….Parents, Students, Stakeholders Applaud Decision as Government Begins Fresh Review of Examination Charges
The Federal Government has suspended the planned increase in the registration fees for the West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE) and the National Examinations Council (NECO) Senior School Certificate Examination following widespread opposition from Nigerians.
The suspension followed public outcry over the proposed adjustment of examination fees, which would have significantly increased the financial burden on parents and guardians already struggling with rising costs of living.
The planned increment, which was expected to take effect from future examination cycles, sparked reactions from education stakeholders, who warned that higher fees could discourage some students from participating in the national examinations.
Parents’ associations, student groups and education advocates had urged the government to reconsider the decision, arguing that public examinations should remain accessible to all eligible students regardless of their economic background.
Reacting to the concerns, the Federal Government directed that further consultations should be held with relevant stakeholders, including examination bodies, schools and parents, before any new fee structure is implemented.
Stakeholders acknowledged the need for WAEC and NECO to have adequate resources to conduct credible examinations, but insisted that funding solutions should not place excessive pressure on families.
The suspension has been described as a relief by many parents and students, who called on the government to introduce sustainable measures that will balance examination quality with affordability.
Education analysts have also urged the government to consider increased funding support for examination bodies rather than relying heavily on candidates’ fees.
The latest development is expected to pave the way for dialogue on a fairer and more inclusive examination financing system in Nigeria.
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