FG Suspends N50,000 WAEC, NECO Fee Increase Proposal

On June 18, 2026, the Federal Ministry of Education announced the suspension of a proposed increase in the registration fee for the West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WAEC) and the National Examinations Council (NECO) to N50,000, which represented an 82% increase from the current fee of N27,500. This decision was made amid significant criticism from various stakeholders, including former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and the National Association of Nigerian Students, who expressed concerns about the financial burden on parents and students.

The ministry, led by Dr. Maruf Tunji Alausa, emphasized the need for a comprehensive review and broader consultations with relevant stakeholders, including examination bodies, school proprietors, and parent associations, before any final decision is made. The ministry reaffirmed its commitment to transparency and ensuring equitable access to quality education while pledging to keep the public informed throughout the consultation process.