The Federal Government has suspended the planned 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), following widespread concerns from Nigerians. The suspension was announced in a statement issued on Monday in Abuja by the Director of Press and Public Relations of the Federal Ministry of Education, Folasade Boriowo.
Boriowo explained that the ministry had withdrawn its June 18, 2026 letter communicating the proposed fee adjustment to allow for a broader review and consultations with relevant stakeholders before any final decision is reached.
She said the decision was prompted by reactions and constructive feedback from members of the public regarding the planned increase.
The move had attracted criticism from several Nigerians, including the presidential candidate of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Atiku Abubakar, who described the proposed hike as insensitive and unfair, especially amid the economic challenges facing many families.
The education ministry, however, said the proposed adjustment was initially considered due to the rising cost of conducting credible national examinations. According to Boriowo, expenses relating to logistics, security, printing of examination materials, technology deployment, quality assurance and other critical services had contributed to the need for a review.
She stated that the Minister of Education, Dr Tunji Alausa, had directed that the proposal be suspended as part of the government’s commitment to transparent, inclusive and evidence-based policymaking.
Boriowo added that the ministry would commence consultations with examination bodies, state ministries of education, school owners and administrators, parents’ associations, organised labour and other key stakeholders to ensure wider participation in the review process.
“The proposed review of examination registration fees will not take effect, as earlier communicated, pending the conclusion of the consultation process,” she said.
The ministry further assured Nigerians that the interests of students, access to quality education and responsible decision-making would remain central to the government’s education policies.
Boriowo also thanked Nigerians for their understanding and feedback, assuring them that updates would be provided as the consultation process progresses.