In a remarkable display of commitment to excellence in education, the National Examinations Council (NECO) has once again demonstrated that hard work, integrity, and dedication never go unnoticed. The council, during its 2024 Staff Productivity Award Ceremony held in Minna, Niger State, recognized and celebrated the best-performing candidates, schools, supervisors, and staff members across Nigeria.
This annual recognition not only inspires young learners to aim higher but also reassures teachers, supervisors, and administrators that their efforts in shaping Nigeria’s future leaders are valued at the national level.
Why NECO’s Recognition Matters
Examinations are not just about grades and certificates; they represent a test of discipline, resilience, and preparation. By rewarding excellence, NECO sends a clear message to students and staff:
- Excellence is achievable when commitment and discipline are applied.
- Hard work is recognized and celebrated at the highest level.
- Integrity and credibility in education must be upheld for the system to thrive.
According to the Registrar/CEO of NECO, Prof. Dantani Ibrahim Wushishi, the awards go beyond simply recognizing outstanding performances. They are also about instilling discipline, teamwork, continuous self-improvement, and ethical conduct in both students and staff.
The Star Performers: Who Made Nigeria Proud
The award ceremony celebrated bright young minds who excelled in different national examinations conducted by NECO. These categories showcased not just academic brilliance but also the resilience and determination of students across the country.
🏆 Best Candidates – National Common Entrance Examination (NCEE)
- Master Balogun Farian Ajibola
- Miss Iyasei Ifeanyichukwu Victory
These young students emerged as the top scorers in the entrance exams that qualify pupils for admission into Federal Unity Colleges, proving that Nigeria’s future is filled with promising leaders.
🏆 Best Performers – National Gifted Examination
- Mr. Udo Jacob Chimmremeze Godslove Samuel (Diamond Special Schools, Owerri)
- Miss Okpala Chukwugozirin Kamtochukwu (Primary School, Nnewi)
This special category celebrates exceptional students with unique intellectual abilities, reminding us that talent can shine from any corner of the country.
🏆 Best Candidates – Basic Education Certificate Examination (BECE)
- Master Charles Bryan Uzoma
- Miss Awanbor Omoriyekmwen Claire
(Both from Igbinedion Education Centre, Benin City)
These students proved their brilliance at the junior secondary school level, showing readiness for higher academic challenges.
Recognizing Staff Excellence
NECO also extended its recognition beyond students by honoring the staff who ensure the smooth running of examinations nationwide. This shows that the council values not only intellectual achievement but also dedication to service and professionalism.
- Best State Coordinator: Mr. Thadeus Ajagbu (Kogi State)
- Best Driver for 2024: Mr. Ola A. Kareem
This broad-based recognition highlights NECO’s belief that every role—whether administrative or supportive—contributes to the council’s success and credibility.
Prof. Wushishi’s Leadership and Reforms
The Registrar, Prof. Dantani Ibrahim Wushishi, emphasized that the awards are tied to a bigger vision of repositioning NECO as a credible, transparent, and globally respected examination body. In his three years of leadership, the council has achieved significant milestones:
- Timely conduct and release of results, ensuring students can progress without unnecessary delays.
- Transparent promotion processes that build trust and morale among staff.
- Adoption of ICT-driven solutions, making NECO’s processes more efficient, fair, and corruption-free.
These reforms have earned NECO recognition not just within Nigeria, but also among education stakeholders globally.
Political Leaders Applaud NECO
The Speaker of the Niger State House of Assembly, Alhaji Abdulmalik Sarkin-Daji, commended Prof. Wushishi’s leadership. He described NECO’s current reputation for credibility and integrity as a direct outcome of the Registrar’s dedication and reforms.
This endorsement reinforces the importance of strong leadership in shaping national institutions.
Why This Is a Big Deal for Nigerian Education
Celebrating excellence in education does more than reward individuals—it transforms society. Here’s why this development is significant:
- Inspires students to push themselves academically and ethically.
- Motivates schools and teachers to uphold high standards in training their students.
- Encourages staff dedication, knowing their contributions are acknowledged.
- Strengthens public trust in NECO as a credible examination body.
