The National Examination Council (NECO) has flagged-off construction of seven offices in all geopolitical zone of the country.
The symbolic flag-off of works on the projects took place yesterday in Shabu community, Lafia local government area of Nasarawa State.
The new offices will be located in Nasarawa, Abia, Jigawa, Lagos, Rivers, Sokoto and Taraba.
The Minister of State for Education, Dr. Yusuf Sununu, performed the groundbreaking alongside Governor Abdullahi Sule.
NECO Registrar/chief executive officer, Professor Dantani Ibrahim Wushishi, said a comprehensive assessment of the council’s existing facilities nationwide revealed a pressing need for infrastructure upgrade.
“Many of our state offices were housed in rented apartments, often ill-equipped and unconducive to the efficient discharge of our duties. This realisation fueled our determination to prioritise the provision of modern, purpose-built facilities that would not only elevate the working, conditions of our dedicated staff but also enhance the overall image and standing of NECO,” he stated.
He said the new offices will serve as beacons of excellence in the administration of examinations in Nigeria, noting that the project is a direct outcome of the federal government’s commitment to infrastructure development within the education sector.
He added that the offices would not only improve staff morale and productivity but also project a positive image of NECO within Nigeria and the international community as an organization “whose assessments are trusted worldwide for their credibility”, adding that the edifices would renew and invigorate the council’s commitment to quality, fairness, integrity, and transparency in conducting examinations.
“As we look to the future, we envision a NECO that is not only a leader in the administration of examinations but also a catalyst for educational transformation in Nigeria. We are committed to leveraging technology and innovation to improve the quality and accessibility of our services. We will continue to work tirelessly to ensure that Nigerian students have access to fair, reliable, and valid assessments that will prepare them for success in the 21st century.
“As we break ground on this new chapter in NECO’s history, we reaffirm our commitment to providing quality examinations and assessments that meet the highest standards of excellence. We pledge to continue working collaboratively with all stakeholders to ensure that Nigerian students have access to the best educational opportunities”, he said.
Speaking at the event, Governor Abdullahi Sule commended NECO and Federal Ministry of Education for choosing Nasarawa to locate the office.
He expressed the state government’s commitment to supporting the examination body in all its activities in the state.
