The Federal Government has suspended the proposed upward review of registration fees for the West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE) and the National Examinations Council (NECO) Senior School Certificate Examination (SSCE), pending comprehensive consultations with key stakeholders.
This was disclosed in a press release issued on July 13, 2026, by the Federal Ministry of Education through its Director of Press and Public Relations, Mrs. Boriowo Folasade.
According to the Ministry, the letter conveying the proposed fee adjustment, dated June 18, 2026, has been formally withdrawn to allow for a fresh review process and wider consultations before any final decision is taken.
The Ministry explained that the proposed review was informed by the increasing cost of conducting credible public examinations, including expenses related to logistics, security, printing of examination materials, technology deployment, quality assurance, and other operational requirements.
However, the Honourable Minister of Education, Dr. Maruf Tunji Alausa, directed that the proposal be placed on hold in line with the Federal Government’s commitment to transparent, inclusive, and evidence-based policymaking.
As part of the review process, the Ministry said it will engage examination bodies, State Ministries of Education, school proprietors and administrators, parents’ associations, organised labour, education stakeholders, and other critical partners to ensure that any future decision is fair, sustainable, and responsive to prevailing economic realities while safeguarding access to education.
The Ministry also acknowledged the concerns and constructive feedback received from Nigerians regarding the proposed fee adjustment, stating that the welfare of students and equitable access to quality education remain top priorities of the Federal Government.
Consequently, the proposed increase in WAEC and NECO registration fees will not take effect until the consultation process is concluded and a final decision is reached.
The Ministry reaffirmed its commitment to keeping the public informed throughout the consultation process and expressed appreciation for the understanding, patience, and support of all stakeholders.