The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) has voiced strong opposition to the recent decision by the National Examinations Council (NECO) to impose a N50,000 fee for the reprinting of certificates.
In a statement released on Tuesday, NANS described the fee as exorbitant and unjustified, arguing that it places an unnecessary financial burden on students and graduates seeking to replace lost or damaged certificates. The student body called on NECO to immediately review the decision, urging the examination council to consider the economic realities facing Nigerian students.
NANS President, Usman Barambu, expressed the association’s frustration, stating, “This fee is outrageous, especially considering the economic hardship faced by many students and their families. Education should be accessible, and this move by NECO only creates more barriers.”
The reprinting fee, introduced by NECO as part of its new policy on certificate replacement, has drawn widespread criticism from students, parents, and educational stakeholders across the country. Many argue that the fee is disproportionate to the administrative costs involved in reprinting certificates and have called for a more affordable option.
NECO, however, has yet to issue an official response to the backlash. The controversy continues to stir debates about the cost of education in Nigeria and the accessibility of essential academic services.
