The decision was announced on Monday in a statement by Mrs. Folasade Boriowo, Director of Press and Public Relations for the Federal Ministry of Education.
To allow for a comprehensive review and broader stakeholder consultations, the ministry has withdrawn its June 18, 2026, letter regarding the fee adjustments.
“The current examination registration fees have remained largely unchanged for several years despite significant increases in operational costs, and other essential services required to maintain the integrity and credibility of public examinations across the country,” it stated.
The ministry said it acknowledged concerns and constructive feedback from the public and appreciated the keen interest shown by Nigerians in matters relating to access to quality education.
It said the Minister of Education, Dr. Maruf Tunji Alausa, directed that the proposal be placed on hold.
“The proposal has been placed on hold in line with the Federal Government’s commitment to inclusive, transparent and evidence-based policymaking.”
The ministry said the decision underscores its determination to ensure policies affecting millions of Nigerian students and their families are carefully considered, adding that such policies must be socially responsive and reflect the collective interest of the nation.
The ministry further noted that the review process would involve examination bodies, State Ministries of Education, school proprietors and administrators, parents’ associations, organised labour, education stakeholders and other critical partners.
“The proposed review of examination registration fees will not take effect, as earlier communicated, pending the conclusion of the consultation process.”
“The welfare of students, equitable access to quality education and responsible policy decisions remain at the heart of the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for the education sector,” It added.
Persecondnews recalls that the Federal Ministry of Education had on July 12 announced a uniform registration fee of ₦50,000 for the 2027 WAEC and NECO Senior School Certificate Examinations, up from ₦27,000 for WAEC and ₦30,000 for NECO, before suspending the proposal pending wider stakeholder consultations.