Obi Aguocha's Public Outcry Pays Off as FG Suspends Proposed WAEC, NECO Exam Fee Hike

The Federal Government has suspended the proposed review of registration fees for the 2027 West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE) and the National Examinations Council (NECO) Senior School Certificate Examination (SSCE), following widespread public criticism and calls for a rethink. The Federal Ministry of Education, in a statement dated July 13, 2026, said the proposal had been placed on hold to allow for broader consultations with stakeholders before any final decision is reached.

Recall that Hon. Obi Aguocha, Member representing Ikwuano/Umuahia North and South Federal Constituency, was among the first federal lawmakers to publicly reject the proposed N50,000 uniform examination fee, describing the policy as insensitive and capable of worsening the hardship already confronting millions of Nigerian families. He urged the Federal Government to immediately review the proposal, insisting that education should remain affordable and accessible to every Nigerian child irrespective of their social or economic background.

Aguocha argued that the proposed fee failed to reflect the harsh economic realities in the country. According to him, "Many Nigerian families are living daily lives of hopelessness and insufficient opportunities. We need, as a matter of urgent national importance, to review this onerous policy thrust on our people and take cognisance of the difficult and underperforming social and economic challenges in the country."

The lawmaker also questioned the logic behind fixing a uniform examination fee of N50,000 when Nigeria's national minimum wage is N70,000. "How does that make sense?" he asked. "Even if one is earning N150,000 monthly, how can a family survive with all these fees and the rising cost of living? Parents are already battling inflation, transportation costs, rent, food prices and other school-related expenses."

Hon. Aguocha further warned that introducing such a policy at a time of severe economic hardship would only increase the number of out-of-school children and place additional pressure on struggling households. He maintained that when citizens are pushed to the wall economically, the consequences often include rising insecurity, corruption, kidnapping and other social vices, urging the government to adopt policies that inspire hope rather than deepen despair.

Announcing the suspension, the Federal Ministry of Education said the letter conveying the proposed fee adjustment had been withdrawn to pave the way for comprehensive stakeholder consultations. The Ministry acknowledged the concerns raised by Nigerians and reiterated the Federal Government's commitment to inclusive, transparent and evidence-based policymaking, while noting that the proposed review was initially informed by the rising cost of conducting credible national examinations.

The development has been widely welcomed by parents, education stakeholders and civil society groups, with many describing the Federal Government's decision as a victory for constructive public engagement. Observers say the strong intervention by Hon. Obi Aguocha and other concerned Nigerians contributed significantly to the decision to suspend the proposed fee hike and reopen discussions on a more affordable and socially responsive approach.

Obi Aguocha to FG: Reverse N50,000 WAEC, NECO Fee Before It Destroys the Dreams of Nigerian Children"

The Member representing Ikwuano/Umuahia Federal Constituency, Hon. Obi Aguocha, has expressed deep concern over the Federal Government's reported approval of a uniform examination fee of N50,000 for candidates sitting for WAEC and NECO examinations from 2027. He described the policy as insensitive to the current economic realities facing millions of Nigerian families.

Reacting to the development, Aguocha said the proposed examination fee would impose unbearable financial pressure on parents and guardians who are already struggling with the rising cost of living, inflation, unemployment, and declining purchasing power. According to him, education should remain accessible to every Nigerian child and not become a privilege reserved for those who can afford exorbitant fees.

The lawmaker maintained that many Nigerian families now live from hand to mouth with little or no hope of economic improvement. He noted that introducing a uniform examination fee of N50,000 at a time when the national minimum wage stands at N70,000 raises serious questions about the government's understanding of the daily realities confronting ordinary citizens.

"How does it make sense for a family to pay N50,000 for a single examination when the minimum wage is N70,000?" Aguocha asked. "Even for workers earning N150,000 monthly, survival has become increasingly difficult because of soaring food prices, transportation costs, school fees, rent, healthcare expenses, and other basic necessities."

Hon. Aguocha called on the Federal Government to urgently review the proposed policy in the interest of national development. He stressed that any policy affecting access to education must be carefully evaluated to ensure it does not further widen the gap between the rich and the poor or force more children out of school.

The federal lawmaker further warned that increasing the financial burden on struggling families could have wider social consequences. According to him, growing economic hardship, hopelessness, and limited opportunities continue to fuel insecurity, corruption, kidnapping, and other criminal activities across the country, making it imperative for government to adopt people-centred policies.

