The Federal Government has suspended its proposed increase in examination fees for the 2027 West African Examinations Council (WAEC), National Examinations Council (NECO) and Senior School Certificate Examination (SSCE), following widespread public reactions and calls for broader stakeholder engagement.
The announcement was made on Monday by the Minister of Education, Dr. Maruf Tunji Alausa, who disclosed that the Ministry of Education had formally withdrawn its earlier proposal dated June 18, 2026, pending a comprehensive review of the policy.
According to the minister, the decision was taken to allow for wider consultations with key stakeholders, including parents, students, education administrators, examination bodies, teachers’ associations and other relevant groups, before any final decision is reached on the proposed fee adjustment.
The ministry explained that the initial proposal to review examination fees was influenced by prevailing economic realities, including rising inflation, increasing operational costs and the growing financial demands associated with conducting credible, secure and efficient national examinations across the country.
Despite these challenges, Dr. Alausa said the Federal Government recognised the concerns expressed by Nigerians regarding the possible impact of higher examination fees on families, particularly at a time when many households are facing economic hardship.
He noted that the suspension of the proposal demonstrates the government’s commitment to inclusive governance and evidence-based policymaking, stressing that policies with significant implications for millions of students should be developed through extensive consultation and public participation.
The minister assured Nigerians that the review process would carefully consider the views and recommendations of all stakeholders before any future decision is taken. He added that the objective remains to strike a balance between maintaining the quality and credibility of national examinations and ensuring that access to education remains affordable for every Nigerian child.
The Ministry of Education also reaffirmed its commitment to promoting students’ welfare, expanding equitable access to quality education and implementing policies that support sustainable improvements in the education sector in line with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
The ministry expressed appreciation to parents, students, teachers and other stakeholders for their patience, understanding and constructive feedback, assuring the public that they would continue to receive regular updates throughout the consultation and review process.
The suspension is expected to provide temporary relief to millions of candidates and their families while discussions continue on the most appropriate approach to funding the administration of national examinations without placing undue financial pressure on Nigerians.
