From JAMB to WAEC: A Call for Accountability in Nigeria’s Education System

By Obisike Felix Kennedy

Yesterday the 28th day of May 2025, West African Senior Secondary Certificate Examination (WAEC) debacle has brought to the fore the pressing need for accountability and transparency in Nigeria’s education system. students across the country were subjected to untold hardship and stress as they wrote their English Language WAEC examination in the late hours of the night, with some centers concluding as late as 9 pm or 10pm. This unfortunate situation was precipitated by the leak of exam questions before the scheduled time, which necessitated the printing of new questions and subsequent delays in the distribution of exam materials.

The Plight of Students and Parents

As parents anxiously waited to support their children, they had to bring food and torchlights to the exam centers, underscoring the extent of the chaos and disorganization. The students, who were already under immense pressure to perform well, were left to endure unimaginable difficulties due to circumstances beyond their control. It’s nothing short of unconscionable that these young students had to suffer the consequences of the actions of a few individuals.

The Culture of Impunity

What’s even more disturbing is the likelihood that those responsible for the exam paper leak may not face any significant consequences. The lack of accountability in our education system is a recipe for disaster, undermining the integrity of our examinations and the value of our certificates. It’s imperative that those in positions of authority are held accountable for their actions, and the matter is thoroughly investigated to prevent such incidents in the future.

A Call for Systemic Change

The WAEC exam saga is a stark reminder of the need for a more robust and transparent system to prevent such incidents. The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) and WAEC exams are crucial milestones in the academic journey of Nigerian students. It’s high time we prioritize the integrity of our education system and ensure that those responsible for malfeasance are brought to justice.

The Way Forward

To prevent such incidents in the future, it’s essential that we:

– Implement more robust security measures to prevent exam leaks
– Ensure that those responsible for exam administration are held accountable for their actions
– Develop a more efficient system for printing and distributing exam materials
– Prioritize the welfare and well-being of students, who are the ultimate victims of such incidents

By taking these steps, we can restore the integrity of our education system and ensure that our students receive the respect and support they deserve.

Obisike Felix Kennedy writes from Umuahia.