The Federal Government of Nigeria has suspended its plan to increase registration fees for the 2027 WAEC (WASSCE) and NECO SSCE exams following widespread public outcry.
The initial proposal—communicated in a letter dated June 18, 2026—sought to increase exam registration costs by 82%, raising the price from ₦27,500 to ₦50,000 to offset the skyrocketing operational, logistical, and security costs of conducting national exams. However, the Minister of Education, Dr. Maruf Tunji Alausa, ordered the complete withdrawal of the proposal letter.
The Ministry of Education, through spokesperson Folasade Boriowo, stated that the hike is officially on hold until comprehensive reviews and broader dialogues are completed with key stakeholders, including parent associations, school owners, and organized labor. Former presidential candidate Peter Obi has already lauded the suspension as a victory for everyday Nigerians.
