive step since it will pique students’ interest in information technology, which is becoming increasingly important for education and growth.

“However, the government must incorporate computer education into the fundamental curriculum so that pupils develop progressive digital skills as they advance. This is the worldwide trend, which explains why other countries are moving faster,” Adeniyi said.

Mr. Ijaduoye Olasukanmi, former president of the National Association of Polytechnic Students, expressed additional worries regarding access, particularly for students in rural regions who may have to travel considerable distances to CBT sites.

He cautioned that this could generate financial and logistical challenges for many people.

“For someone living in a rural region with no internet connectivity, transportation to a CBT center in the main town could cost between N1,500 and N2,000. How can they afford it on every exam day? It will be an enormous load. “We must consider students from underserved communities,” he stated.

Ijaduoye also questioned the effectiveness of CBT in improving academic depth, claiming that it may promote guessing.

He raised concern that CBT could instill a shortcut attitude in students rather than developing strong reading habits and critical thinking skills.

“The format does not inherently encourage deep learning. If not properly administered, it has the potential to dilute academic rigor,” he warned.

Across the board, stakeholders advocated for long-term investment in digital education infrastructure, such as teacher training, gradual curriculum reform, and inclusive planning, to guarantee that no student falls behind in the transition to CBT.