The Federal Government has suspended plans to increase registration fees for the 2027 West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE) and the National Examinations Council (NECO) Senior School Certificate Examination (SSCE), following growing public concern.
The decision was announced in a statement by the Director of Press and Public Relations at the Federal Ministry of Education, Dr Folashade Boriowo.
According to the ministry, the letter proposing the fee increase, dated 18 June 2026, has been withdrawn to allow for wider consultations with parents, education stakeholders and the general public before any final decision is taken.
The ministry said it appreciates the feedback received from Nigerians and recognises the importance of making quality education accessible to every child.
It explained that the proposed increase was driven by rising costs involved in conducting credible national examinations. These include expenses for logistics, security, printing examination materials, technology, quality assurance and other essential services needed to maintain the integrity of the examinations.
Officials noted that registration fees have remained largely unchanged for several years despite the steady increase in operational costs.
Minister of Education, Dr Maruf Tunji Alausa, has now directed that the proposal be put on hold, saying the government remains committed to transparent, inclusive and evidence-based decision-making.
The pause means parents and students preparing for future examinations can breathe a little easier while consultations continue.
