The West African Examinations Council (WAEC) has released the 2025 West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE) results, revealing a sharp drop in performance as only 38.32% of candidates obtained credits and above in a minimum of five subjects, including English Language and Mathematics.
Announcing the results at a press briefing in Lagos, Head of Nigeria National Office, Dr. Amos Dangut, disclosed that out of 1,969,313 candidates who sat for the examination, only 754,545 met the benchmark for university admission, marking a steep 33.8% drop from the 72.12% recorded in 2024.
“This year’s result reflects a concerning decline. The Council is deeply worried,” Dangut said.
WAEC noted that 1,973,365 candidates registered for the examination from 23,554 recognised secondary schools across Nigeria. While the examination also included candidates from Benin Republic, Côte d’Ivoire, and Equatorial Guinea, the figures represent a comprehensive reflection of the Nigerian academic system.
WAEC also announced that it withheld the results of 192,089 candidates — representing 9.75% of total candidates — due to various reported cases of examination malpractice. These include the illegal use of cell phones in examination halls and organised cheating in some schools.
“All cases are currently under investigation. Affected candidates will be notified through their schools, and redress procedures are open for those who wish to challenge the allegations,” Dangut stated.
He reaffirmed WAEC’s zero-tolerance policy on malpractice, warning that schools, supervisors, and candidates involved in such activities are undermining the integrity of the education system.
WAEC said that candidates who fulfilled their financial obligations can access their results via www.waecdirect.org within 12 hours. Digital certificates will be available 48 hours after result release, while hard-copy certificates are expected within 90 days.
WAEC also cautioned that the results of candidates from states that owe the Council will be withheld until outstanding payments are made.
A total of 12,178 special needs candidates participated in the examination. These include 112 visually challenged candidates, 615 hearing impaired, and 52 candidates with physical and intellectual disabilities.
Dangut commended efforts to improve inclusivity in the exam process for students with disabilities.
As reactions continue to trail the poor performance figures, education stakeholders are expected to review the underlying causes and propose reforms to address what has now become a systemic concern.
