A Civil Society Organisation, the Campaign for Equal Rights and Opportunities for All Nigerians (CERON), has criticised the Federal Government’s approval to increase the registration fees for the West African Examinations Council (WAEC) and the National Examinations Council (NECO) examinations to N50,000.
The group described the decision as insensitive, arguing that it would worsen the financial difficulties faced by millions of Nigerian families amid rising inflation, food prices and the increasing cost of living.
In a statement issued by CERON’s Secretary, Francis Odiir, the organisation said many parents were already struggling to meet basic needs, including feeding their families and paying school-related expenses.
“Parents are already battling to provide food for their families, not to mention quality education. At a time like this, increasing examination fees is simply not right. Rather than easing the burden on citizens, the government is adding to their hardship,” Odiir said.
CERON said the fee increase showed a lack of understanding of the economic realities confronting ordinary Nigerians, adding that the policy could further deepen the education crisis in the country.
“The approval of the increase in examination fees is a clear indication that those in charge of this country do not understand the magnitude of the pain and suffering Nigerians are going through,” the group stated.
The organisation called on the Federal Government to reverse the decision immediately, noting that the proposed increase had generated opposition among parents, education stakeholders and other concerned Nigerians.
CERON also warned that the higher fees could worsen the country’s out-of-school children crisis, as some students may be forced to discontinue their education due to their parents’ inability to afford the cost of examinations.
Samuel Agada is a writer and media contributor from Olamaboro Local Government Area of Kogi State, Nigeria. He is a graduate of Biochemistry from the University of Jos and a former banker with GTBank and FCMB. A prolific writer, songwriter, educator, and Gospel preacher, he is passionate about informing, inspiring, and impacting society through his work.