The House of Representatives has asked the Federal Ministry of Education to urgently reverse the recent removal of key subjects including Civic Education, Computer Studies, Data Processing and Electrical Installation from the West African Examination Council (WAEC) registration portal.
The lawmakers issued the call during Thursday’s plenary after adopting a motion of urgent public importance raised by Oboku Oforji, who represents the Yenagoa/Opokuma Federal Constituency of Bayelsa State.
Presenting his motion, Oforji stressed that although curriculum reviews are necessary, the removed subjects are central to national development and digital advancement.
He argued that Computer Studies is now a basic global skill and widely taught in Nigerian schools, making its removal unreasonable in a digital age.
Civic Education, once compulsory teaches young people their rights, responsibilities and duties as citizens, especially important since the National Orientation Agency prioritises civic awareness.
Many students in SS1–SS3 have spent years preparing for subjects like Data Processing, which are vital in today’s technology-driven economy.
Oforji described the decision as “insensitive,” especially with computer-based testing rapidly becoming the norm for national examinations.
The legislator noted that the change leaves students with fewer than the minimum eight mandatory subjects, creating academic and psychological pressure.
With only four months left before the 2026 WASSCE, he said it is “academically impossible” for SS3 students to switch to unfamiliar subjects just to meet examination requirements.
He warned that thousands of students nationwide are confused and distressed, and urged the Ministry of Education to allow them to write the subjects they have studied since SS1.
Following the debate, Deputy Speaker Benjamin Kalu put the motion to a voice vote and it was unanimously adopted.
The House then directed the Ministry of Education to immediately suspend implementation of the directive and restore the subjects on the WAEC portal to ensure students have a fair chance in the upcoming exams.
It also resolved to establish an ad hoc committee to investigate the matter and monitor compliance.
Insightlinks recalled that in September 2025, the Federal Government announced major changes to the primary and secondary school curriculum. One of the biggest changes was merging Civic Education, Nigerian History and Social Studies into a new subject called Citizenship and Heritage Studies.
The reform also reduced the overall number of subjects and attempted to streamline vocational courses.
However, the rollout has caused widespread confusion among students, parents and teachers especially after reports emerged that subjects like Civic Education and Computer Studies were no longer appearing on the 2026 WAEC registration portal.
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