The House of Representatives has called on the Federal Government, through the Ministry of Education, to reconsider the decision to remove Civic Education, Computer Studies, and Electrical Installation from the West African Examination Council (WAEC) portal, stressing the subjects’ importance to national development.
The resolution followed the adoption of a motion of urgent public importance presented on Thursday by Oboku Oforji, the member representing Yenagoa/Opokuma Federal Constituency, Bayelsa State.
Oforji acknowledged the need for periodic curriculum reviews but argued that the affected subjects are critical to students’ future and the modern economy.
He said, “While acknowledging the efforts to enhance the national curriculum, the timing is just not right.
Trade subjects like Data Processing are among the most popular and widely offered subjects in many schools across the country because of their market relevance and students’ interest.
“Computer Studies is almost universally offered and is fundamental to modern digital literacy, making its sudden removal counterproductive at a time when the world is going digital.
Similarly, Civic Education, previously a compulsory subject in all secondary schools, continues to be crucial as it fosters civic awareness and responsibility among students.”
Oforji further criticized the decision, noting that “most of our examination bodies are adopting computer-based testing models.
How will students learn the basics if Computer Science is removed? Students in SS3 have been studying these subjects from SS1, and removing them now disrupts their preparation.”
He expressed concern that the removal of multiple foundational subjects could leave students with only five out of the required eight subjects for the WAEC, creating confusion and stress for thousands preparing for the 2026 examinations.
“It is academically impossible for students to select and adequately prepare for new subjects with only four months to the exams,” he added.
The motion was adopted via a voice vote presided over by Deputy Speaker Benjamin Kalu. Following the adoption, the House urged the Ministry of Education to “rescind the implementation of the directive and give students a fair chance of success at the examinations.”
The House also resolved to establish ad-hoc committee to review the matter and ensure compliance.
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