By Sunny A. David, Awka
The 2027 presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), Mr. Peter Obi, has applauded the Federal Government’s decision to suspend the proposed N50,000 West African Examinations Council (WAEC) examination fee, describing the move as a victory for the Nigerian people.
In a statement issued on Monday, July 13, Obi said he received the announcement with relief, noting that the government’s decision reflected the power of public engagement and responsiveness.
According to him, the suspension of the fee is a positive step that will ease the burden on millions of Nigerian families already facing economic hardship.
Obi argued that access to education should be expanded rather than restricted, stressing that basic education is a fundamental right and should not become a source of government revenue.
He maintained that imposing additional financial obligations on students at the basic education level could prevent many children from accessing education, adding that government has a responsibility to invest in developing the nation’s human capital instead of creating financial barriers.
The former Anambra State governor also urged the Federal Government to intensify efforts toward improving the education sector and tackling the growing number of out-of-school children across the country.
He further stated that effective leadership is demonstrated not only by making decisions but also by having the courage to reverse policies that place unnecessary hardship on citizens when they prove unpopular or counterproductive.
Obi added that there are other policies affecting Nigerians that should also be reviewed in the interest of the people.
He expressed appreciation to parents, civil society organisations, and other concerned Nigerians whose advocacy and public engagement contributed to the suspension of the proposed examination fee.
