WAEC Past Questions

WAEC Civic Education 2017
Questions & Answers

40 questions · Correct answers highlighted · 40 with explanations

40 Total Questions
2017 Exam Year
40 With Explanations
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1
Question 1 of 40
WAEC · Civic Education · 2017

The main duty of the Standards Organisation of Nigeria (SON) is to

A. enforce tax laws
B. ensure product standards
C. regulate elections
D. appoint public officers
Explanation

The Standards Organisation of Nigeria (SON) is responsible for standardizing and regulating the quality of all products and services in Nigeria to ensure they meet safety and quality benchmarks, preventing substandard goods from entering the market.

2
Question 2 of 40
WAEC · Civic Education · 2017

One disadvantage of a multi-party system is

A. diverse opinions
B. political instability
C. strong leadership
D. limited competition
Explanation

A multi-party system allows various political parties to compete for power, which can lead to frequent changes in government, coalition breakdowns, and policy inconsistencies, resulting in political instability.

3
Question 3 of 40
WAEC · Civic Education · 2017

The principle of gender equality promotes

A. discrimination
B. equal opportunities
C. male dominance
D. female exclusion
Explanation

Gender equality ensures that individuals, regardless of gender, have equal access to education, employment, and decision-making processes, fostering a just and inclusive society.

4
Question 4 of 40
WAEC · Civic Education · 2017

One way to promote economic development is

A. encouraging corruption
B. investing in infrastructure
C. ignoring education
D. promoting unemployment
Explanation

Investing in infrastructure such as roads, electricity, and ports improves connectivity, boosts trade, attracts investments, and creates jobs, which are essential drivers of economic growth.

5
Question 5 of 40
WAEC · Civic Education · 2017

The primary function of the Senate is to

A. enforce laws
B. make laws
C. interpret laws
D. appoint the president
Explanation

As part of the legislative arm of government in Nigeria's bicameral system, the Senate, along with the House of Representatives, is responsible for debating, amending, and passing bills into laws.

6
Question 6 of 40
WAEC · Civic Education · 2017

A major effect of unemployment is

A. economic growth
B. social unrest
C. improved health
D. increased productivity
Explanation

Unemployment leads to poverty, frustration, and inequality, which can spark protests, crime, and social conflicts as individuals struggle to meet basic needs.

7
Question 7 of 40
WAEC · Civic Education · 2017

One benefit of the freedom of the press is

A. government control
B. public accountability
C. censorship
D. limited information
Explanation

Freedom of the press allows media outlets to investigate and report on government actions, holding public officials accountable and promoting transparency in governance.

8
Question 8 of 40
WAEC · Civic Education · 2017

The main role of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) is to

A. make laws
B. regulate legal practice
C. enforce judicial decisions
D. appoint judges
Explanation

The NBA is a professional body that sets standards for legal education, ethics, and practice, ensuring that lawyers adhere to professional conduct and discipline errant members.

9
Question 9 of 40
WAEC · Civic Education · 2017

One way to prevent malaria is

A. sleeping without nets
B. using insecticide-treated nets
C. ignoring sanitation
D. encouraging mosquito breeding
Explanation

Insecticide-treated nets provide a physical and chemical barrier against mosquitoes, the primary vectors of malaria, significantly reducing transmission rates especially in endemic areas.

10
Question 10 of 40
WAEC · Civic Education · 2017

The right to equality before the law ensures

A. favoritism
B. impartial justice
C. biased rulings
D. secret trials
Explanation

This fundamental right, enshrined in constitutions, guarantees that all individuals are treated equally by the justice system without discrimination based on status, wealth, or power.

11
Question 11 of 40
WAEC · Civic Education · 2017

A major challenge of rural development is

A. adequate funding
B. lack of infrastructure
C. strong leadership
D. effective policies
Explanation

Rural areas often suffer from poor roads, unreliable electricity, and limited access to water and healthcare, hindering economic activities and service delivery.

12
Question 12 of 40
WAEC · Civic Education · 2017

One importance of the Nigerian flag is

A. promoting division
B. symbolizing national unity
C. encouraging violence
D. limiting freedom
Explanation

The Nigerian flag, with its green-white-green colors representing agriculture, peace, and unity, serves as a national symbol that fosters patriotism and collective identity among citizens.

13
Question 13 of 40
WAEC · Civic Education · 2017

The primary duty of the Federal Fire Service is to

A. enforce laws
B. prevent and fight fires
C. regulate elections
D. appoint public officers
Explanation

The Federal Fire Service is tasked with responding to fire emergencies, conducting fire safety education, and implementing measures to minimize fire risks across the country.

