Kogi State Covers WAEC fees for 18,000 Students

LOKOJA: In line with the state’s free education law, Governor Usman Ahmed Ododo has approved ₦600 million for WAEC fees for 18,734 students in public secondary schools for the 2024/2025 academic year.

The Governor has also committed to covering the costs of JAMB and NABTEB fees. This announcement was made by the Commissioner for Education, Hon. Wemi Jones, in a press statement released on Tuesday in Lokoja.

Commissioner Jones emphasized that the payment aligns with the Free Examination Fee law, which mandates the government to cover all internal and external examination fees for students in public primary schools. He commended Governor Ododo for upholding the educational legacy established by former Governor Yahaya Bello.

“For the upcoming WAEC exams, we sought the governor’s approval based on this law, resulting in the payment for 18,734 students,” he said. “This initiative ensures that the WAEC fees for public secondary school students in Kogi State are fully covered by the government.”

In 2024, the state-funded WAEC fees for 15,033 students increased by 3,700 students this year as more parents enroll their children in public schools.

“This policy aims to ease the burden on citizens, parents, and guardians while addressing the issue of out-of-school children and ensuring 100% completion of education at this level,” he added.

The Commissioner also expressed gratitude to school principals who facilitated the government’s initiatives last year but cautioned against any attempts to circumvent the regulations, warning of severe consequences for violations. He concluded by reiterating that the state will soon cover JAMB and NABTEB fees, along with the first school leaving certificate and Basic Examination School Certificates for public school students.