By Esther Igomu
WAEC Portal Shutdown Sparks Outrage Over Result Errors, CBT Plans
There was uproar across Nigeria after the West African Examinations Council (WAEC) shut down its result portal due to technical errors in the 2025 WASSCE results, prompting strong reactions from students, parents, and education stakeholders.
WAEC explained that a post-release review exposed glitches linked to a new anti-malpractice method called paper serialisation, introduced in Mathematics, English, Biology, and Economics. The council said the error affected result accuracy and temporarily suspended access to the portal to make corrections.
“Candidates who already checked their results should re-check from Friday,” said Moyosola Adesina, WAEC’s Head of Public Affairs.
The shutdown followed Monday’s announcement that only 38.32% of over 1.9 million candidates secured five credits including English and Mathematics—the lowest pass rate in ten years.
Reactions were swift. The National Association of Parent-Teacher Associations of Nigeria (NAPTAN) acknowledged WAEC’s apology but criticised the planned transition to full Computer-Based Testing (CBT), calling it unrealistic due to poor infrastructure and low digital literacy, especially in rural areas.
The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) condemned the council’s failure to test its system thoroughly. “This is not just a technical failure, it’s failed leadership,” said NANS Assistant Secretary, Adejuwon Olatunji, demanding sanctions and reforms.
On social media, parents and students expressed anger, questioning the sudden changes in scores and calling for script reviews. Many described the glitch as careless and distressing.
Meanwhile, the Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT) urged Nigerians not to blame teachers for the mass failure. NUT President, Audu Amba, pointed to poor student attitudes, lack of parental involvement, and underfunded schools as deeper issues. He also faulted WAEC for not completing internal checks before publishing the results.
In response, the Federal Ministry of Education confirmed the issue had been resolved and commended WAEC for its swift action. The Ministry restated its commitment to phased CBT reforms from 2026, aiming to strengthen exam credibility and curb malpractice.
Despite reassurances, concerns over WAEC’s capacity to manage digital reforms and protect the integrity of public examinations remain.
