By Sandra Kenneth
The West African Examinations Council (WAEC) has officially announced the appointment of 56-year-old Suleiman Kum as the new Head of the Nigeria National Office (HNO).
Kum takes over from Dr. Amos Dangut, whose three-year tenure ended on October 1, 2026, following Dangut’s assumption of office as the Council’s Registrar and Chief Executive Officer.
In an official statement released on Sunday by the Head of Public Affairs, WAEC Nigeria, Moyosola Adesina, the Council described Kum as a seasoned test developer, administrator, and executive.
A History of Technological and Administrative Innovation
Kum joined WAEC on July 17, 1998, as an Assistant Registrar II. Over his 28-year career with the examination body, he has pioneered several technological advancements and administrative reforms. Notably, he led the introduction of Variable Data Printing and enhanced security features in examination printing, replaced attendance systems with facial-recognition biometric technology, and spearheaded the delivery of Achievement Tests using Computer-Based Examination (CBE) modes.
His operational record includes key roles across various regions and departments. He has served as Head of Examination Security in Awka, Yola, and Makurdi, as well as Branch Controller in Gusau—where he established the local office as a Custodial Centre—and Kano. He has also served as Deputy Registrar for Security Printing, Zonal Coordinator for both Port Harcourt and Ikeja, Director of Administration, and most recently, Senior Deputy Registrar for Test Administration.
Educational Background and Career Outlook
An indigene of Plateau State, Kum holds a Postgraduate Diploma in Education from the National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN) and is currently pursuing a Master of Education in Educational Administration and Planning at the same institution.
WAEC noted that Kum’s leadership across diverse portfolios has earned him institutional commendations and awards within and outside the organisation, pointing to his track record of integrity, innovation, and service as he steps into his new role.
