Strike: WAEC argues for students, stating that planned tests will still take place

The West Africa Examination Council (WAEC) has made it clear that it is not in support of the nationwide strike declared by the Nigerian Labour Congress (NLC) and the Trade Union Congress (TUC).

After a meeting with the leadership of the National Assembly in Abuja on Sunday evening, the NLC and TUC announced a nationwide strike starting on Monday. However, WAEC has stated that the West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE) will continue as scheduled, despite the strike.

In a statement issued by the Head of National Officer, Branch Controller, WAEC, T.A.Y Lawson, it was emphasized that the exams will proceed as planned. While acknowledging the concerns of the unions and the general public, WAEC stressed that the exams will take place in all member countries and that Nigerian students should not be disadvantaged by missing the exams.

Therefore, WAEC has urged school principals, supervisors, parents, and the general public to make necessary arrangements for students to sit for the exams. The statement also listed the subjects to be taken on Monday, including Physics 3 (Practical) (Alternative B), Computer Studies 3 (Practical), Insurance 2 (Essay), and Insurance 1 (Objective).

The NLC and TUC have been advocating for an increase in the minimum wage, stating that the current wage of ₦30,000 is insufficient to meet the needs of Nigerian workers. They have also expressed concern that not all governors are implementing the current wage award, which expired in April 2024, five years after the Minimum Wage Act of 2019 was signed. The unions believe that the Act should be reviewed every five years to ensure it aligns with the current economic situation.