Federal Government Suspends Proposed 82% Increase in WAEC, NECO Examination Fees

The Federal Government has put on hold its proposed increase in examination registration fees for the West African Examinations Council (WAEC) and the National Examinations Council (NECO) after widespread opposition from parents, education stakeholders, labour groups, and the general public.

The proposed adjustment, which would have increased the examination fee to ₦50,000 per candidate from 2027, sparked concerns over the growing cost of education amid Nigeria's current economic challenges.

Many parents argued that the increase would place an unbearable financial burden on families, especially those with two or more candidates preparing for external examinations, with some estimating they would have to pay over ₦100,000 to ₦150,000 in registration fees alone.

Although education authorities cited rising operational costs—including logistics, security, and examination administration—as reasons for the proposed review, the government has now suspended the implementation following sustained public outcry.

The Ministry of Education said it would commence broad consultations with parents, school proprietors, teachers' unions, examination bodies, and other stakeholders to develop a more balanced approach that safeguards access to quality education while addressing the increasing cost of conducting national examinations.

The decision has been welcomed by many Nigerians, with several public figures and opposition leaders, including Atiku Abubakar and Peter Obi, describing the suspension as a positive response to citizens' concerns and a demonstration of the impact of public engagement in democratic governance.

Further announcements are expected after the stakeholder consultations are concluded, with the government expected to determine whether any future adjustment to examination fees will be implemented.