The resolution followed a motion of urgent national importance moved by Hon. Kelechi Nworgu during plenary on Thursday. Nworgu warned that implementing the CBT system without adequate preparation could create a national education crisis.
He noted that, unlike the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB), which has successfully used CBT for tertiary entrance exams, most Nigerian secondary schools lack the necessary infrastructure to support such a digital transition.
“Most of the over 25,500 schools across Nigeria, especially those in rural areas, have no functional computers, stable electricity, or trained ICT teachers,” Nworgu said. “Many students have never operated a computer before, yet they are expected to write up to nine subjects through CBT, including theoretical and practical papers.”
The lawmaker added that the sudden rollout could result in widespread academic failure, depression, and other social consequences among young learners. He urged WAEC and the Ministry of Education to postpone the CBT plan for at least three years and aim for full implementation between the 2029 and 2030 academic sessions after sufficient infrastructure and teacher training have been achieved.
In adopting the motion, the House directed WAEC and the Federal Ministry of Education to suspend all plans for CBT in the 2026 exams. It also recommended that the government allocate funds from the 2026 national budget for recruiting computer teachers, setting up ICT laboratories with internet access, and installing standby power systems in schools nationwide.
Additionally, the House mandated its Committees on Basic Examination Bodies, Digital and Information Technology, Basic Education and Services, and Labour, Employment and Productivity to engage with stakeholders and present a comprehensive report within four weeks to guide future legislative action.
