Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and Peter Obi, both presidential candidates for 2027, welcomed the federal government's decision to pause planned increases in examination registration fees. The two politicians had previously opposed the proposed hike in fees for the 2027 West African Senior School Certificate Examinations and the National Examinations Council examinations.
The government had announced on Sunday that it would raise WAEC fees from N27,000 to N50,000 and NECO fees from N30,000 to N50,000. The proposal sparked widespread criticism from education stakeholders, parents' groups and political figures across the country.
The Federal Ministry of Education announced the suspension yesterday, saying it would conduct a thorough review of the policy before moving forward. The ministry's director of press and public relations, Boriowo Folasade, confirmed the decision had been made in response to public concerns and feedback from Nigerians.
According to the ministry, the original proposal stemmed from Nigeria's economic challenges and the rising costs of conducting credible national examinations. The ministry noted that registration fees had remained largely flat for years despite mounting expenses for logistics, security, printing materials, technology and quality assurance measures.
Education Minister Dr. Maruf Tunji Alausa directed the suspension, citing the government's commitment to inclusive and transparent policymaking that considers evidence carefully.
The ministry said policies affecting millions of students and families required broad consultation before implementation.
The ministry outlined an extensive engagement process going forward with examination bodies, state education officials, school leaders, parents' associations, labour unions and other education stakeholders. These consultations would shape any future decisions on examination fees, the ministry said.
Any fee increase will not take effect until the consultation process concludes and a final decision is made, the ministry stressed. The government reaffirmed that student welfare, equitable access to quality education and responsible policymaking remained priorities under President Bola Tinubu's Renewed Hope Agenda.
Atiku said Nigeria should not become a testing ground for policy experiments that lack proper planning and stakeholder input. He urged the government to ensure all major policy decisions underwent rigorous consultation with affected communities.
Obi described the suspension as a triumph for ordinary Nigerians who had mobilised against the increases. He called on the government to maintain this consultative approach for all future policies affecting education and the welfare of citizens.
The ministry thanked parents, students and other stakeholders for their patience and continued support. Officials pledged to keep the public informed throughout the review and consultation process.
