FG Suspends Planned WAEC and NECO Fee Increase After Public Outcry

(NECO. Photo by Ripples Nigeria)

The Federal Government has put on hold its proposed increase in registration fees for the 2027 West African Senior School Certificate Examination and the National Examinations Council Senior School Certificate Examination, following widespread public opposition.

The Federal Ministry of Education announced on Monday that it had withdrawn its June 18, 2026 circular introducing the planned fee adjustment, pending a comprehensive review and consultations with key stakeholders.

In a statement signed by the ministry’s Director of Press and Public Relations, Boriowo Folasade, the government said the decision was taken after carefully considering the concerns and feedback expressed by Nigerians over the proposed increase.

According to the ministry, the planned review was prompted by rising costs associated with conducting credible national examinations, noting that registration fees had remained largely unchanged for several years despite increasing expenses related to logistics, security, printing of examination materials, technology deployment, quality assurance and other essential services required to maintain the integrity of public examinations.

However, the Minister of Education, Dr Maruf Tunji Alausa, directed that the proposal be suspended, reaffirming the Federal Government’s commitment to inclusive, transparent and evidence-based policymaking.

The ministry said the decision underscores government’s resolve to ensure that policies affecting millions of students and their families undergo broad consultations before implementation.

As part of the review process, the ministry said it would engage examination bodies, state ministries of education, school proprietors, administrators, parents’ associations, organised labour, education stakeholders and other relevant partners, explaining that the consultations are aimed at ensuring any future decision on examination fees is fair, transparent, financially sustainable and reflective of current economic realities, while safeguarding access to education for all students.

The ministry emphasised that no increase in WAEC or NECO registration fees will take effect until the consultation process is completed and a final decision is reached.

Reiterating the administration’s commitment to the education sector, the ministry said the welfare of students, 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, understanding and continued support, assuring the public that updates would be provided as the consultation process progresses.