WAEC AND NECO: FG HALTS PLANNED 2027 REGISTRATION FEE INCREASE
WAEC AND NECO on Monday said the Federal Ministry of Education had withdrawn the fee-increase letter sent on June 18, 2026, for review before any final decision. Director of Press and Public Relations, Boriowo Folasade, said the suspension followed public concerns and feedback, with stakeholders expected to participate in further discussions before implementation.
The ministry said the proposed increase was due to higher costs of running WAEC and NECO, including logistics, security, printing, technology, and quality checks. It also noted that registration fees have largely remained the same for years, even as expenses have increased, putting additional financial pressure on both examination bodies and the government’s education budget.
The WAEC and NECO fee proposal was ordered suspended by the Minister of Education, Dr. Maruf Tunji Alausa, to demonstrate the government’s commitment to inclusive, evidence-based decisions. The ministry stressed that policies affecting students and families must be carefully reviewed and serve the public interest.
The government will now talk with exam bodies, state education ministries, school leaders, parents’ groups, unions, and other stakeholders before making a final decision. Until then, the fee increase will not happen, ensuring existing registration fees remain unchanged for all candidates.
The ministry reported that student welfare, fair access to education, and careful policymaking are still key parts of the government’s education plan. It promised to keep the public updated during the review.
Earlier, the government approved a new fee of ₦50,000 for WAEC and NECO registrations starting in 2027, up from the current ₦27,500, which is about an 82 percent increase. WAEC had asked for the higher fee. However, former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and the National Association of Nigerian Students criticised the decision and opposed the increase, calling for greater consideration of students and their families.
