By Paul Okojie

The African Democratic Congress (ADC) Diaspora Worldwide has expressed concern over reports of a proposed increase in the registration fees for the West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WAEC) and the National Examinations Council (NECO), warning that such a move would place additional financial pressure on Nigerian families.

In a press statement signed by its Youth Leader, Hon. (Dr.) Abdul-Malik Rabiu Jaafar, FMNES, FCILRM, the group said increasing examination fees at a time of widespread economic hardship could prevent many students from completing their secondary education.

According to the statement, education remains one of the nation’s most important tools for development, and policies that make access to public examinations more expensive could undermine opportunities for young Nigerians.

The organization called on the Federal Government, the Federal Ministry of Education, WAEC, and NECO to reconsider any proposed increase in examination fees and instead adopt measures that would make education more affordable and accessible.

The ADC Diaspora Worldwide also urged the government to strengthen funding for the education sector and introduce support programmes for indigent students, arguing that no qualified student should be denied the opportunity to sit for national examinations because of financial constraints.

The group reaffirmed its solidarity with Nigerian students, parents, and other education stakeholders, calling for policies that promote equal access to education and safeguard the future of the nation’s youth.

The statement was signed by Hon. (Dr.) Abdul-Malik Rabiu Jaafar, FMNES, FCILRM, Youth Leader, ADC Diaspora Worldwide.