WAEC promises a hitch‑free WASSCE, while union plans a strike today

By Elizabeth Osayande

The West African Examinations Council (WAEC) has announced that negotiations are underway to resolve staff complaints.

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WAEC reassured candidates, parents, school owners, stakeholders and the public that it remains committed to conducting the 2026 West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE) smoothly and without disruption.

Earlier this week, the Council declared its readiness to hold the 2026 WASSCE peacefully, but some members threatened a three‑day protest starting Wednesday, citing alleged managerial overreach, illegal recruitment, and new pay policies.

The unions

The protest is reportedly being organized by the Non‑Academic Staff Union of Educational and Associated Institutions (NASU), which accuses WAEC management of making unilateral decisions, violating seniority rules, and imposing punitive actions on staff.

In a letter dated May 5 signed by NASU General Secretary Peters Adeyemi, the union outlined several grievances and issued a seven‑day ultimatum for resolution before the planned strike.

Key concerns include the suspension of staff upgrade programmes, the introduction of a minimum net pay policy, the formation of investigative panels without consultation, recruitment practices, and alterations to the WASSCE structure.

NASU stated that its members had agreed to proceed with the protest after the ultimatum expired, following an online meeting of its branches nationwide.

The union warned that the industrial action could intensify if management does not meet its demands.

WAEC’s assurances

In a press statement released by the Public Affairs Department on Wednesday and signed by Acting Head of Public Affairs for the National Office, Moyosola F. Adesina, WAEC emphasized its commitment to protecting the rights of unions and staff while safeguarding the integrity and smooth operation of the examination.

She said: “While we are concerned about the rights of unions and staff to express their grievances, we are also committed to ensuring seamless and smooth conduct of the ongoing examination.”

“The adjustment to the examination schedule was necessary because WAEC has reduced the number of subjects from 76 to 38. The shortened timetable reflects this change and the hybrid mode of exam delivery.”

“All disciplinary and career progression matters are handled in accordance with the WAEC staff handbook and relevant statutory provisions. Therefore, claims of frequent dismissals and inappropriate sanctions made by the union are unfounded. The hiring of contract Examination Officers and Assistant Examination Officers is a measure to manage increasing workloads and maintain efficient operations across the sub‑region.”

“We understand that the situation may cause panic or anxiety, but we wish to state categorically that the future of our candidates remains our topmost priority. Management is in dialogue with the union, and we have implemented adequate measures to keep the examination schedule intact.”

“We urge the public to disregard any rumours or misinformation that could create confusion about the examination. All necessary information is available through our verified and accredited communication channels.”

“The Council remains committed to delivering on its mandate of conducting qualitative and reliable educational assessments for Nigerian children. Thank you for reposing confidence in us over these seventy‑four years.”

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