Gov Ododo Approves N600 Million Payment for WASSCE Fees of 18,734 Students in Kogi Public Schools

Governor Usman Ododo of Kogi State has authorized the payment of N600 million for the 2024/2025 WASSCE fees for 18,734 students in public secondary schools across the state.

The announcement was made by the Kogi State Commissioner for Education, Wemi Jones, during a discussion with journalists in his office on Tuesday. He stated, "The state government will cover the WASSCE fees in accordance with the free examination fee law for pupils in public schools enacted in 2023."

Jones explained that this law mandates the government to pay for all internal and external examinations for students in public primary and secondary schools. He commended Governor Usman Ahmed Ododo for maintaining the educational initiatives established by former Governor Yahaya Bello.

"For the 2024/2025 WASSCE, we approached the Governor as per the existing law to approve the payment for WASSCE fees for 18,734 students," he said. "With this development, the WASSCE fees for public secondary schools in Kogi State have been fully covered by the state government."

In 2024, the state government previously paid for **15,033 students**, and the increase of **3,700 students** this year reflects a growing trend of parents enrolling their children in public schools.

"This policy is aimed at making life easier for citizens, parents, and guardians," Jones emphasized. "It also seeks to combat the issue of out-of-school children and ensure 100% completion of education at this level."

He thanked the principals of schools for their cooperation last year but cautioned that any misconduct would lead to severe penalties. Additionally, the state government plans to cover the JAMB and NABTEB fees for public school students, as well as the First School Leaving Certificate and Basic Examination School Certificate fees for pupils.

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