Gov Okpebholo Bags NECO Excellence Award
Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has received the National Examinations Council (NECO) Excellence Award. NECO honoured Edo State after students recorded the third highest percentage of candidates who earned five credits and above in the Senior School Certificate Examination (SSCE) Internal examinations since the council began operations.
Furthermore, the recognition highlights the improving academic performance of students across Edo State. It also shows the government’s growing investment in education. As a result, education stakeholders now regard the award as a major achievement for the state.
NECO Recognises Academic Excellence
The National Examinations Council (NECO) serves as Nigeria’s national examination body. The federal government established the council in April 1999 to conduct the Senior School Certificate Examination and other national examinations.
Currently, Prof. Dantani Ibrahim Wushishi leads the council as Registrar and Chief Executive. According to NECO, the annual award recognises state governments and institutions that consistently achieve strong academic results and encourage participation in its examinations.
In addition, the council explained that it measures performance through clear and data-driven standards. These standards include high pass rates, wider access to examinations, and continuous investment in education.
NECO also stated that the recognition promotes healthy competition among states. Therefore, it pushes governments to improve educational standards and learning outcomes.
According to the council, state governments play a key role in strengthening Nigeria’s education system. Consequently, the award motivates stronger commitment to quality education across the country.
Furthermore, NECO explained that the award supports its broader mission to promote quality education nationwide. The council stressed that examination outcomes should contribute directly to national development.
Gov Okpebholo Bags NECO Excellence Award for Edo Schools
In addition, NECO described the honour as both recognition and motivation. It said the award challenges other states and institutions to raise standards within Nigeria’s education sector.
As a result, many observers believe the recognition will encourage greater investment in schools, teachers, and educational infrastructure across the country.
The latest recognition marks the second major award the Okpebholo administration has earned in the education sector within less than two years in office.
Earlier in February, Governor Okpebholo won the New Telegraph Newspapers Governor of the Year Award in Education. The organisers praised the administration for introducing major reforms within its first year.
For example, the government built more than 100 schools across Edo State. In addition, it recruited 6,000 teachers to strengthen teaching and learning in public schools.
Furthermore, the administration increased monthly funding for state-owned universities from ₦41 million to ₦500 million. Stakeholders say the increase improved infrastructure, academic activities, and staff welfare in tertiary institutions.
Stakeholders Praise Education Investment
Meanwhile, education stakeholders in Edo State have welcomed the latest NECO recognition. They said the award reflects the positive impact of increased investment in education.
According to stakeholders, improved funding, better school facilities, and teacher recruitment strengthened students’ academic performance. They also noted that government support helped public schools compete more effectively.
In addition, many residents believe the recognition will boost confidence in Edo State’s education system. Therefore, they urged the government to continue policies that improve learning outcomes.
Overall, the NECO Excellence Award marks another important milestone for Edo State. It also strengthens the state’s growing reputation as one of Nigeria’s improving education hubs.
