Kogi pays N497 million as WAEC fees for a total of 15,033 pupils

 By: News Peddlers

Yahaya Bello 

Kogi has set aside N497 million to pay the West African Examination Council (WAEC) examination fees for 15,033 students enrolled in the state's schools in 2023.

"This is part of my administration's commitment to free education and a 'Zero Out-of-School Policy' to help our young citizens fulfil their God-given potential."

"It is also part of efforts to improve the state's educational system," said the governor. Onogwu Mohammed, Governor Yahaya Bello's media adviser, cited the governor as stating in a statement published in Lokoja on Saturday.

The governor also stated that the money was disbursed to fulfil his administration's recent vow to provide free education from primary to secondary school levels in the state's public schools.

"This decisive step reflects my administration's commitment to ensuring that every child, regardless of socioeconomic status, has access to quality education."

"The gesture is intended to enable students to take important exams without putting financial strain on their parents or guardians."

"In addition, my administration will not hesitate to penalise parents who do not enrol their children in school."

"This comprehensive approach to education highlights the state's commitment to not only increasing access to education but also ensuring active participation," Mr. Gov. Bello said in a statement.

Three of Kogi's 21 local government districts topped the list of students who benefited.

Dekina Local Government Area has the most beneficiaries among the 15,033 pupils, with 1,867, followed by Lokoja Local Government Area with 1,569, and Okene Local Government Area with 1345.

(NAN)