The Federal Government has suspended its planned increase in registration fees for the 2027 WASSCE and NECO SSCE, bowing to public pressure and opting for broader consultation with stakeholders.
The Federal Ministry of Education said on Monday it had withdrawn its June 18, 2026 letter announcing the fee adjustment, pending a full review of the policy.
Director of Press and Public Relations, Boriowo Folasade, said the ministry took the decision after Nigerians reacted strongly to the proposed hike. She said the ministry had noted the public’s concerns and feedback.
The ministry had initially blamed the proposed increase on economic realities and the rising cost of conducting credible national examinations. Registration fees, it said, had stayed largely unchanged for years even as costs for logistics, security, printing, technology, and quality assurance kept climbing.
But Minister of Education, Dr Tunji Alausa, ordered the proposal suspended, citing the government’s commitment to inclusive, transparent, and evidence-based policymaking.
The ministry said it wants any decision affecting millions of students and their families to go through wide consultation before implementation.
“As part of the fresh review process, the Ministry will engage extensively with examination bodies, state ministries of education, school proprietors and administrators, parents’ associations, organised labour, education stakeholders and other critical partners,” the ministry said.
It added that the consultations will ensure any future fee decision stays fair, sustainable, transparent, and responsive to economic conditions, while protecting access to education. The proposed increase will not take effect until the process concludes and a final decision is made.
The ministry linked the move to President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda for education, stressing that student welfare, equitable access, and responsible policymaking remain central to government priorities. It thanked parents, students, and stakeholders for their patience and promised regular updates as consultations continue.
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