The West African Examinations Council (WAEC) has attributed the delay in the 2025 English Language examination to efforts aimed at preventing exam malpractice, particularly question paper leaks. The Paper 2 exam, scheduled for May 28, started several hours late in many centres across Nigeria, with some students reportedly writing as late as 10 p.m. under torchlights and lanterns due to power outages.
In a statement released Thursday, WAEC’s Acting Head of Public Affairs, Moyosola Adesina, explained that the delay was an unintended consequence of enhanced security measures to safeguard the integrity of the exam.
“While we successfully prevented any leakage, it inadvertently impacted the timeliness of the examination,” Adesina said.
WAEC also cited logistical issues, security concerns, and sociocultural factors as contributing to the disruption. To avoid a recurrence, the council said it is collaborating with security agencies to improve coordination and operational efficiency in future exams.
The council apologised to candidates, parents, and schools for the inconvenience and reaffirmed its commitment to conducting credible exams and ensuring student welfare.
The 2025 West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE) began on April 24 and is scheduled to conclude on June 20.
