The resolution followed the adoption of a motion of urgent public importance raised during Thursday’s plenary by Oboku Oforji, the lawmaker representing Yenagoa/Opokuma Federal Constituency of Bayelsa State.
While acknowledging that periodic curriculum reviews are necessary, Oforji argued that the subjects in question remain critical components of modern education systems worldwide. According to him, removing them abruptly — especially months before the 2026 WASSCE — is both poorly timed and harmful to students who have been preparing for the exams since Senior Secondary School 1.
Oforji emphasized that trade subjects such as Data Processing have become some of the most widely offered courses due to their relevance to today’s job market. He noted that Computer Studies, in particular, is nearly universally taught and essential for digital literacy.
“Computer Studies is fundamental at a time when the world is going digital. Its sudden removal is counterproductive,” he said.
The lawmaker also expressed concerns over the treatment of Civic Education. Previously compulsory, it has now been downsized, with students required to study it for only two years. He questioned why a nation striving to strengthen civic responsibility would remove a subject aligned with the mission of institutions like the National Orientation Agency.
Oforji further described the removal of Computer Science as “insensitive,” especially given the rising adoption of computer-based testing across examination bodies. He warned that students who have spent years studying these subjects are now left stranded.
“The House is worried that the removal of three or more foundational subjects from the mandatory eight subjects limits students and violates the minimum requirement,” he said. “Students currently face distress and confusion, with the WASSCE barely four months away. Introducing new subjects at this stage is academically unrealistic.”
Following his submission, Deputy Speaker Benjamin Kalu put the motion to a voice vote, and it was unanimously endorsed.
The House subsequently urged the Ministry of Education to immediately halt the implementation of the directive and ensure that SS3 students are allowed to sit for the subjects they have been studying since SS1. Lawmakers also resolved to establish an ad hoc committee to investigate the issue and monitor compliance.
Background to the Controversy
On September 3, 2025, the Federal Government announced a comprehensive overhaul of the national curriculum for primary and secondary schools. Under the new framework, subjects such as Civic Education, Nigerian History, and Social Studies were consolidated into a new discipline titled Citizenship and Heritage Studies at the senior secondary level.
The reform also reduced the number of examinable subjects and streamlined vocational options for schools without technical accreditation. However, the transition created widespread confusion among students, teachers, and parents, particularly regarding which subjects would remain available on the 2026 WAEC registration portal.
Reports began circulating that Civic Education and several trade subjects had been removed or renamed, leaving thousands of students uncertain about their examination choices.
With the WASSCE approaching, the House argued that clarity and stability are essential — and that students should not bear the burden of abrupt curriculum changes.