Former Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has welcomed the Federal Government’s decision to suspend the proposed increase in registration fees for the 2027 West African Senior School Certificate Examination, WASSCE, and the National Examinations Council Senior School Certificate Examination, NECO SSCE, describing the move as “a victory for the Nigerian people.”
The Federal Government had on Monday announced the suspension of the planned fee review, withdrawing its June 18, 2026 circular to pave the way for wider consultations with stakeholders. The Ministry of Education explained that although the proposed adjustment was prompted by rising operational costs, it was suspended following public concerns and in line with the government’s commitment to inclusive and evidence based policymaking.
Reacting in a statement posted on his X account, Obi commended the government for listening to public opinion and reversing the decision. He, however, maintained that the proposed increase should not have been introduced in the first place.
“I received the welcome news of the suspension of the newly introduced examination fees with relief. This is a victory for the Nigerian people,” Obi said.
According to him, the proposed increase would have imposed an additional burden on families already struggling with economic hardship and further limited access to education for many Nigerian children.
While applauding the authorities for responding to public outcry, Obi argued that government should prioritise investment in education rather than introducing policies capable of increasing the number of out of school children.
He stressed that education is a fundamental right and a public good that should remain accessible to every Nigerian, warning that additional financial obligations at the basic education level could discourage school enrolment.
“At a time when many families are struggling to make ends meet, access to education should be expanded, not restricted. Education is a fundamental right and a public good, not a source of government revenue,” he stated.
Obi further noted that governments demonstrate responsible leadership by reviewing and reversing policies that impose unnecessary hardship on citizens, adding that other policies with adverse effects on Nigerians also deserve reconsideration.
He also acknowledged the role played by parents, civil society groups and concerned citizens whose sustained opposition to the proposed fee increase contributed to the government’s decision.
The Federal Government had earlier suspended the proposed review of WASSCE and NECO registration fees for the 2027 examination cycle, saying the decision followed extensive public feedback and would allow for broader engagement with relevant stakeholders before any future action.
