WAEC Breaks Silence on Examination Delay, Mourns Three Staff Members

The West African Examinations Council (WAEC) has explained the reasons behind the delayed conduct of Mathematics and Agricultural Science papers in some centres during the ongoing 2026 West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE) for School Candidates.

In a press release issued on Monday, June 8, 2026, the examination body said it received reports of the delays with deep concern and immediately commenced investigations to determine the causes and prevent a recurrence.

According to WAEC, the delay resulted from a combination of logistical and operational challenges. The Council disclosed that one of the major setbacks was a tragic motor accident that occurred on Wednesday, June 3, 2026, involving personnel transporting sensitive examination materials across states.

The accident reportedly claimed the lives of three WAEC officials, disrupting the Council's distribution schedule and contributing significantly to the delayed commencement of examinations in affected centres.

WAEC noted that despite mourning the loss of its personnel, emergency contingency measures were activated to ensure that candidates in the affected areas were still able to sit for their examinations.

The Council further identified issues surrounding the finalization of examination modalities and late registration of candidates as factors that affected the timely preparation and distribution of examination materials.

It also cited prevailing security challenges in some parts of the country, including mass protests linked to the abduction of schoolchildren, which hindered the movement and delivery of examination materials despite efforts by the Council.

WAEC, however, assured candidates, parents, schools, and other stakeholders that adequate measures have been put in place to ensure the smooth conduct of the remaining papers. The Council pointed to the successful conduct of examinations on Friday, June 5, 2026, as evidence that the situation has been brought under control.

The examination body also appreciated the support and cooperation of its stakeholders, including the Federal and State Ministries of Education, the Nigeria Police Force, and other security agencies, describing them as valuable partners in the discharge of its responsibilities.