14
Question 14 of 40
WAEC · Civic Education · 2017

One way to promote cultural heritage is

A. destroying historical sites
B. preserving traditions
C. ignoring festivals
D. encouraging foreign influence
Explanation

Preserving traditions through documentation, education, and community involvement maintains cultural identity, boosts tourism, and ensures intergenerational transmission of values and practices.

15
Question 15 of 40
WAEC · Civic Education · 2017

The main objective of the Child Rights Act is to

A. promote child labor
B. protect children’s rights
C. limit education
D. encourage abuse
Explanation

The Child Rights Act, domesticated from the UN Convention, safeguards children from exploitation, abuse, and neglect, ensuring their right to survival, development, and participation.

16
Question 16 of 40
WAEC · Civic Education · 2017

A major cause of gender inequality is

A. equal opportunities
B. cultural stereotypes
C. strong education
D. effective laws
Explanation

Cultural stereotypes perpetuate roles that limit women's access to resources and opportunities, reinforcing biases in education, employment, and leadership positions.

17
Question 17 of 40
WAEC · Civic Education · 2017

One benefit of political participation is

A. weak governance
B. stronger democracy
C. social conflict
D. economic decline
Explanation

Active involvement in voting, advocacy, and civic duties empowers citizens, enhances representation, and ensures policies reflect public needs, strengthening democratic institutions.

18
Question 18 of 40
WAEC · Civic Education · 2017

The primary role of the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS) is to

A. enforce laws
B. provide healthcare coverage
C. regulate elections
D. appoint doctors
Explanation

NHIS aims to achieve universal health coverage by providing affordable and accessible healthcare to Nigerians, reducing out-of-pocket expenses and improving health outcomes.

19
Question 19 of 40
WAEC · Civic Education · 2017

One way to promote road safety is

A. ignoring traffic lights
B. wearing seat belts
C. speeding on roads
D. avoiding driver training
Explanation

Wearing seat belts significantly reduces the risk of injury or death in accidents by securing occupants and minimizing impact forces during collisions.

20
Question 20 of 40
WAEC · Civic Education · 2017

The right to freedom of thought is limited by

A. personal belief
B. public order
C. economic status
D. educational level
Explanation

While freedom of thought is fundamental, it can be restricted if it incites violence, hatred, or disrupts public order, as per constitutional provisions balancing individual rights with societal harmony.

21
Question 21 of 40
WAEC · Civic Education · 2017

A major factor promoting human trafficking is

A. strong law enforcement
B. poverty and ignorance
C. effective education
D. public awareness
Explanation

Poverty drives vulnerable individuals into exploitative situations, while ignorance about risks and rights makes them easy targets for traffickers promising better opportunities.

22
Question 22 of 40
WAEC · Civic Education · 2017

One importance of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) is

A. promoting tribalism
B. fostering national unity
C. encouraging unemployment
D. limiting opportunities
Explanation

NYSC rotates graduates across states to promote cultural integration, reduce ethnic biases, and build a sense of national belonging among Nigerian youth.

23
Question 23 of 40
WAEC · Civic Education · 2017

The main function of the Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC) is to

A. enforce road safety
B. manage rail transport
C. regulate air travel
D. appoint train drivers
Explanation

NRC operates and maintains Nigeria's railway network, facilitating efficient, affordable mass transportation of passengers and goods across the country.

24
Question 24 of 40
WAEC · Civic Education · 2017

One way to combat domestic violence is

A. encouraging silence
B. providing support services
C. promoting abuse
D. ignoring reports
Explanation

Support services like counseling, shelters, and legal aid empower victims, break the cycle of abuse, and provide resources for recovery and prevention.

25
Question 25 of 40
WAEC · Civic Education · 2017

The primary role of the National Boundary Commission (NBC) is to

A. enforce tax laws
B. demarcate national boundaries
C. regulate elections
D. appoint public officers
Explanation

NBC is responsible for defining, surveying, and maintaining Nigeria's international and internal boundaries to prevent disputes and ensure territorial integrity.

26
Question 26 of 40
WAEC · Civic Education · 2017

A major effect of population growth is

A. economic stability
B. pressure on resources
C. improved infrastructure
D. increased employment
Explanation

Rapid population growth strains limited resources like food, water, housing, and healthcare, leading to scarcity, environmental degradation, and urban overcrowding.

27
Question 27 of 40
WAEC · Civic Education · 2017

One benefit of a unitary system is

A. regional autonomy
B. centralized administration
C. diverse representation
D. weak leadership
Explanation

In a unitary system, power is concentrated at the center, allowing for uniform policies, efficient decision-making, and easier coordination of national resources and efforts.

