The Federal Government has suspended the proposed increase in registration fees for the West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE) and the National Examinations Council (NECO) examination from 2027.
The decision followed public reactions to the proposed fee review. The Federal Ministry of Education said it will consult stakeholders before taking a final decision.
Ministry puts proposal on hold
In a statement issued on Monday, the ministry announced that it had withdrawn the June 18, 2026 letter proposing the new examination fee.
The ministry said the suspension would allow officials to conduct a broader review. It also said the process would involve consultations with key stakeholders.
According to the statement signed by the Director of Press and Public Relations, Folasade Boriowo, the government wants every major stakeholder to contribute before making a final decision.
“The Federal Ministry of Education announced that the letter conveying the proposed fee adjustment, dated 18 June 2026, has been withdrawn to allow for a comprehensive review and broader consultations with all relevant stakeholders before a final decision is taken.”
Government explains proposal
The ministry said rising costs prompted the proposed review of examination fees.
It explained that logistics, security, printing of examination materials, technology deployment and quality assurance now require more funding than before.
However, Minister of Education, Dr. Maruf Tunji Alausa, directed officials to suspend the proposal. He said consultations must come first.
“The Honourable Minister of Education, Dr. Maruf Tunji Alausa, CON, has directed that the proposal be placed on hold in line with the Federal Government’s commitment to inclusive, transparent and evidence-based policymaking.”
Stakeholders to join consultations
The ministry said it will engage examination bodies, state ministries of education, school owners, parents’ associations, organised labour and other education stakeholders.
Officials also clarified that the proposed fee review will not take effect until they conclude the consultation process.
The proposal sought to increase the uniform registration fee for WAEC and NECO candidates from ₦27,500 to ₦50,000. The new rate was expected to take effect in 2027.
Education stakeholders criticised the proposal. The National Association of Nigerian Students and former Vice President Atiku Abubakar also opposed the planned increase.
What happens next?
The Ministry of Education will begin consultations with stakeholders in the coming weeks.
After completing the consultations, the government will decide whether to approve, modify or withdraw the proposed examination fee review.
