FG suspends proposed increase in WAEC, NECO registration fees after public backlash
The federal government has suspended the proposed review of registration fees for the 2027 West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE) and the National Examinations Council (NECO) senior school certificate examination (SSCE), pending wider consultations with stakeholders.
The Federal Ministry of Education announced on Monday that it had withdrawn its June 18, 2026 letter conveying the proposed fee adjustment to allow for a comprehensive review before any final decision is taken.
In a statement signed by Boriowo Folasade, director of press and public relations, the ministry said the decision followed concerns and constructive feedback from the public.
“The ministry acknowledges the concerns and constructive feedback received from the public and appreciates the keen interest shown by Nigerians in matters relating to access to quality education,” the statement reads.
The ministry said the proposed increase was driven by prevailing economic realities and the rising cost of conducting credible national examinations.
It noted that examination registration fees have remained largely unchanged for several years despite increasing operational expenses, including logistics, security, printing of examination materials, technology deployment and quality assurance.
However, the Minister of Education, Dr. Maruf Tunji Alausa, directed that the proposal be suspended in line with the federal government’s commitment to inclusive, transparent and evidence-based policymaking.
According to the ministry, the decision reflects its determination to ensure that policies affecting millions of students and their families are carefully considered and are socially responsive.
It added that the ministry would engage examination bodies, state ministries of education, school proprietors, administrators, parents’ associations, organised labour and other education stakeholders before taking any decision on the fees.
The ministry said the proposed review would not take effect until the consultation process is concluded.
It also reassured Nigerians that the welfare of students, equitable access to quality education and responsible policymaking remain central to President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda for the education sector.
