The Nigerian government has firmly denied circulating rumors alleging plans to cancel two major secondary school examinations—the West African Examinations Council (WAEC) and the National Examinations Council (NECO) tests—scheduled for 2025. In a statement issued on Sunday in Abuja, the Federal Ministry of Education dismissed the claims as “entirely fabricated” and designed to incite public alarm.
Director of Press and Public Relations Folasade Boriowo clarified that the ministry had no intention of scrapping the exams, emphasizing that integrity measures remain a priority. “The 2025 WAEC examinations have already been successfully concluded, with only isolated incidents of malpractice, all swiftly resolved,” Boriowo stated. She further noted that neither WAEC, NECO, nor any affiliated body had reported systemic irregularities to the ministry, undermining the rumors’ credibility.
The statement urged citizens to rely solely on verified sources for updates, directing the public to official portals such as the ministry’s website (www.education.gov.ng), WAEC Nigeria (www.waecnigeria.org), and NECO (www.neco.gov.ng). Boriowo reiterated the government’s commitment to “upholding the credibility and fairness” of national exams, citing ongoing collaborations with examination bodies to enhance oversight and prevent misconduct.
Authorities also issued a stern warning against disseminating unverified claims, noting that purveyors of false information could face legal action. “Security agencies will investigate and prosecute individuals found spreading misinformation,” Boriowo added, underscoring the potential consequences of undermining public trust in educational institutions.
The denial follows recurring concerns over exam malpractice in Nigeria, though the ministry’s response stresses that recent tests proceeded without major disruptions. By addressing the rumors directly, officials aim to preempt confusion among students, parents, and educators ahead of future examinations.