He therefore urged the Federal Government and relevant education authorities to reconsider the proposed uniform examination fee and engage stakeholders in finding a more affordable and sustainable solution that guarantees every Nigerian child the opportunity to complete secondary education without undue financial hardship.

SUNDAY TONIC Theme: Faith That Overcomes Fear - Mascot Uzor Kalu

Bible Passage: Isaiah 41:10 (NKJV) – "Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you, yes, I will help you, I will uphold you with My righteous right hand."

Good morning, beloved in Christ. We thank God for the privilege of witnessing another glorious Sunday. It is not by our strength, wisdom, or righteousness that we are alive today, but by the abundant mercy and unfailing love of God. As we gather to worship Him and meditate on His Word, let us open our hearts with expectation, believing that He is ready to speak, strengthen, and transform every life.

The world we live in is filled with reasons for people to be afraid. There are economic uncertainties, health challenges, family pressures, disappointments, and unanswered questions. Many believers are silently battling fear about their future, their finances, their careers, and even their faith. Yet God continually reminds His children that fear should never have the final say because His presence is greater than every challenge we may encounter.

Our theme today, "Faith That Overcomes Fear," reminds us that faith is not the absence of challenges but the confidence that God remains in control despite them. Isaiah 41:10 is God's personal assurance that we are never alone. He promises to strengthen us, help us, and uphold us whenever we face situations beyond our understanding. When we choose faith over fear, we invite God to demonstrate His power in our weakness.

As we study today's passage, may we lay aside every doubt, anxiety, and worry that has occupied our hearts. Let us embrace God's promises with unwavering confidence, knowing that He has never abandoned those who trust in Him. May this message renew your hope, strengthen your faith, and remind you that the God who has brought you this far is more than able to carry you through every season of life.  ✍️ Mascot Uzor Kalu 

Recognizing Government’s Efforts While Encouraging Better Governance and Sustainable National Development; By Mascot Uzor Kalu

Nigeria is at a defining moment in its history, one that calls for visionary leadership, national unity and collective sacrifice. In times such as these, it is important to evaluate government with fairness and sincerity, recognizing genuine efforts while encouraging continuous improvement. Nation building is a gradual process, and every meaningful reform deserves the support and understanding of patriotic citizens.

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu assumed office at a period of significant economic and security challenges. Since then, his administration has demonstrated remarkable courage in implementing reforms aimed at repositioning Nigeria’s economy, improving public finances, expanding infrastructure and restoring investor confidence. These bold initiatives reflect a commitment to securing a stronger and more prosperous future for the country.

The President has consistently shown determination to confront long-standing structural issues that have slowed Nigeria’s development for decades. His Renewed Hope Agenda has brought renewed attention to economic diversification, infrastructure development, local government autonomy, agricultural productivity and fiscal discipline. While reforms of this magnitude naturally require time to mature, they are laying the groundwork for sustainable national growth.

As members of the governing party continue to support the administration’s vision, there is every reason to remain optimistic about Nigeria’s future. At the same time, the government’s greatest strength will be its ability to sustain the momentum of reform, accelerate implementation and ensure that the dividends of these policies reach every community across the federation.

Nigerians have always demonstrated resilience in difficult times, and that resilience should be matched by continued commitment from government to improve service delivery, strengthen security, create more employment opportunities and expand economic opportunities for businesses and young people. The shared objective is a nation where every citizen can feel the positive impact of ongoing reforms.

The responsibility of national development extends beyond government alone. Political leaders, traditional rulers, religious institutions, the private sector and citizens all have important roles to play in supporting policies that promote peace, productivity and national cohesion. A united Nigeria will always be stronger than a divided one.

There is no doubt that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has exhibited courage and political will in pursuing reforms designed to reposition Nigeria for long-term prosperity. His administration deserves recognition for staying focused on its vision despite the complexity of the challenges before it. With sustained commitment, effective implementation and the continued support of Nigerians, the Renewed Hope Agenda has the potential to deliver lasting economic growth, stronger institutions and a brighter future for generations to come.

​Igbo World Union President-General, His Imperial Majesty Amb. Mishak Nnanta, KJW, Felicitates with Abians and Nigerians on the New Month

The President-General of the Igbo World Union, His Imperial Majesty Amb. Mishak Nnanta, KJW, has extended his heartfelt New Month greetings to the people of Abia State, Ndị Igbo across the world, and Nigerians at large, urging them to remain united, resilient, and committed to building a peaceful and prosperous nation.

