In Nigeria, the staggering fees charged by the top secondary schools-ranging from 1.5 million to 4.5 million annually-raise questions about their actual impact on student performance. Schools like Grange School and British International School lead the list, but despite their luxurious facilities and high costs, they have not produced top performers in critical examinations such as WAEC and JAMB.

This contradiction suggests that financial investment alone does not equate to academic success.

The West African Examination Council (WAEC) and the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) statistics revealed a troubling trend: students from these elite institutions have consistently failed to excel in national examinations. For instance, no student from these high-fee schools has ever achieved first place in WAEC or JAMB, which raises concerns about the effectiveness of their educational programs. In contrast, schools known for their rigorous academic standards, regardless of their fee structure, often produce top results.

Furthermore, the reality of university admissions in Nigeria complicates the narrative surrounding expensive schools. With limited slots available in universities—around 600,000 for nearly two million candidates—students are increasingly reliant on their WAEC and JAMB scores to secure admission.

However, many students from high-fee institutions struggle with foundational knowledge, leading to poor performance when they transition to higher education. This gap highlights that a prestigious school does not guarantee preparedness for university level challenges.

Parents are urged to reconsider their priorities when choosing schools for their children. The belief that expensive tuition guarantees quality education can lead to financial strain without corresponding academic benefits. Instead, focusing on schools with proven track records in external examinations may offer a more reliable path to success. Institutions like Loyola Jesuit College have demonstrated consistent excellence in WAEC results, proving that quality education is not solely tied to high fees.
Ultimately, success in education stems from a combination of personal effort, effective teaching methods, and supportive environments rather than mere financial investment. Parents should prioritize holistic development over prestige, recognizing that true academic achievement is built on dedication and hard work rather than the price tag of a school.