In response to growing public concern, the Federal Government of Nigeria has suspended the planned increase in registration fees for the West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE) and the National Examinations Council Senior School Certificate Examination (NECO SSCE).
The suspension was made public through a statement from the Federal Ministry of Education, confirming the official withdrawal of a June 18, 2026 letter that initially authorized the fee adjustment. The planned increase would have seen registration costs jump by 82 percent, rising from N27,500 to N50,000 starting in 2027.
Why the Fee Hike Was Put on Hold
According to the statement signed by Folasade Boriowo, the ministry’s Director of Press and Public Relations, the decision to halt the implementation was directed by the Minister of Education, Dr. Maruf Tunji Alausa. The minister emphasized that the suspension aligns with the government’s commitment to transparent, inclusive, and evidence-based policymaking.
By withdrawing the proposal, the government aims to conduct a comprehensive review and carry out broader consultations with all key partners in the education sector before reaching a definitive conclusion.
Addressing Rising Operational Pressures
Explaining the initial motivation for the proposed adjustment, the ministry highlighted the escalating costs associated with organizing national examinations. It noted that registration fees have remained flat for several years, despite a steep rise in the operational expenses incurred by examination bodies.
Key areas driving up these costs include:
- Logistical and security arrangements across examination centers
- Printing and distribution of sensitive examination materials
- Technological deployments and digital infrastructure
- Quality assurance and overall administrative services
While these financial pressures persist, the ministry assured the public that no fee adjustment will take effect until stakeholders have been thoroughly engaged in discussions.
Next Steps and Stakeholder Consultations
The Federal Ministry of Education disclosed that the upcoming consultative process will be highly inclusive. It will involve a diverse group of partners, including:
- National examination bodies
- State ministries of education
- School proprietors and administrators
- Parents’ associations and organized labor unions
- Other key educational development partners
The government reiterated its commitment to prioritising student welfare, equitable access to quality education, and responsible policymaking, promising to keep the public updated as consultations progress.