In response to widespread rumours circulating on social media, the West African Examinations Council (WAEC) has firmly denied claims that it issued a directive limiting secondary school students to specific subjects for the upcoming 2026 West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE) for school candidates.
In a statement released on Tuesday by Moyosola Adeshina, the Acting Head of Public Affairs, and signed on behalf of the Head of National Office, the examination body described the reports as “unfounded assumptions” and urged the public to disregard them entirely.
According to the Council, the misleading information suggesting that schools had been told to restrict students’ subject combinations has no basis in fact.
No Restriction, No Directive — WAEC Sets the Record Straight
WAEC made it clear that it had not issued, and would not issue, any directive that limits students’ right to choose their preferred subjects.
“WAEC wishes to categorically distance itself from this unfounded assumption and the information making the rounds on the said subject,” the statement read. “The Council did not issue any such directive(s) nor restrict the choice of students to offer any particular subject(s) for WASSCE (SC) 2026 as alleged.”
The organisation emphasised that WAEC does not determine or modify school curricula, as that responsibility lies entirely with the Federal Government and other relevant education authorities.
Clarifying WAEC’s True Role in Education
WAEC explained that its role is to implement government-approved curricula by conducting credible assessments, not to develop or regulate what students are taught.
“The development and regulation of curricula in Nigeria is within the purview of the Federal Government,” the Council stated. “WAEC, as an examination body, only comes in to implement government policies via assessment.”
In other words, WAEC doesn’t make up new rules about what students can or cannot study; it simply tests what has already been approved by the education authorities.
The Council also reassured schools, parents, and students that any legitimate changes to the curriculum would follow due process and be communicated transparently through official channels.
A Call for Caution and Verification
The Council warned against the spread of misinformation, urging schools and the general public to always verify examination-related updates directly from WAEC’s official communications.
“Schools, stakeholders, and the general public are hereby advised to disregard the misleading reports and rely solely on official communications from the Council for accurate information regarding examination guidelines for WASSCE (SC) 2026,” the statement concluded.
This reminder is especially important in an era where social media misinformation can quickly spread and create confusion, particularly among students preparing for critical national exams.
A Legacy of Integrity and Excellence
Established in 1952, the West African Examinations Council serves five member countries: Nigeria, Ghana, Sierra Leone, The Gambia, and Liberia, and has built a reputation as one of the most credible examining bodies in Africa.
Over the decades, WAEC has remained committed to fairness, transparency, and professionalism in assessing millions of students each year. The Council reaffirmed that no candidate would be disadvantaged or restricted in any way during the forthcoming 2026 examinations.
Takeaway: Stay Informed, Stay Calm
The recent rumour highlights the need for parents, teachers, and students to double-check information before acting on it. Misinformation can create unnecessary panic, especially in the education sector, where trust and clarity are crucial.
WAEC’s message is clear: no restrictions, no secret directives, and no changes to the existing subject structure for the 2026 WASSCE.
So, before sharing that next viral post about education policy, take a moment to confirm it from official sources. Reliable information remains the best preparation for success, in exams and beyond.
