WASSCE delays force thousands to write exams late at night

The 2026 West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE) has been marred by severe logistical failures and delays, forcing thousands of candidates across multiple states to sit for papers late into the night under poor lighting conditions. The disruptions, which began earlier this week, have raised serious concerns about student welfare, examination integrity, and safety amid a backdrop of national insecurity.

Candidates in states including Oyo, Lagos, Osun, and Ogun have been affected. Reports indicate that examinations scheduled for morning and afternoon sessions have commenced hours late, often concluding after 10 p.m. On Wednesday, the General Mathematics objective paper, slated for a 3 p.m. start, began as late as 8:30 p.m. in some centers. The situation repeated on Thursday with the Agricultural Science practical examination, which was scheduled for 2 p.m. but had not started by 8 p.m. in several locations. Students were compelled to write using torchlights, mobile phone flashlights, and solar-powered lamps.

The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) has condemned the situation as unacceptable and dangerous. NANS President Akinteye Afeez stated that...