NECO Urges Wealthy Nigerians to Sponsor Indigent Students’ Examination Fees

Lokoja, Jan. 21, 2025 – The National Examination Council (NECO) has called on wealthy individuals and political leaders to invest in the education of indigent students by covering their examination fees.

Mr. Thaddeus Ajadu, NECO Coordinator in Kogi, appealed during a familiarisation visit to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) office in Lokoja. He highlighted the increasing demand for NECO examinations in Kogi and noted that greater financial sponsorship could significantly expand student participation.

“Many families struggle to afford examination fees for their children,” Ajadu said. “Support from philanthropic individuals and politicians would relieve this burden and boost enrollment.”

He revealed that since taking office, his team had focused on advocacy, increasing the number of NECO candidates in the state from 650 to 1,250, with 32 accredited schools and seven external examination centers now operational.

Ajadu emphasized NECO’s credibility, pointing out that results are electronically verified and globally recognized. “Our exams are accepted worldwide, and six other African countries now participate,” he noted.

Additionally, Ajadu raised awareness about NECO’s Special Examination for the Gifted, a Federal Government initiative designed to discover and nurture exceptional students. Successful candidates gain admission to the prestigious Suleja Academy in Niger State, with all educational expenses covered by the government.

“Unfortunately, many remain unaware of this golden opportunity. We need to publicize it more,” he said, urging partnerships with media and political actors to promote NECO’s five key offerings:
• Senior Secondary School Certificate Examination (Internal and External)
• Basic Certificate Examination
• National Common Entrance Examination
• Special Examination for the Gifted

Ajadu advised students and parents to avoid abbreviating names during registration to prevent future certificate issues.

In response, NAN’s State Correspondent, Mr. Thompson Yamput, pledged the agency’s support in raising awareness about NECO’s programs, recognizing their vital role in shaping students’ futures.