Breaking: FG Suspends Proposed WAEC, NECO Registration Fee Hike

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 decision was announced in a statement issued on Sunday by the Federal Ministry of Education through its Director of Press and Public Relations, Folasade Boriowo.

According to the ministry, the letter conveying the proposed fee adjustment, dated June 18, 2026, has been withdrawn to allow for a comprehensive review and broader consultations before a final decision is taken.

The ministry said the suspension followed concerns and constructive feedback from Nigerians over the planned increase, noting that the government remained committed to ensuring access to quality education.

It explained that the proposed review was informed by prevailing economic realities and the rising cost of conducting credible public examinations, including increased expenses on 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 placed on hold in line with the Federal Government’s commitment to inclusive, transparent and evidence-based policymaking.

The ministry said it would engage extensively with examination bodies, state ministries of education, school proprietors and administrators, parents’ associations, organised labour and other education stakeholders as part of the fresh review process.

It added that the proposed increase in examination registration fees would not take effect until the consultation process is concluded.

Reassuring Nigerians, the ministry stated that the welfare of students, equitable access to quality education and responsible policymaking remain central to the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for the education sector.

The ministry also appreciated the understanding and continued support of stakeholders, pledging to keep the public informed throughout the consultation process.