The Federal Government has put on hold 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 reactions.
The Federal Ministry of Education announced the decision in a statement released on Monday, explaining that it had withdrawn its earlier communication dated June 18, 2026, which proposed a review of examination registration fees. The suspension is intended to allow for broader consultations with key stakeholders before any final decision is made.
In the statement signed by the ministry’s Director of Press and Public Relations, Boriowo Folasade, the government acknowledged the concerns and feedback expressed by Nigerians regarding the planned adjustment.
According to the ministry, the proposed increase was informed by the rising cost of conducting credible national examinations. It noted that examination registration fees have remained largely unchanged for several years despite significant increases in operational expenses.
The ministry explained that costs associated with logistics, security, printing examination materials, deploying technology, quality assurance and other essential services have continued to rise, making a review necessary to sustain the integrity of public examinations.
However, Minister of Education, Dr. Maruf Tunji Alausa, directed that the proposal be suspended in line with the Federal Government’s commitment to transparent, inclusive and evidence-based decision-making.
The ministry said policies affecting millions of students, parents and schools should undergo extensive consultation before implementation to ensure that all concerns are adequately considered.
As part of the review process, the Federal Ministry of Education said it will engage with major stakeholders, including examination bodies, state ministries of education, school owners and administrators, parents’ associations, organised labour and other education sector partners.
It stated that the consultations are aimed at ensuring that any future decision on WASSCE and NECO registration fees is fair, financially sustainable and reflects the country’s current economic realities without limiting students’ access to education.
The ministry further clarified that the proposed fee adjustment will not take effect until the consultation process is completed and the government reaches a final decision.
Reaffirming its commitment to improving the education sector, the ministry said the welfare of students, equal 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, schools and other stakeholders for their patience, understanding and continued support, assuring Nigerians that updates will be provided as the consultation process progresses.