28
Question 28 of 40
WAEC · Civic Education · 2017

The main duty of the National Agricultural Extension and Research Liaison Services (NAERLS) is to

A. enforce laws
B. promote agricultural development
C. regulate elections
D. appoint farmers
Explanation

NAERLS disseminates research findings, provides training, and advisory services to farmers to improve productivity, adopt modern techniques, and enhance food security.

29
Question 29 of 40
WAEC · Civic Education · 2017

One way to promote mental health is

A. ignoring stress
B. seeking professional help
C. encouraging isolation
D. avoiding exercise
Explanation

Professional help from therapists or counselors offers coping strategies, diagnoses issues early, and provides tailored interventions to manage mental health challenges effectively.

30
Question 30 of 40
WAEC · Civic Education · 2017

The right to work is guaranteed under

A. economic rights
B. political rights
C. civil rights
D. social rights
Explanation

Economic rights include the right to work, fair wages, and safe conditions, as outlined in international covenants like the ICESCR, ensuring individuals' economic security and participation.

31
Question 31 of 40
WAEC · Civic Education · 2017

A major challenge of industrialization is

A. improved infrastructure
B. environmental pollution
C. strong economy
D. effective governance
Explanation

Industrial activities release pollutants into air, water, and soil, causing health issues, ecosystem damage, and climate change if not managed with sustainable practices.

32
Question 32 of 40
WAEC · Civic Education · 2017

One importance of the Nigerian Coat of Arms is

A. promoting division
B. symbolizing national identity
C. encouraging violence
D. limiting freedom
Explanation

The Coat of Arms, featuring eagles, horses, and yams, represents Nigeria's strength, agriculture, and unity, serving as an official emblem on documents and institutions.

33
Question 33 of 40
WAEC · Civic Education · 2017

The primary function of the Consumer Protection Council (CPC) is to

A. enforce tax laws
B. protect consumer rights
C. regulate elections
D. appoint public officers
Explanation

CPC safeguards consumers from unfair trade practices, defective products, and false advertising by investigating complaints and enforcing standards for quality and safety.

34
Question 34 of 40
WAEC · Civic Education · 2017

One way to prevent cybercrime is

A. ignoring security protocols
B. using strong passwords
C. encouraging hacking
D. sharing personal data
Explanation

Strong, unique passwords combined with multi-factor authentication make it harder for cybercriminals to gain unauthorized access to accounts and sensitive information.

35
Question 35 of 40
WAEC · Civic Education · 2017

The main objective of the Vision 20:2020 plan was to

A. promote poverty
B. make Nigeria a global economic power
C. limit education
D. encourage war
Explanation

Launched in 2010, Vision 20:2020 aimed to position Nigeria among the top 20 largest economies by 2020 through diversification, infrastructure development, and human capital investment.

36
Question 36 of 40
WAEC · Civic Education · 2017

A major cause of water scarcity is

A. effective water management
B. pollution and deforestation
C. conservation efforts
D. recycling programs
Explanation

Pollution contaminates water sources, while deforestation reduces rainfall and increases soil erosion, diminishing groundwater recharge and available clean water supplies.

37
Question 37 of 40
WAEC · Civic Education · 2017

One benefit of civic awareness is

A. social conflict
B. informed decision-making
C. economic rivalry
D. political instability
Explanation

Civic awareness equips citizens with knowledge of rights, duties, and processes, enabling them to make rational choices in elections and advocate effectively for community needs.

38
Question 38 of 40
WAEC · Civic Education · 2017

The primary role of the National Examination Council (NECO) is to

A. enforce laws
B. conduct national examinations
C. regulate elections
D. appoint teachers
Explanation

NECO administers senior secondary certificate exams and other assessments, ensuring standardized evaluation of students' knowledge and skills for certification.

39
Question 39 of 40
WAEC · Civic Education · 2017

One way to promote ethical behavior is

A. encouraging dishonesty
B. teaching moral values
C. ignoring societal norms
D. promoting greed
Explanation

Teaching moral values through education and role modeling instills principles of integrity, empathy, and responsibility, guiding individuals toward ethical decision-making.

40
Question 40 of 40
WAEC · Civic Education · 2017

The main duty of the Nigerian Copyright Commission (NCC) is to

A. enforce road safety
B. protect intellectual property
C. appoint public officers
D. maintain law and order
Explanation

NCC administers copyright laws, registers works, combats piracy, and educates creators on protecting their literary, artistic, and musical creations from unauthorized use.

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