TD Abuja, Nigeria – The Federal Government has announced the suspension of the proposed increase in registration fees for the 2027 West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE) and the National Examinations Council (NECO) Senior School Certificate Examination (SSCE).
This was contained in a press release issued by the Federal Ministry of Education on Monday, July 13.
The government confirmed that the earlier directive dated June 18, 2026, which approved a hike from ₦27,500 to ₦50,000 per candidate, has been withdrawn.
The ministry explained that the suspension was necessary to allow for comprehensive stakeholder consultations before any final decision is taken.
The statement acknowledged the widespread public outrage that followed the announcement.
It noted that Nigerians had expressed serious concerns about affordability and access to education.
The ministry emphasized that while rising operational costs had informed the initial proposal, the government remains committed to inclusive, transparent, and evidence-based policymaking.
Dr. Maruf Tunji Alausa, Minister of Education, directed that the proposal be placed on hold.
He stressed that policies affecting millions of Nigerian students and families must be socially responsive and reflect national interests.
The ministry also assured that future decisions will involve consultations with examination bodies, state ministries of education, school proprietors, parents’ associations, organized labour, and other stakeholders.
This development comes amid renewed scrutiny of President Bola Tinubu’s education promises.
During his 2022 campaign, Tinubu pledged to pay WAEC fees for every child, declaring that “no one will be left behind.”
However, the June 2026 approval of a fee hike to ₦50,000 sparked criticism.
Many Nigerians are accusing the administration of turning a promise into a burden.
For context, see also: [Video] from Promise to Burden: Tinubu Promised Free WAEC Fee in 2023 But Rather Increased It in 2026.
With the suspension now in place, attention shifts to how the government will balance economic realities with its commitment to equitable access to education.
For millions of families, the outcome of these consultations will determine whether the dream of affordable education remains alive.
