Nigerian Lawmakers reject proposal to make WAEC, UTME free for all

The House of Representatives in Nigeria has dismissed a motion that sought to mandate the federal government to provide free access to the 2023/2024 secondary school examinations for all Nigerians.

The motion, presented by Anamero Dekeri, had urged the federal government to offer free registration for the WAEC, NECO, and JAMB examinations during this academic session. However, it faced opposition from fellow lawmakers.

The timing of this motion is noteworthy, given the ongoing criticism of lawmakers for allocating substantial funds for their official vehicles.

Dekeri argued in his motion that the federal government, having saved money through the removal of the petroleum subsidy, should extend help to struggling families. He proposed that the Ministry of Education should make the examinations free, emphasizing the need for direct benefits from the removal of fuel subsidy.

Once the motion was presented, it encountered strong resistance from members of the House. Julius Ihonvbere, the Majority Leader, suggested an amendment to have lawmakers fund the free examinations, but this proposal was contested by Ado Doguwa, who stated that members were already covering the fees.

After a prolonged debate, Awaji Abiante proposed that the House defer the motion, a suggestion that was unanimously accepted.