WASSCE examination controversies spark debate in Sierra Leone and Nigeria

Controversy has emerged regarding the authenticity of a purported notice announcing the release of the 2026 West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE) results for September 25, 2026. Journalist Sahid Bangura has raised concerns after a document, appearing to be from the Ministry of Basic and Senior Secondary Education, began circulating on social media. Discrepancies include the document being dated September 12, 2025, and featuring the signature of a former Education Minister.

In Nigeria, the WASSCE result controversy has prompted discussions regarding the status of the National Examinations Council (NECO). Following concerns raised by the National Association of Proprietors of Private Schools (NAPPS), stakeholders met with the Minister of Education, Dr Olatunji Alausa. The discussions emphasized the need to strengthen NECO as a credible national alternative to the regional West African Examinations Council (WAEC), advocating for the development of Nigeria’s own national examination body into a world-class institution.