Kogi State Governor, Yahaya Bello, has approved the immediate disbursement of N497 million for the payment of the 2023 WAEC examination fees for students enrolled in public schools across the state.

This was made known in a statement issued by the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Muhammed Onogwu, on Saturday, November 4, 2023.

He stated that the disbursement was in realisation of Governor Bello administration’s recent pledge to provide free education from primary to secondary school level in public schools in Kogi State.

According to Onogwu, the schools that will benefit from the WAEC fees initiative include Dekina, which has the highest number of students with 1,867 beneficiaries, followed by Lokoja Local Government Area, which has 1,569 students, and Okene, 1,345 students.

He added: “In total, this noble initiative will benefit a substantial 15,033 students, fostering a brighter educational future for the youth of Kogi State.

READ ALSO: Yahaya Bello declares free education, distributes N2bn palliatives in Kogi

“This resolute step reflects the administration’s dedication to ensuring that every child has the opportunity to access quality education, regardless of their socioeconomic status.

“It aims to empower students to undertake crucial examinations without imposing any financial burden on their parents or guardians.

“Furthermore, the governor recently emphasised that his administration would penalise parents who fail to enroll their children in school under his leadership.

“This comprehensive approach to education underscores the state’s commitment to not only increasing access to education but also ensuring active participation.”

The Star