West African Examinations Council faces fee and technical controversies

The West African Examinations Council (WAEC) and the National Examinations Council (NECO) are facing criticism following the introduction of a N4,000 one-off result verification fee for students seeking tertiary admission. Critics argue the fee places an undue financial burden on families and note that the combined revenue from nearly two million candidates could reach approximately N7.84 billion.

Separately, the WAEC recruitment process has come under scrutiny after applicants reported significant technical failures during a recent computer-based aptitude test. Candidates alleged network disruptions, difficulties accessing the examination portal, and insufficient communication regarding test times and venues. Some applicants expressed frustration, citing these digital failures as a barrier to successful recruitment efforts.