WAEC Speaks Out: No Cancellation of May 28 English Exam, Blames Mischief-Makers for False Report

 

The West African Examinations Council (WAEC), Nigeria, has officially dismissed a viral rumour suggesting that it cancelled the English Language paper administered on Wednesday, May 28, 2025. The examination body described the claim as entirely false and malicious, urging students and the general public to disregard it.

Social media platforms have, over the past few days, been flooded with a supposed press release allegedly from WAEC, indicating that the English Language exam had been invalidated. The forged document further suggested that a new date would soon be announced for the re-conduct of the paper. However, WAEC has firmly denied any such development.

Addressing the situation on Tuesday, June 2, 2025, the Acting Head of Public Affairs of WAEC Nigeria, Moyosola Adesina, issued a statement clarifying that the viral release was not authorized by the Council and had no connection to its official communication channels.

WAEC stated that it was deeply concerned about the origin and spread of the false information, which it believes was engineered by individuals with the intent to undermine the integrity of the examination process and to generate unnecessary anxiety among candidates and stakeholders.

Moyosola Adesina emphasized that the Council has not made any announcement regarding the cancellation of the English Language examination, and no such decision has been taken. “The management of the West African Examinations Council would like to state that the press release being circulated did not emanate from the Council. The said examination has not been cancelled,” she said.

Efforts to trace the origin of the fabricated release are ongoing. However, WAEC suspects the act was committed by those aiming to damage the Council’s reputation and destabilize the examination schedule. These actors, it added, are attempting to sow confusion and create a climate of distrust during a critical academic exercise.

The Council reaffirmed its commitment to transparency and due process, stating that all its official announcements and updates are disseminated through its verified social media accounts and trusted media outlets across the country. “All press releases are issued and signed by the Public Affairs Department of the Council on behalf of the Head of National Office,” the statement clarified.

For over seventy years, WAEC has played a central role in shaping the academic landscape of Nigeria and other West African nations through its standardized examinations. The Council used this opportunity to thank the public for its enduring trust and confidence in its operations.

WAEC’s assurance comes at a crucial time when candidates are still actively engaged in the ongoing West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE) for School Candidates, 2025. The confirmation that the English Language paper remains valid provides much-needed clarity for students and schools across the country.

Despite the widespread nature of the misinformation, WAEC urged the public to exercise caution and verify all information with official sources before sharing. The Council also encouraged stakeholders—schools, parents, and candidates—to remain focused and not allow the false report to distract them from the ongoing examinations.

Stakeholders in the education sector have lauded WAEC’s prompt response to the rumour, noting that swift and transparent communication is essential in curbing the influence of fake news in today's digital landscape.

As the examination season progresses, the Council reiterated its dedication to conducting fair, credible, and timely assessments. It also noted that it is continually seeking innovative ways to improve its services and uphold the standards that have defined its legacy for over seven decades.

WAEC’s firm stance serves as both a reassurance to candidates and a warning to those who seek to disrupt the educational process. As misinformation continues to pose a threat to institutions and individuals alike, the importance of relying on official communication channels cannot be overstated.

With the English paper still recognized as valid and no changes made to the WASSCE schedule, candidates can confidently proceed with their examinations, assured of the Council’s unwavering support and vigilance.