WAEC Staff Union Protests Over Welfare Issues
The Non-Academic Staff Union of Educational Institutions and Allied Institutions has initiated a three-day protest in response to persisting welfare concerns and allegations of unfair labor practices within the West African Examinations Council (WAEC). This action began on Wednesday and is expected to disrupt operations at several WAEC offices as workers demand management’s attention to their grievances.
Protest Actions Nationwide
The protest commenced at 8 AM at the WAEC National Office in Yaba, Lagos, with simultaneous demonstrations taking place at regional and state offices across Nigeria. This organized approach aims to amplify the voices of staff who are increasingly frustrated by unresolved issues that impact their working conditions.
Unresolved Demands Following Ultimatum
This protest follows the expiration of a seven-day ultimatum issued by NASU national leadership to WAEC management, highlighting nine key demands. Among these are allegations of irregular recruitment practices and inadequate welfare conditions for WAEC staff.
WASSCE Participation Amidst Industrial Action
In the backdrop of the protests, Nigeria, Ghana, Gambia, Liberia, and Sierra Leone are currently administering the West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE) for approximately 1,959,636 candidates from 24,207 schools across Nigeria over the May/June 2026 period.
Assurances from WAEC Leadership
In light of the unrest, WAEC’s National Office Director, Amos Dangut, has committed to a thorough investigation into the concerns raised, assuring stakeholders that corrective measures are being implemented to address deficiencies observed in the previous year’s examination process. Despite these assurances, the staff union has opted to proceed with the protests as they feel their grievances remain unaddressed.
Statement from WAEC Public Relations
The WAEC Public Relations Officer, Moyosola Adesina, assured candidates, parents, school management, and other stakeholders that the ongoing WASSCE would proceed without interruption. Adesina emphasized the council’s commitment to ensuring a smooth examination process during these turbulent times.
Commitment to Address Grievances
WAEC reiterated its dedication to respecting the rights of workers and trade unions to express their grievances within legal boundaries. The council noted that despite the protests, examinations would continue as planned and affirmed that management is working diligently to resolve the issues raised by staff.
Steps to Manage Workload
Furthermore, WAEC explained that the involvement of contract examiners and examination assistants is a strategic measure designed to manage the increasing workload efficiently and maintain the integrity of operations across the subregion.
