The West African Examinations Council (WAEC) has announced the appointment of Mr Suleiman Danlami Kum as the new Head of its Nigeria National Office. Kum brings nearly three decades of experience within WAEC to the position, having joined the council in July 1998 as an Assistant Registrar II. His extensive background in examination administration, test development, and educational management makes him a suitable candidate for the role. Kum's appointment marks a new phase in his career, which has been spent primarily within the regional examination body.
Kum's academic and professional background is impressive. Born on October 16, 1970, in Minna, Niger State, Kum hails from Langtang North Local Government Area of Plateau State. He obtained a Bachelor of Agriculture in Animal Production from the University of Agriculture, Makurdi, in 1992. Later, he earned a Postgraduate Diploma in Education from the National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN) in 2025. Currently, he is completing a Master of Education in Educational Administration and Planning at NOUN.
Kum's career at WAEC has been marked by various roles and responsibilities. He began as Assistant Registrar II in July 1998 and has since accumulated extensive experience in examination-related activities. His professional background includes test development and administration, areas that have placed him at the centre of designing, administering, and managing examinations. Before joining WAEC, Kum undertook his National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) programme at the Division of Agricultural Colleges, Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria.
Kum's experience in both classroom teaching and examination administration has given him exposure to different aspects of the education sector. He taught and served in various capacities at Baptist High School, Jos, between 1995 and 1998. His diverse experience has equipped him with the skills necessary to lead WAEC's Nigeria National Office effectively. Kum now assumes leadership at a time when WAEC continues to play a central role in the conduct and administration of major secondary school examinations in Nigeria.
Kum's appointment comes at a critical time for WAEC, as the council continues to face challenges in the education sector. The council has been working to improve its examination processes and ensure the credibility of its results. With Kum at the helm, WAEC is expected to build on its successes and address emerging challenges. Kum's leadership will be crucial in shaping the future of WAEC's operations in Nigeria.
Kum succeeds Dr Amos Josiah Dangut, who served as Head of the Nigeria National Office before the latest leadership transition. Dangut's tenure was marked by efforts to improve WAEC's examination processes and strengthen its presence in Nigeria. Kum will be expected to build on Dangut's achievements and drive WAEC's mission forward. The transition is expected to be smooth, with Kum already familiar with WAEC's operations.
As Kum takes on his new role, WAEC stakeholders will be watching closely. His experience and expertise will be essential in navigating the challenges facing the education sector. With a career spanning nearly three decades, Kum is well-positioned to lead WAEC's Nigeria National Office into a new era of growth and development. His appointment has been well-received by the education community, with many expecting positive changes under his leadership.
Key points
- Suleiman Danlami Kum has nearly three decades of experience within WAEC.
- Kum's academic background includes a Bachelor of Agriculture and a Postgraduate Diploma in Education.
- Kum succeeds Dr Amos Josiah Dangut as Head of WAEC's Nigeria National Office.
