FG Suspends WAEC, NECO Fee Hike After Backlash

Olawale Omotego
1 Min Read
Government Stops WAEC, NECO Fee Review

The Federal Government has suspended the planned increase in registration fees for the 2027 WAEC and NECO exams.

The Ministry of Education announced the suspension in a statement signed by its Director of Press and Public Relations, Boriowo Folasade,

The ministry withdrew the June 18, 2026 letter that approved the hike to allow wider consultations.

Officials explained that the review was proposed because of rising costs in logistics, security, printing, technology, and quality assurance. They noted that fees had stayed unchanged for years despite growing expenses.

Education Minister Dr. Maruf Tunji Alausa ordered the suspension. He said the government remains committed to inclusive and evidence‑based policymaking.

The ministry confirmed that consultations will involve exam bodies, state ministries, school owners, parents, labour unions, and other stakeholders. It stressed that students’ welfare and equal access to education remain top priorities.

Earlier, the government approved a uniform fee of N50,000 for WAEC and NECO exams starting in 2027, up from N27,500. The 82 percent increase drew criticism from former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and the National Association of Nigerian Students.

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