By Elizabeth Osayande

The Administrative and Finance Committee of the West African Examinations Council, WAEC, has expressed full confidence in the leadership of the Nigeria National Office under the Head of National Office, Dr Amos Josiah Dangut, following its 240th meeting held in Ibadan, Oyo State.

Recently, the Council announced its readiness and preparedness for the peaceful conduct of the ongoing 2026 West African Senior School Certificate Examination, WASSCE, for school candidates. However, some Council members threatened to embark on a three-day protest over alleged management high-handedness, illegal recruitment, and the imposition of pay policies.

The protest was reportedly organised by the Non-Academic Staff Union of Educational and Associated Institutions, NASU, which accused WAEC management of making unilateral decisions, breaching seniority principles, and taking punitive administrative actions against staff.

In a letter dated May 5 and signed by NASU General Secretary Peters Adeyemi, the union outlined several grievances and issued a seven-day ultimatum for resolution before the planned protest. The issues raised included the suspension of staff upgrade programs, the alleged imposition of a minimum net pay policy, the formation of investigative panels without consultation, recruitment concerns, and changes to the WASSCE examination structure.

NASU stated that its members unanimously agreed to proceed with the protest once the ultimatum expired, following an online meeting of branches nationwide. However, the strike was suspended last Friday after the Council promised to investigate the issues raised by the aggrieved members. NASU warned that agitations could continue if their primary demand— the removal of WAEC Nigeria Head, Dr Drangut— is not met.

Meanwhile, on Wednesday, in a signed release, the Acting Head of Public Affairs at WAEC, Moyosola F. Adesina, reaffirmed the support of the Administrative and Finance Committee for Dr Dangut by passing a vote of confidence on his administration.

The release stated: “The Committee, which is the Council’s highest advisory body on administrative and financial matters in Nigeria, commended Dr Dangut and his management team for their exemplary leadership, operational efficiency, and institutional discipline, particularly in maintaining the smooth and uninterrupted conduct of the ongoing WASSCE for school candidates in 2026, despite recent union-related concerns.

“Following a comprehensive review of the Nigeria National Office’s operations, the Committee noted that the management’s handling of administrative responsibilities and staff engagement demonstrates professionalism, strategic focus, and a strong commitment to WAEC’s core values.

“In passing a formal vote of confidence on Dr Dangut and his team, the Committee reaffirmed its support for the management and expressed confidence in its capacity to continue fulfilling the Council’s mandate effectively. It also cautioned against any actions that could undermine WAEC’s institutional reputation and integrity.

“The Committee further reassured candidates, parents, ministries of education, and other stakeholders that the Council’s operations nationwide remain stable, seamless, and fully on course, while reaffirming its commitment to transparency, staff welfare, and a peaceful working environment.”