WAEC Speaks on Cancellation of English Language Exam, Amid Pressure

In the wake of widespread speculation and social media uproar, the West African Examinations Council (WAEC), Nigeria, has formally debunked reports claiming that the 2025 West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE) English Language paper has been cancelled.

TJ News Nigeria reports that the council issued a firm denial on Tuesday, June 3, 2025, in a press release signed by Moyosola Adesina, anipr, the Acting Head of Public Affairs at WAEC Nigeria. The statement clarified that the alleged press release dated Friday, May 30, 2025, which claimed the cancellation of the English Language examination written on Wednesday, May 28, 2025, was false and did not originate from the Council.

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WAEC: The English Language Exam Has Not Been Cancelled

WAEC emphasized that the viral information making rounds on Facebook, WhatsApp, and other platforms is fabricated and should be disregarded.

“The said examination has not been cancelled,” WAEC stated. “Although the source of that information cannot be ascertained yet, the Council is certain that the false claim is being peddled by mischief-makers who are bent on bringing the Council to disrepute and causing confusion.”

TJ News Nigeria gathered that the now-debunked cancellation news caused considerable distress among thousands of candidates, parents, and educators across Nigeria, especially those preparing for upcoming papers.

WAEC Calls for Vigilance and Use of Official Channels

The Council further urged the public, particularly students and their guardians, to verify all updates regarding WASSCE through WAEC’s official communication channels. It also reiterated that:

• Authentic press statements are issued and signed only by the Public Affairs Department.

• WAEC does not disseminate examination updates through unofficial blogs or unverifiable platforms.

• Any announcements about cancellations, rescheduling, or updates will be clearly published on WAEC’s verified social media pages and official website.

Council Reassures Stakeholders of Integrity and Continuity

WAEC, in the statement, thanked Nigerians for their continued trust and support over the years, promising to maintain the integrity and credibility of its examinations.

“We appreciate the unwavering trust reposed in WAEC over the last 73 years. Our commitment to excellence and transparency remains unshaken. We will continue to improve our operations in the best interest of all stakeholders,” the Council concluded.

Public Reaction and Expert Opinions

Following WAEC’s clarification, several education stakeholders have called for tighter regulation of examination-related information on digital platforms. Some also suggested that WAEC should consider real-time press briefings or a dedicated alert system to counter future fake news promptly.

Dr. Ijeoma Anozie, an education consultant, told TJ News Nigeria that the recurring misinformation about WAEC exams is detrimental to students’ mental health and overall academic performance.

“Teenagers facing high-stakes exams already deal with enormous pressure. The spread of unverified news only heightens anxiety and undermines public trust in the system,” she said.

Final Word: Ignore Rumours, Trust Only Verified Sources

WAEC has made it clear: the 2025 English Language WASSCE paper has not been cancelled. Candidates are advised to continue their preparations as scheduled and avoid distractions from unverified sources.

WAEC’s verified channels for official updates include:

• Website: www.waecnigeria.org

• Twitter: @waecnigeri

TJ News Nigeria learnt that the examination body remains fully focused on conducting a seamless 2025 WASSCE cycle across all participating schools.