In a remarkable act of generosity, Nasarawa State Governor Abdullahi Sule has paid the National Examinations Council (NECO) fees for more than 24,000 secondary school students in the state, a move that is set to ease the financial burden on families and improve access to education.
Governor Sule, who has consistently advocated for educational development in the state, made the announcement on Monday during a ceremony at the state’s Ministry of Education. The payment covers the registration fees for students sitting for the 2025 NECO exams, allowing them to sit for the crucial national exams without the worry of financial constraints.
“This is a significant investment in the future of our youth and the overall development of our state,” Governor Sule said in his address. “Education is the bedrock of progress, and we are committed to ensuring that every student in Nasarawa has equal opportunities to succeed.”
The Governor’s initiative is part of his administration’s broader plan to improve educational standards and reduce barriers to academic success. The decision to cover the NECO fees follows a series of educational reforms introduced by Sule’s government, including the construction of new classrooms, the recruitment of more teachers, and the provision of learning materials.
Parents and students have expressed their gratitude, with many praising the governor for his foresight and commitment to ensuring that financial challenges do not impede their children’s academic journeys.
“This gesture will relieve a lot of pressure from families who have been struggling to pay for their children’s exams. It’s a huge relief,” said Mariam Yusuf, a parent of one of the beneficiaries. “We are very grateful to Governor Sule for his support.”
For the students, this development comes as a great source of motivation. “I am so happy and relieved,” said Ahmed Ibrahim, a final-year student at the Government Secondary School Lafia. “Now I can focus on my studies without worrying about how to pay for the exam fees.”
Educational stakeholders have also lauded the move, with experts saying it could set a precedent for other states to follow. “This is a commendable effort by the Nasarawa State government. It ensures that no student is left behind due to financial constraints, which is crucial in building a stronger future for the country,” said Dr. Amina Bello, an education consultant.
Governor Sule’s gesture comes at a time when the cost of education continues to rise across Nigeria, making access to exams like NECO a significant challenge for many families. His decision has been hailed as a crucial step toward bridging the educational gap and fostering an environment where every student has the chance to succeed.
source: thenationonlineng.net
