The Federal Government has suspended the proposed review of registration fees for the 2027 West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE) and the National Examinations Council (NECO) Senior School Certificate Examination (SSCE), pending wider consultations with stakeholders.
According to a statement signed by the Director of Press and Public Relations, Mrs. Folasade Boriowo, the letter conveying the proposed fee adjustment, dated June 18, 2026, had been withdrawn to allow for a comprehensive review and broader engagement before any final decision is taken.
The suspension, the Statement added, followed concerns and constructive feedback from members of the public, noting that it appreciates the keen interest shown by Nigerians in issues affecting access to quality education.
The ministry explained that the proposed fee review was driven by prevailing economic realities and the increasing cost of conducting credible national examinations.
It noted that examination registration fees have remained largely unchanged for several years despite rising operational expenses, including logistics, security, printing of examination materials, technology deployment, quality assurance and other essential services.
It stated, however, that the Minister of Education, Dr. Maruf Tunji Alausa, 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 said the decision reflects its determination to ensure that policies affecting millions of students and their families are carefully considered, socially responsive and in the overall national interest.
As part of the review process, the ministry said it would engage examination bodies, state ministries of education, school proprietors and administrators, parents’ associations, organised labour, education stakeholders and other critical partners before reaching a final decision.
It added that the proposed review of examination registration fees would not take effect as earlier communicated until the consultation process is concluded.
The ministry reaffirmed that the welfare of students, equitable access to quality education and responsible policymaking remain central to the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for the education sector.
It also thanked Nigerians for their understanding, patience and continued support, assuring the public that it would provide updates throughout the consultation process.
