NECO Expands Global Reach, Opens New Exam Centre in London

ABUJA, NIGERIA — The National Examinations Council (NECO) has expanded its global footprint with the establishment of a new Senior School Certificate Examination (SSCE) Centre in London, in partnership with Barnfield Education Ltd (BEP Education).

Unveiling the centre, NECO Registrar/Chief Executive, Prof. Dantani Ibrahim Wushishi, said the initiative strengthens access to quality education for Nigerians in the diaspora, in line with the Federal Government’s inclusivity policy.

“Our commitment to full migration to Computer-Based Examination is the single most critical strategic objective for NECO’s future,” Wushishi said in a statement on Sunday. “Eliminating educational barriers for Nigerians abroad is both achievable and urgent.”

Speaking at the Education Matters Conference UK 2025, he revealed that NECO SSCE is now administered in seven countries, including Saudi Arabia, with new centres awaiting accreditation in Egypt and Burkina Faso.

Education Minister Dr. Maruf Tunji Alausa hailed the move as “a major milestone in making Nigerian education a globally respected brand,” while BEP Education Director, Dr. John Ibanga, described the centre as “an alternative pathway for Nigerian students in the UK facing GCSE challenges.”

The Nigerian High Commission in London pledged support for NECO’s initiative, describing it as “a timely and commendable step toward educational inclusivity and diaspora engagement.”

NECO certificates are recognised by universities in the UK, USA, Canada, China, India, and Russia.

TETFund Urges Integration of Education, Entrepreneurial Skills to Unlock Africa’s Potential

The Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFund) has highlighted the importance of combining education with entrepreneurial skills to unleash Africa’s potential.

Speaking at the Africa Leadership Magazine Summit in London, TETFund’s Executive Secretary, Arc. Sonny Echono, stressed the need for this integration.

He received the Africa Leadership Excellence Award in Educational Development from Bahamas Prime Minister Philip Davis at the event.

Echono, in his acceptance speech, underscored the theme “Africa Unleashed: Navigating Disruptions, Enhancing Opportunities” as a clarion call for global leaders to take action.

He emphasised the significance of robust policies and strategies to help Africa overcome challenges and capitalize on opportunities.

According to TETFund’s Director of Public Affairs, Abdulmumin Oniyangi, in a statement on Friday, the summit aimed to bring together policymakers, business leaders, and stakeholders to discuss sustainable socio-economic strategies for the continent.

Echono emphasized the need for democratic practices, good governance, and transparency for political stability and economic growth.

He also highlighted the importance of investing in human capital through healthcare, education, and poverty reduction to cultivate a skilled and productive population.

Echono emphasized that empowering Africa’s youth through entrepreneurship education can foster innovation and drive economic growth.

Gom Marian-Report