Nigerian Government Suspends WAEC, NECO Fee Hike Amid Stakeholder Review
The Nigerian Federal Government has suspended a proposed 82% increase in WAEC and NECO exam fees, initiating a review process with education stakeholders.
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The Nigerian Federal Government has suspended a planned increase in registration fees for the West African Examinations Council (WAEC) and National Examinations Council (NECO) tests, following public concern. The move follows earlier reports that the fee for the Senior School Certificate Examination (SSCE) would rise by 82% to 50,000 naira.
Announcing the suspension, the Ministry of Education stated it would conduct a comprehensive review of the proposed adjustment. 'As part of the fresh review process, the Ministry will engage extensively with examination bodies, state ministries of education, school proprietors and administrators, parents' associations, organised labour, education stakeholders and other critical partners,' according to a statement cited by Vanguard News.
Initial reports from Business Day on July 12, 2026, indicated the federal government had approved the fee hike, with new rates expected from 2027. However, the subsequent suspension reflects ongoing deliberations. The government has not announced a timeline for the conclusion of the review.
The SSCE is a key qualification for secondary school students in Nigeria, administered jointly by WAEC and NECO. Any fee adjustment impacts millions of candidates annually. The government’s decision to pause and consult stakeholders underscores the sensitivity of education policy reforms in the country.