Dr Tunji Alausa
The Federal Government has suspended the proposed hike of registration fees for the 2027 West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE) and the National Examinations Council (NECO) Senior School Certificate Examination (SSCE).
The suspension was announced in a statement issued on Monday in Abuja by Folasade Boriowo, the Director of Press and Public Relations for the Federal Ministry of Education.
According to Boriowo, the ministry has officially withdrawn its June 18, 2026 letter that previously communicated the proposed fee adjustment.
The withdrawal aims to allow for a comprehensive review and wider consultations with relevant stakeholders before any final decision is made.
She noted that the suspension follows concerns and constructive feedback raised by members of the public regarding the proposed increase.
Key Factors Behind the Proposed Hike
While the adjustment is currently on hold, Boriowo explained that the initial proposal was necessitated by prevailing economic realities and the rising operational costs of conducting credible national examinations.
The ministry cited increasing expenses across several critical areas:
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Logistics and security
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Printing of examination materials
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Technology deployment
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Quality assurance and other essential services
Commitment to Dialogue and Inclusivity
The Minister of Education, Dr. Tunji Alausa, directed that the proposal be placed on hold to align with the federal government’s commitment to inclusive, transparent, and evidence-based policymaking.
Moving forward, the ministry plans to engage a broad spectrum of the education sector in a fresh review process. Stakeholders to be consulted include:
- Examination bodies and state ministries of education
- School proprietors and administrators
- Parents’ associations
- Organised labour and other education advocate.
”The proposed review of examination registration fees will not take effect, as earlier communicated, pending the conclusion of the consultation process,” Boriowo stated.
Reaffirming that student welfare, equitable access to quality education, and responsible governance remain central to the government’s agenda, Boriowo thanked Nigerians for their patience and assured the public that they will be kept informed throughout the consultation process.
