The West African Examinations Council (WAEC) has attributed the delayed conduct of Mathematics and Agricultural Science papers in parts of Nigeria during the ongoing 2026 WASSCE to a mix of logistical setbacks, security challenges and operational disruptions.
WAEC Explains Cause of Examination Delays
The Head of Public Affairs for WAEC Nigeria, Moyosola Adesina, said in a statement on Monday that the disruptions were linked to recent protests over the abduction of schoolchildren, alongside other unforeseen operational difficulties.
According to the council, the situation was further worsened by the death of three WAEC staff members in a road accident in Gombe State while transporting examination materials.
Students Affected Across Multiple Centres
The examination process came under criticism after candidates in several states experienced long delays before writing scheduled papers.
Reports showed that students waited for hours before sitting for examinations such as Physics, General Mathematics and other core subjects, with disruptions recorded in multiple centres.
In some parts of Oyo State, candidates were reportedly forced to complete their papers under poor lighting conditions, with videos showing students using torchlights and mobile phone flashlights.
WAEC Cites Security Concerns and Protests
WAEC said protests triggered by the abduction of schoolchildren in Oyo and Borno states also contributed to movement restrictions that affected the timely distribution of examination materials.
The council explained that the loss of personnel in the Gombe accident severely disrupted its logistics chain.
“First, the delay is the direct result of a devastating motor accident on Wednesday, June 3, 2026, which tragically claimed the lives of three of our dedicated personnel who were transporting sensitive examination materials interstate,” WAEC said.
It added that the incident, combined with prevailing security challenges, affected its distribution schedule.
Emergency Measures Activated
WAEC said it immediately activated contingency measures to minimise disruption and ensure that examinations were still conducted in affected centres despite the challenges.
The council also extended condolences to the families of the deceased staff, describing them as dedicated officers who died in active service.
Stakeholders Commended
WAEC acknowledged the support of the Federal and State Ministries of Education, the Nigeria Police Force and other security agencies in managing the situation.
It assured candidates and the public that corrective measures had been implemented to prevent a repeat of the disruptions and ensure smoother conduct of remaining papers.
The council reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining the integrity and credibility of the WASSCE across Nigeria.