Kogi State Governor Approves N600 Million for Over 18,000 WASSCE Students’ Fees

Kogi State Governor, Usman Ododo, has sanctioned the payment of N600 million to cover the 2024/2025 WASSCE fees for 18,734 students in public secondary schools. This development aligns with the state’s commitment to providing free examination fees for students in public schools, a policy enacted in 2023.

Announcing the decision in Lokoja, the Kogi State Commissioner for Education, Wemi Jones, praised Governor Ododo's dedication to continuing the initiatives laid by his predecessor, Yahaya Bello. According to Jones, the newly allocated funds will ensure that all eligible public school students can take their WASSCE examinations without financial strain.

“This policy is intended to make life easier for our citizens and ensure 100% completion rates at the secondary education level,” Jones stated. He added that the government’s commitment to covering fees has encouraged parents to enroll their children in public schools, leading to an increase of 3,700 students in 2024 compared to the previous year.

The Commissioner further disclosed that Kogi State will also cover the costs of JAMB and NABTEB fees for students in public schools, as well as the First School Leaving Certificate and Basic Education School Certificate fees for primary pupils.

Jones took the opportunity to commend school principals who helped facilitate this initiative in 2023, while cautioning those who might attempt dishonest practices regarding the strict penalties for any such actions.