Federal Government Suspends Proposed Increase in WAEC, NECO Registration Fees

The Federal Government has suspended the 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).

The Federal Ministry of Education announced that it has withdrawn the letter conveying the proposed fee adjustment, dated 18 June 2026, to allow for a comprehensive review and wider consultations with relevant stakeholders before a final decision is made.

The Ministry said it acknowledges the concerns and constructive feedback received from the public and appreciates Nigerians' interest in issues relating to access to quality education.

According to the Ministry, the proposed fee review was necessitated by prevailing economic conditions and the increasing cost of conducting credible national examinations.

It explained that examination registration fees have remained largely unchanged for several years despite rising operational costs, including:

• Logistics
• Security
• Printing of examination materials
• Technology deployment
• Quality assurance
• Other essential services required to maintain the integrity and credibility of public examinations

The Honourable Minister of Education, Dr. Maruf Tunji Alausa, CON, 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 stated that the decision reflects its determination to ensure that policies affecting millions of Nigerian students and their families are carefully considered, socially responsive and aligned with the collective interest of the nation.

As part of the review process, the Ministry said it will engage extensively with:

• Examination bodies
• State Ministries of Education
• School proprietors and administrators
• Parents' associations
• Organised labour
• Education stakeholders
• Other critical partners

It noted that the consultations are aimed at ensuring that any future decision is fair, sustainable, transparent and responsive to prevailing realities while safeguarding access to education.

Consequently, the proposed increase in examination registration fees will not take effect as earlier communicated until the consultation process is concluded.

The Federal Ministry of Education reaffirmed that the welfare of students, equitable access to quality education and responsible policy decisions remain central to the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for the education sector.

The Ministry also thanked Nigerians for their understanding, patience and continued support, assuring the public that it will provide regular updates throughout the consultation process.