Senate Summons WAEC, Minister Over New SSCE Guidelines

Senate Summons WAEC, Minister Over New SSCE Guidelines

Senate Summons Education Minister, WAEC Over New Exam Guidelines

The Senate has summoned the Minister of Education and the Head of the West African Examinations Council (WAEC) over newly introduced examination guidelines that lawmakers say could jeopardize students preparing for the 2025/2026 Senior Secondary Certificate Examination (SSCE).

The controversy stems from WAEC’s revised rules for the 2026 SSCE. Senator Sunday Karimi, representing Kogi West, who sponsored the motion, faulted WAEC for attempting immediate implementation, despite earlier indications that the new curriculum was intended for students currently in SS1, who are expected to sit the SSCE in 2027/2028.

He revealed that key subjects including Computer Studies, Civic Education, and several previously approved trade subjects, had been removed from the 2026 syllabus.

Karimi warned that the move undermines years of preparation by students and schools nationwide, and dramatically alters subject requirements for those already in SS3.

Other senators expressed concern that such an abrupt policy shift, coming just months before examinations, could lead to widespread failure and weaken public confidence in the nation’s education system.

During the debate, Deputy Senate President Barau Jibrin called for the suspension of further discussions until the Senate hears directly from the Minister of Education and WAEC leadership through its education committees.

The motion received support from Senator Abdul Ningi and was affirmed by Senate President Godswill Akpabio, who emphasized the need for clarity before any final decision is taken.

The Senate subsequently suspended further debate on the matter pending the outcome of the committee’s engagement with the education authorities.

Cov/ Bashir M