Federal Government Approves WAEC, NECO Fee Hike to ₦50,000, Effective 2027
The Federal Government has approved a fee increase for WAEC and NECO examinations, raising the cost to ₦50,000 per student starting in 2027. Former presidential candidate Atiku Abubakar has criticized the move, warning it could deepen Nigeria's education crisis.
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The Federal Government has approved a fee increase for West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WAEC) and National Examinations Council (NECO) tests, raising the cost to ₦50,000 per candidate starting in 2027, according to a report by Pulse Nigeria.
This decision marks a significant rise in examination fees for secondary school students across the country. The updated fee structure will apply to all candidates sitting for the exams in federal and state-owned schools beginning in 2027.
Atiku Abubakar, former presidential candidate and opposition figure, condemned the hike, warning it could worsen existing challenges in Nigeria’s education sector. “Atiku Abubakar condemns the Federal Government's fee hikes in Federal Unity Colleges, warning it may worsen Nigeria's education crisis and exacerbate poverty,” reported Legit.ng.
The fee adjustment has sparked concern among parents and education advocates, who fear it may limit access to critical certification exams for low-income families. WAEC and NECO examinations are prerequisites for university admissions and many job opportunities in Nigeria.
Details on the rationale behind the increase or how the funds will be allocated were not included in the initial reports. The government has not yet issued an official statement explaining the policy decision.