If you’re looking to get your General Certificate of Education (GCE) certificate in Lagos, you’re probably wondering about the easiest and most effective way to do so. For many Nigerians, this certificate represents a significant milestone in their educational journey, opening doors to higher education, jobs, and various opportunities. Whether you’re a first-time applicant or you need a replacement certificate, it’s important to know where and how to collect your certificate.
Fortunately, WAEC (West African Examinations Council) has streamlined the collection process, making it easier for you to access your certificate from various locations in Lagos. In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about collecting your WAEC GCE certificate in Lagos.
Where Can You Collect Your WAEC GCE Certificate in Lagos?
Lagos, being the economic hub of Nigeria, is home to multiple WAEC offices where candidates can collect their certificates. Depending on where you sat your examination, you can choose the most convenient office for you.
Here are the main offices you can visit to collect your WAEC GCE certificate in Lagos:
- WAEC Head Office, Yaba
Located at 21 Hussey Street, Yaba, this is the main office where most certificates are processed and available for collection. It’s the central hub for anyone who sat for the GCE exam in Lagos. - WAEC Ikeja Office
If you’re based on the mainland, you might find it easier to visit the Ikeja office located in Ogba, Ikeja. It serves a large part of the mainland, and it’s a convenient location for those living in areas like Ogba, Agege, and the surrounding parts of Lagos. - WAEC Ojo and Ikorodu Offices
For residents in the Ojo and Ikorodu areas, these branch offices can be your go-to places for certificate collection. They also handle requests from private candidates who sat for exams in these areas.
Each of these offices provides efficient services for collecting your WAEC GCE certificate, and they have clear instructions to help you through the process.
How to Collect Your WAEC GCE Certificate in Lagos: Step-by-Step

Getting your certificate doesn’t have to be a stressful experience. If you follow the right steps, it can be as easy as pie. Here’s how you can collect your WAEC GCE certificate in Lagos:
Step 1: Request Your Certificate Online
Before heading to the office, it’s advisable to initiate your certificate request online. WAEC has made this process convenient through their WAEC Certificate Request Portal.
- Go to the WAEC Certificate Request Portal: Start by visiting the official WAEC certificate portal at www.waec.ng.
- Submit your exam details: Fill out your examination number, the exam year, and the type of exam (e.g., GCE).
- Complete the online application: You will also need to provide your contact details, including a valid email address, where the certificate confirmation will be sent.
Step 2: Make Payment
Once you’ve submitted the required details, you will need to make an online payment for the certificate processing fee. WAEC has partnered with secure payment platforms, making it easy to pay via credit cards, debit cards, or internet banking. The fee usually ranges between ₦5,000 to ₦10,000, but it’s important to check the portal for any updated fees before making a payment.
Step 3: Certificate Collection at the Chosen Office
Once your payment is confirmed, your WAEC GCE certificate will be ready for collection. You can then visit any of the WAEC offices in Lagos to pick it up. Be sure to take the following documents with you:
- A valid form of identification: This could be your National ID, International Passport, or Driver’s License.
- A printout of your online result: This serves as proof of your exam performance and will help WAEC verify your request.
- Your WAEC photo card: This was issued to you when you registered for the exam.
- Proof of payment: If you didn’t pay online, make sure to bring a payment receipt from the bank or payment provider.
Step 4: Receive Your Certificate
After presenting the required documents, WAEC will process your request and hand over your certificate. Depending on how busy the office is, the processing time can vary, but generally, certificates are ready within 10 to 30 working days after payment confirmation.
Can I Collect My WAEC GCE Certificate by Proxy?
Yes, if you’re unable to visit the WAEC office in person, you can designate someone to collect the certificate on your behalf. This is called collection by proxy, and it is a convenient option for those who live far from Lagos or have other commitments.
If you choose to collect the certificate by proxy, ensure the person you assign brings the following:
- A sworn affidavit stating that they have permission to collect the certificate on your behalf.
- A valid form of ID (either the ID of the candidate or the proxy).
- Passport-sized photographs of the candidate for identification purposes.
- The payment receipt for the certificate fee.
- A copy of the result printout.
This is a great way to ensure you still get your certificate even if you can’t collect it in person.
What Documents Are Required for Collection of WAEC GCE Certificate in Lagos?
To collect your certificate, WAEC requires specific documents for verification. Here’s a quick checklist of the documents you’ll need:
- Valid Identification: This could be your National ID card, passport, or driver’s license. Make sure the ID is valid and not expired.
- Result Printout: The online printout of your WAEC result serves as proof of your academic performance.
- WAEC Photo Card: You would have received this photo card when you registered for the exam. It helps identify you in the system.
- Payment Receipt: If you paid offline, ensure you bring a receipt to confirm your payment.
- Passport Photo: A recent passport photo might also be required as part of the identification process.
Having all these documents in hand will help speed up the collection process and avoid any delays at the WAEC office.
How Much Does It Cost to Collect Your WAEC GCE Certificate in Lagos?
The certificate collection fee usually falls between ₦5,000 to ₦10,000, depending on various factors such as the year of the exam and the administrative changes WAEC might implement. Be sure to confirm the fee through the WAEC portal before visiting the office. The payment can be done online, so you don’t need to worry about carrying cash to the WAEC office.
Conclusion: Collecting Your WAEC GCE Certificate in Lagos Made Easy
Collecting your WAEC GCE certificate in Lagos is a straightforward process as long as you follow the necessary steps. Start by requesting your certificate online through the WAEC Certificate Request Portal, then make your payment and visit the designated office to collect your certificate.
For those who can’t pick it up in person, collection by proxy is also an option, making it even more convenient. With the right documents in hand and the online payment system in place, the process has never been easier.
Don’t forget to check the WAEC portal for the latest information on fees and required documents. Whether you’re a first-time applicant or a seasoned exam-taker, WAEC ensures that your certificate is within reach.
For more information, visit the official WAEC Certificate Request Portal and get started on your journey to obtaining your WAEC GCE certificate.
Quick Facts About WAEC GCE Certificate Collection in Lagos
Key Aspect | Details |
---|---|
WAEC Office Locations | Yaba Head Office, Ikeja, Ojo, Ikorodu |
Required Documents | Valid ID, Result Printout, Photo Card, Payment Receipt |
Certificate Fee | ₦5,000 to ₦10,000 |
Certificate Collection Time | 10 to 30 working days |
Payment Method | Online payment (credit card, USSD, internet banking) |
Collection by Proxy | Allowed with a sworn affidavit and valid ID |