By Emmanuel Onyedika
The Federal Government has suspended the proposed 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).
The Federal Ministry of Education announced that the letter conveying the proposed fee adjustment, dated June 18, 2026, has been withdrawn to allow for a comprehensive review and broader consultations with stakeholders before a final decision is taken.
The Ministry acknowledged concerns and constructive feedback from the public, noting that the proposed review was informed by prevailing economic realities and rising costs of conducting credible national examinations. Current fees have remained largely unchanged for years despite increases in logistics, security, printing, technology deployment and quality assurance.
Minister of Education, Dr. Maruf Tunji Alausa, directed that the proposal be placed on hold in line with the government’s commitment to inclusive, transparent and evidence-based policymaking. The Ministry said the decision underscores its determination to ensure policies affecting millions of students and families are socially responsive and reflect the collective interest of the nation.
As part of the fresh review process, the Ministry will engage extensively with examination bodies, state ministries of education, school proprietors, parents’ associations, organised labour and other stakeholders to ensure any future decision is fair, sustainable and transparent while safeguarding access to education.
Accordingly, the proposed fee review will not take effect pending the conclusion of consultations. The Ministry reassured Nigerians that student welfare, equitable access to quality education and responsible policy decisions remain central to the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
It expressed appreciation for the understanding and support of stakeholders and pledged to keep the public fully informed throughout the consultation process.