Speaking over the phone with the NewsMasters Newspaper correspondent, Amb. Nnanta expressed gratitude to God for His mercy and protection, saying the beginning of a new month is another reminder that hope remains alive despite the nation's economic and security challenges.

The Igbo World Union President-General called on Nigerians, particularly the Igbo people at home and in the diaspora, to continue promoting peace, hard work, mutual respect, and cultural values that have long distinguished the Igbo nation.

According to him, sustainable development can only thrive where there is unity, justice, and purposeful leadership. He urged citizens not to give up on the country but to continue making positive contributions within their communities while supporting initiatives that promote national cohesion.

Amb. Nnanta also appealed to leaders at all levels to place the welfare of the people above personal interests, stressing that responsive leadership remains the foundation for national progress.

"I warmly congratulate Abians, Ndi Igbo across the globe, and all Nigerians on the commencement of this new month. May it bring peace, good health, divine favour, abundant opportunities, and renewed strength for every family. Let us continue to stand together in unity and work towards a brighter future for our people and our nation," he said

He concluded by praying for lasting peace, economic recovery, and greater prosperity for Abia State, the South East, and Nigeria, expressing confidence that with faith, unity, and determination, the country will overcome its present challenges.

​Former APC Governorship Aspirant, Chief Mascot Uzor Kalu, Felicitates with Abians and Nigerians on the New Month

Chief Mascot Uzor Kalu has extended warm New Month greetings to the people of Abia State and Nigerians, encouraging them to remain hopeful, resilient, and united despite the challenges facing the country.

Speaking to newsmen, Chief Kalu expressed gratitude to God for the gift of life and the opportunity to witness the beginning of another month. He urged citizens to approach the new month with optimism, hard work, and a renewed commitment to peace and development.

According to him, every new month presents another chance for individuals, families, and communities to pursue their aspirations while contributing to the growth and progress of society.

The former APC governorship aspirant called on political leaders, public office holders, and community stakeholders to continue placing the welfare of the people above personal interests, stressing that responsive leadership and collective responsibility are essential for sustainable development.

Chief Kalu also encouraged the people of Abia State to remain law-abiding and continue in their prayers for unity, security, and economic growth across the state.

"I congratulate all Abians and Nigerians on the commencement of this new month. May it bring renewed hope, good health, peace, prosperity, and greater opportunities for every household. Let us remain steadfast in faith and united in our determination to build a better Abia State and a stronger Nigeria," he said.

He concluded by praying for God's guidance upon the nation's leaders and divine blessings upon every family, expressing confidence that brighter days lie ahead for Abia State and Nigeria.

​Dr. Uche Ogah Wishes Abians and Nigerians a Happy New Month, Calls for Hope and Unity

As the nation begins a new month, Dr. Uche Ogah has extended his warm wishes to the people of Abia State and Nigerians across the country, urging them to embrace the new month with renewed hope, determination, and faith.

Speaking over the phone with the NewsMasters Newspaper correspondent, Dr. Ogah expressed gratitude to God for preserving lives despite the economic and social challenges confronting the nation. He encouraged Nigerians not to lose hope but to remain steadfast, hardworking, and united in the collective pursuit of a better future.

According to him, every new month presents another opportunity to rebuild dreams, strengthen communities, and contribute meaningfully to national development.

Dr. Ogah also called on leaders at all levels to remain committed to good governance, transparency, and people-oriented policies that will improve the welfare of citizens. He further urged Nigerians to continue supporting one another irrespective of political, ethnic, or religious differences.

He offered prayers for lasting peace, improved security, economic recovery, and greater prosperity for Abia State and Nigeria, expressing confidence that the country will overcome its present challenges.

“I wish every family in Abia State and across Nigeria a peaceful, productive, and prosperous new month. May this month bring renewed opportunities, divine favour, good health, and success in all your endeavours,” Dr. Ogah said during the telephone interview with the NewsMasters Newspaper correspondent. 

He concluded by encouraging citizens to remain optimistic, uphold the values of unity, integrity, and patriotism, and continue working together for the progress and development of Abia State and Nigeria.

Ikwuano Umuahia Rep Seat: Ignore Fake Stakeholders Endorsement of Lucky Igbokwe - Group Declares

An Abia State based socio-political support group, The Visible Mandate, has condemned what it described as "fake "Stakeholders" endorsement of one Lucky Igbokwe, popularly known as Don Lulu as a consensus candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC) for the federal house of representatives' seat for Ikwuano/ Umuahia Federal Constituency, adding that the perpetrators and organisers of such assembly are ignorant of the Electoral Act and the Constitution.

