The Federal Government has halted its planned increase in WAEC and NECO examination fees. The decision follows public concerns and shifts attention to fresh consultations before any final action.
ABUJA, FCT — The Federal Government has suspended the proposed review of registration fees for the 2027 West African Senior School Certificate Examination, WAEC, and the National Examinations Council, NECO, examinations. The Federal Ministry of Education announced the decision on Monday, saying it had withdrawn the earlier letter approving the fee adjustment after receiving feedback from Nigerians and other stakeholders.
Why This Happened
According to a statement issued by the Federal Ministry of Education, the letter dated June 18, 2026, which communicated the proposed fee adjustment, has been withdrawn to allow for wider consultations before any final decision is made. The ministry said the move reflects the government’s commitment to responsible policymaking and ensuring that policies affecting millions of students receive broad stakeholder input.
The ministry added that it would engage examination bodies, state ministries of education, school owners, parents’ associations, organised labour and other education stakeholders during the review process. The proposed fee increase will not take effect until the consultations are completed.
What They Said
The ministry said the withdrawal followed concerns raised by members of the public over the planned increase. It added that students’ welfare, equal access to quality education and responsible decision-making remain central to the Federal Government’s education agenda. The ministry also assured Nigerians that updates would be provided throughout the consultation process.
Who Is Dr Maruf Tunji Alausa?
Dr Maruf Tunji Alausa is Nigeria’s Minister of Education. He oversees policies affecting basic, secondary and tertiary education across the country, including national examinations conducted by WAEC and NECO. His ministry is responsible for coordinating education reforms and working with key stakeholders on major policy decisions.
What This Means for Nigeria
The development means the proposed increase in WAEC and NECO registration fees has been placed on hold while consultations continue. Students, parents, schools and state governments will retain the current fee structure until the Federal Government reaches a final decision after engaging relevant stakeholders. The outcome of the consultations could shape examination costs for the 2027 academic cycle.
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