Nigeria suspends planned hike in WAEC, NECO exam registration fees amid backlash

Nigeria's Federal Government has announced the suspension of a controversial plan to increase registration fees for the West African Senior School Certificate Examinations (WASSCE) and the National Examinations Council (NECO) Senior School Certificate Examinations. The decision follows significant public outcry and condemnation from various stakeholders, including former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and the National Parents Teachers Association of Nigeria (NAPTAN).

The proposed fee hike would have seen WAEC registration fees rise from N27,000 to N50,000, and NECO fees increase from N30,000 to the same N50,000. The government had initially justified the increase by citing economic realities and the escalating costs associated with conducting credible national examinations, noting that fees had remained largely unchanged for years despite rising operational expenses.

However, the Ministry of Education, in a statement released by its Director of Press and Public Relations, Boriowo Folasade, acknowledged the public's concerns and constructive feedback. The ministry stated that the proposed adjustment is being suspended pending a comprehensive review of the policy. This decision aligns with the federal government's commitment to inclusive, transparent, and evidence-based policymaking.

Minister of Education, Dr. Maruf Tunji Alausa, directed the suspension, emphasizing the need for broad consultation before implementing policies that affect millions of students and their families. The ministry plans to engage extensively with examination bodies, state ministries of education, school proprietors, parents' associations, organized labor, and other critical partners. This consultative process aims to ensure that any future decisions on examination fees are fair, sustainable, transparent, and responsive to economic realities while safeguarding access to education.