In a statement made available to newsmen in Umuahia, the capital city of Abia State, the spokesman of the group, Comrade Opara Philip Emmanuel, stated:

 "The attention of our support group has been drawn to a misleading and clearly orchestrated piece of information making the round concerning an alleged “stakeholders’ meeting” and a so-called “consensus candidate” in Ikwuano/Umuahia Federal Constituency by some undesirable perpetrators and organisers who are ignorant of the 2026 electoral act as amended and the 1999 constitution as amended respectively which stated that political aspirants can be voted through direct primaries, indirect primaries and consensus in a collective and transparent inclusion.

"Electoral Act and the 1999 constitution outlined that there are only two organs of any political party in Nigeria viz: the National Executive Committee (NEC) and the National Working Committee (NWC) who directly participate in the decisions and the processes of political party affairs, primary elections, congresses and conventions.

"We urge the duo of Charles Ogbonna, His son, Johnpedro Irokansi, Emeka Chionye and Tony Eze to kindly consult their lawyers for the interpretation of the 2026 Electoral Act and the Nigeria constitution with regards to the fundamentals of the electoral processes in Nigeria.

"The purported "consensus candidate" from the palace of unknown "Stakeholders" is nothing but a laughably calculated propagandum by a loopsided few All Progressives Congress (APC) unfaithful individuals who are alien to the Electoral Act and the Constitution. It is important to remind the players and mischievous sponsors of this falsehood that all these wave of propaganda started shortly after their failed attempt to use a petition against  Rt. Hon. Engr. Chinedum Enyinnaya Orji at the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to blackmail him even as no court of competent jurisdiction has pronounced him guilty of any financial crime.

"It is shameful to note that they have realized that their baseless petition yielded no result hence they resort to misinformation as their next strategy.

"Their desperation sadly intensifies as it has become obvious that Rt. Hon. Chinedum Orji has already gained massive grassroot - support and clearly ahead even before the D-day of the primary elections. This propagandum is therefore designed to deceive the public to believing that Rt. Hon. Chinedum Orji will not participate in the primary elections. 

"Without any contradiction, we warn that this false impression will not stand. We state categorically clear that Rt. Honorable Engr. Chinedum Orji is fully in the race and the people of Ikwuano/Umuahia Federal Constituency are solidly behind him.

"The National leadership of the APC has stated that primaries can be by direct primaries or consensus where all the aspirants agree in writing to support an agreed candidate. 

"We ask, can a so called charles Ogbonna, his son , a staff member of the state government that is a registered member of the Labour Party by name of Johnpedro Irokansi, another civil servant by name of Emeka Chionye and a one man sole stakeholder from Ohuhu the ever treacherous Tony Eze, constitute the stakeholders of an entire local government?

"Can they be bold enough to bring out the communique signed by these “stakeholders“? Since when has Johnpedro Irokansi become a registered member of the APC to host a meeting that concerns the APC as a party for the meeting to be held in his house?

"May we also remind these so called "stakeholders" especially one Charles Ogbonna that the days of his intimidation and self-styled assumption of authority are long gone as he has no capacity to dictate the affairs of his community talkless of Umuahia. 

"More importantly, there is an existing agreement of shared political sharing of position in Umuahia north. 

Five people including a father and son cannot change it. We challenge them to produce the evidence of a signed agreement by all the aspirants from umuahia north supporting this charade. 

"After sponsoring petitions to disqualify Rt Hon Chinedu Enyinnaya Orji and failed woefully, the same envious and ungrateful “five man” fake stakeholders resorted to defining there own party guidelines out of self imposed envy, extortion, ingratitude and pure hate. 

"Unfortunately, these bunch of people having derived political relevance from the same Orji family, they choose to fight filthily by taking a step further engaging in all manner of anti- democratic steps to stop the fomer speaker’s nomination. They can’t impose their hate on the people. 

"We have the mandate of Rt. Hon. Chinedu Orji to inform these people of Ikwuano/ Umuahia federal constituency that the fomer speaker’s intent to participate in tomorrow’s primaries will successfully prevail. Their antics as usual have failed.

"Tomorrow, Saturday 16, 2026, during the primary elections, the truth will speak loudly. We will come out en masse and massively vote for Rt. Hon. Chinedum Orji because there is no amount of propaganda that would override the will of the people. The mandate belongs to the people and the people have already decided", Comrade Philip wrote.

