Kogi State Governor, Alhaji Usman Ahmed Ododo, has taken a significant step towards educational empowerment by approving a generous allocation of N600 million to cover the West African Examinations Council (WAEC) fees for an impressive 18,734 students in public secondary schools throughout the state for the 2024/2025 academic year.
This initiative aligns with the state’s existing law on free examination fees for pupils in public schools, a policy initially established by former Governor Yahaya Bello.
The law mandates that the government assumes responsibility for all internal and external examination fees for students in public schools, effectively alleviating the financial strain on parents and guardians.
“The policy also seeks to address the issue of out-of-school children and ensure 100% completion of secondary education,” stated Hon. Wemi Jones, the Commissioner for Education.
He emphasized the government’s commitment to making education accessible to all, while also commending school principals for their support of this initiative in the previous year. However, he issued a stern warning: “Any principal attempting to undermine the government’s efforts will face severe sanctions.”
Notably, the number of students benefiting from this policy has seen a remarkable increase of 3,700, rising from 15,033 in 2024 to 18,734 in 2025. This surge reflects a growing trend of students transitioning from private to public schools, showcasing the effectiveness of the government’s educational policies.
In addition to covering WAEC fees, the state government is also poised to extend its support to include fees for the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB), National Business and Technical Examinations Board (NABTEB), as well as for the First School Leaving Certificate and Basic Education Certificate Examinations for public school students.
This comprehensive approach underscores Kogi State’s dedication to enhancing educational opportunities and fostering a brighter future for its youth.
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