The ongoing 2026 West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE), conducted by the West African Examinations Council (WAEC), is facing significant operational challenges, with reports indicating that examination papers at various centres are being administered late into the night.

Reported Disruptions

Parents, school administrators, and education stakeholders have expressed deep concern over the recurring delays, which echo similar issues reported during last year’s examination cycle. Recent reports indicate:

  • Significant Delays: Examinations scheduled for mid-afternoon have, in some instances, concluded as late as 10:00 p.m.

  • Geographic Impact: Disruptions have been particularly noted in Lagos, including areas on Lagos Island and the Lekki axis.

  • Logistical Failures: Schools have reported delays in the delivery of examination materials, with candidates waiting hours for supervisors or question papers to arrive.

  • Financial Complaints: Some parents have alleged that schools are imposing additional charges for essential materials, such as mathematics sets, required for the exams.

Stakeholder Concerns

The situation has drawn widespread criticism regarding the management of the examinations and the welfare of the candidates.

  • Psychological and Physical Well-being: Stakeholders point out the toll that long wait times take on students' ability to concentrate, as well as the safety risks associated with students returning home late at night.

  • Failure to Improve: Principals and parents have expressed frustration that despite the history of these issues, WAEC has yet to implement sustainable solutions to prevent these systemic delays.

WAEC Response

While an official public statement has yet to be released, a WAEC official speaking without authorization acknowledged that the council is aware of "hitches due to unforeseen circumstances." The official indicated that efforts are underway to resolve the issues and return to normal scheduling. In the meantime, there is mounting pressure on the examination body to provide transparency regarding the cause of these disruptions and to guarantee the integrity and safety of the examination process for all candidates.