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By Abdullahi Inuwa
In a strong show of commitment to educational development, Borno State Governor, Professor Babagana Umara Zulum, has approved the disbursement of ₦529,699,500 to cover the 2025 West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE) fees for 26,158 final-year students across public secondary schools in the state’s 27 local government areas.
The symbolic handover of the payment took place at the Quality Assurance Office in Maiduguri on Friday, with the Honourable Commissioner for Education, Science, Technology and Innovation, Engr. Lawan Abba Wakilbe, presiding.
Wakilbe described the initiative as a clear demonstration of Governor Zulum’s unwavering drive to promote inclusive and equitable access to education, especially for students from low-income and vulnerable backgrounds.
He noted that the government routinely subsidises 75% of WASSCE registration fees for eligible students in public schools, ensuring thousands can sit for their final exams without financial obstacles.
“This consistent intervention by the state is part of Governor Zulum’s broader vision to create an educational system where no child is left behind,” the commissioner stated.
Wakilbe highlighted a significant outcome of the initiative: public school candidates now receive their WAEC results at the same time as their counterparts in private schools, ensuring a level playing field for all students.
Since 2019, the Borno State Government has spent ₦3.52 billion on external exam fees, benefiting a total of 165,442 students.
Commending the West African Examinations Council (WAEC) for its collaboration, Wakilbe acknowledged the extension of exam centres to remote areas including Askira Uba and Ngala, eliminating the need for students to travel to Maiduguri and easing the burden on boarding facilities.
He also praised local government chairmen and stakeholders for their vital support in ensuring logistics and smooth implementation of the programme. Notably commended were the chairmen of Gubio, Kaga, Bama, Damboa, Mafa, Dikwa, Monguno, Mobbar, Gwoza, Magumeri, Chibok, among others, as well as Hon. Abubakar Tijjani, Special Adviser on Education, and Abba Sheriff, Director of the Education Resource Centre.
“This effort is a milestone in our post-insurgency educational recovery journey. It reflects the resilience and determination of our students, teachers, and communities to rebuild and move forward,” Wakilbe added.
WAEC Hails Zulum’s Education Reforms
On behalf of the West African Examinations Council, Dr. Leonard Mado Odoh, Deputy Registrar and Zonal Coordinator of the WAEC Zonal Office in Maiduguri, confirmed receipt of the payment and commended Governor Zulum for his continued support.
“We are here representing the Head of the National Office to receive this substantial payment from the Borno State Government. This is not a one-time event but part of an enduring legacy,” Dr. Odoh remarked.
“The payment of ₦529,699,500 is a remarkable feat and a testament to His Excellency’s dedication to educational advancement. We sincerely appreciate this consistent commitment.”
With this significant investment, Borno State continues to set an example in rebuilding education systems in the aftermath of conflict, demonstrating that even in adversity, learning must not be halted.
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