The West African Examinations Council (WAEC) has announced the release of the first batch of results for the 2026 Computer-Based West African Senior School Certificate Examination (CB-WASSCE) for private candidates.

According to the council, 10,480 candidates sat for the examination conducted between January 28 and February 14, 2026. Of this number, 3,429 candidates, representing 32.72 per cent, obtained credit passes in at least five subjects, including English Language and Mathematics.

WAEC further disclosed that 4,598 candidates, representing 43.87 per cent, secured credits in a minimum of five subjects, with or without English and Mathematics. The council noted an increase in participation compared to 2025, with 10,523 candidates registering for the examination—an 11.49 per cent rise from the previous year.

The examination was held at 166 centres nationwide, with 608 examiners marking scripts across Lagos, Enugu, and Kaduna between February 26 and March 13. Among the candidates were 43 persons with special needs, including visually impaired, hearing impaired, and albino participants.

In terms of gender distribution, 5,106 candidates (48.72 per cent) were male, while 5,374 (51.28 per cent) were female. WAEC confirmed that 8,418 candidates have had their results fully processed and released, while 2,062 candidates still have some subjects pending due to errors traceable to them.

The council also disclosed that the results of 75 candidates have been withheld over alleged examination malpractice. It added that investigations are ongoing and that decisions will be communicated to affected candidates after review by the appropriate committee.