Recall that on Thursday, it was reported that stakeholders of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Umuahia North have unanimously endorsed one Lucky Igbokwe, popularly known as Don Lulu, as the consensus candidate for the Ikwuano/Umuahia Federal Constituency House of Representatives seat ahead of the forthcoming elections.

The decision was reportedly contained in a communiqué issued at the end of a meeting involving Umuahia North stakeholders and aspirants contesting for the House of Representatives position.

According to the communiqué, stakeholders resolved that the House of Representatives seat for the Ikwuano/Umuahia Federal Constituency should be ceded to the Ohuhu Clan to allow the clan complete the remaining four years of the existing eight-year power-sharing arrangement.

The meeting, which allegedly involved party leaders, stakeholders and aspirants, reportedly reached the decision after extensive consultations and mutual agreements aimed at promoting equity, fairness and political stability within the constituency.

The communiqué further stated that all aspirants present at the meeting agreed to support the emergence of Don Lulu in the spirit of unity, inclusiveness and collective progress of the party.

“No Part of Umuahia Central Will Be Left Behind” — Hon. Chinasa Anthony (Abiola )Tells Constituents

Umuahia, Abia State — The Member representing Umuahia Central State Constituency, Honourable Chinasa Anthony, has reaffirmed his commitment to inclusive governance, declaring that no part of the constituency will be left behind in the delivery of democratic dividends

Honourable Anthony made this known while interacting with newsmen in Umuahia, where he emphasized that his representation is guided by equity, fairness and a deep understanding of grassroots needs across all communities within Umuahia Central.

According to him, deliberate efforts are being made to ensure that development projects and empowerment programmes are evenly distributed, covering both urban and rural areas of the constituency. He stressed that leadership must be people centered and responsive to the yearnings of all segments of society.

“No part of Umuahia Central will be left behind. We are committed to ensuring that every community benefits from quality representation and meaningful development,” he stated while addressing journalists.

The lawmaker further disclosed that consultations with stakeholders and community leaders remain ongoing, aimed at identifying priority areas that require immediate government intervention.

He also reiterated his support for the development agenda of the Abia State Government under Alex Otti, noting that collaboration between elected officials will enhance the pace of progress across the state.

Honourable Anthony urged residents to remain united and continue to support initiatives geared towards the growth of Umuahia Central, assuring that his office remains open to feedback and engagement at all times.

The interaction with newsmen, he noted, forms part of his commitment to transparency and accountability in public service, as he continues to keep constituents informed about ongoing efforts and future plans.

HON. ANDERSON AKALIRO CHARGES ABIA COLLEGE OF HEALTH MATRICULANTS ON EXCELLENCE, COMMENDS OTTI’S EDUCATION REVOLUTION

The Member representing Umuahia North State Constituency, Anderson Akaliro, has congratulated the newly admitted students of the Abia State College of Health Science and Management Technology, Aba, describing their matriculation as the beginning of a defining journey into professionalism and service to humanity.

Speaking to newsmen shortly after the ceremony, Hon. Akaliro delivered a strong message anchored on discipline, purpose, and academic excellence, urging the matriculants to recognize the weight of the opportunity before them.

According to him, gaining admission into a health institution is not just an academic pursuit but a call to responsibility, where competence, compassion, and ethical conduct must go hand in hand.

“You are not just here to acquire certificates,” he stated. “You are being prepared for a future where lives will depend on your knowledge, your discipline, and your sense of duty. That is why your character must be as strong as your intellect.”

He warned the students against distractions such as cultism, examination malpractice, and other social vices, stressing that such paths only lead to wasted potential and shattered dreams. He urged them to remain focused, resilient, and committed to the ideals of hard work and integrity.

Hon. Akaliro expressed confidence that the matriculants would rise to the occasion, excel in their studies, and emerge as competent professionals who will make meaningful contributions to the healthcare system and society at large.

He went on to commend the Governor of Abia State, Alex Otti, for what he described as a bold and transformative investment in education, noting that the administration’s reforms are restoring standards, rebuilding institutions, and renewing confidence in the state’s educational system.

The lawmaker also applauded the Speaker of the Abia State House of Assembly, Emmanuel Ihuoma Emeruwa, for his unwavering support for policies that promote quality education, as well as his timely emphasis on the enduring values of character and learning.

Hon. Akaliro concluded by encouraging the students to remain steadfast in their pursuit of excellence, reminding them that the future they desire will be shaped by the choices they make from this very moment.