FG Puts WAEC, NECO Registration Fee Increase on Hold After Public Outcry

The Federal Government has suspended its proposed increase in registration fees for the 2027 West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE) and the National Examinations Council (NECO) Senior School Certificate Examination (SSCE) following widespread public criticism.

The Federal Ministry of Education announced on Monday that it had withdrawn its June 18, 2026 circular notifying stakeholders of the planned fee adjustment. The proposal will now undergo a fresh review after extensive consultations with key stakeholders.

In a statement issued by the ministry’s Director of Press and Public Relations, Boriowo Folasade, the government said it took the decision after considering concerns and feedback from Nigerians over the planned increase.

According to the ministry, the proposed adjustment was necessitated by rising costs associated with conducting credible national examinations. It explained that examination fees had remained largely unchanged for several years despite increasing expenses linked to logistics, security, printing of examination materials, technology deployment, quality assurance and other operational requirements.

The ministry said policies affecting millions of students and their families must be subjected to broad consultations before implementation.

As part of the review process, the ministry will engage examination bodies, state ministries of education, school owners, parents’ associations, organised labour, education stakeholders and other relevant groups to gather their input.

It noted that the consultations are aimed at ensuring any future decision on examination fees is fair, sustainable, transparent and reflects current economic realities without limiting access to education.

The ministry also clarified that the proposed increase will not take effect until the consultation process is completed and a final decision is reached.

Reaffirming the government’s commitment to improving education, the ministry said student welfare, equitable access to quality education and responsible policymaking remain key priorities under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.

It also expressed appreciation to parents, students and other stakeholders for their patience and cooperation, assuring the public that updates would be provided as the consultation process progresses.

READ ALSO: