Opposition leaders praise reversal of examination fee increase but urge better policy planning to protect Nigerian students. 
Former Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi and former Vice President Atiku Abubakar have welcomed the Federal Government's decision to suspend the proposed increase in examination fees for the West African Examinations Council (WAEC) and the National Examinations Council (NECO).
In separate reactions, both opposition leaders described the suspension as a positive step for Nigerian students and their families, many of whom are facing economic hardship. They said keeping examination costs affordable is essential to ensuring access to education.
However, Peter Obi and Atiku criticised the government over what they described as poor planning and policy inconsistency, arguing that the proposed fee increase should have been carefully reviewed before it was announced.
They urged the government to adopt more transparent and well-coordinated policy processes, particularly on issues affecting education and the welfare of millions of students across the country.
The opposition figures also called for greater investment in the education sector, stressing that improving access to quality education should remain a national priority.
The suspension of the proposed WAEC and NECO fee hike has been welcomed by parents, students and education stakeholders, many of whom had expressed concerns that higher examination fees would place an additional financial burden on households already struggling with rising living costs.
Education advocates continue to call for long-term reforms that strengthen Nigeria's education system while ensuring that public policies are predictable, properly planned and responsive to the needs of citizens.