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| Minister of Education Prof Tujani Alausa |
The decision comes after reports that candidates sitting for the 2027 examinations could pay significantly higher registration fees. The proposal triggered criticism from parents, students, education stakeholders, and civil society groups, many of whom argued that the increase would place additional financial pressure on families already struggling with the country's rising cost of living.
In a statement released by the Federal Ministry of Education, the government confirmed that the planned fee review has been put on hold to allow for wider consultations with stakeholders before any final decision is reached.
According to the ministry, Minister of Education Dr. Tunji Alausa directed that the proposal be suspended in line with the administration's commitment to inclusive decision-making and transparent policy implementation.
The ministry explained that the consultation process will involve examination bodies, state ministries of education, school proprietors, teachers' associations, parents, organised labour, and other relevant stakeholders. Their input, it said, will help determine whether any future adjustment is necessary and how it can be implemented without creating unnecessary hardship for students.
Although the government acknowledged that examination bodies have experienced increased operational costs over the years, it stressed that any policy affecting millions of Nigerian students must be carefully considered.
Officials noted that the costs of organising national examinations have continued to rise due to inflation, logistics, security, printing of examination materials, technological upgrades, and quality assurance measures. Despite these challenges, the government said affordability and access to education remain top priorities.
The proposed increase had sparked widespread debate across the country, with many Nigerians expressing fears that higher examination fees could force some students, particularly those from low-income households, to postpone or even miss their final secondary school examinations.
Several education advocates also urged the government to explore alternative funding options instead of transferring additional costs to parents, warning that higher fees could negatively affect school enrolment and examination participation.
By suspending the proposal, the Federal Government said it hopes to build consensus through dialogue and ensure that any future decision reflects the interests of students, parents, schools, and examination agencies alike.
The ministry assured Nigerians that no new registration fee has been approved at this stage and advised members of the public to disregard speculation suggesting that the increase has already taken effect.