The Kano State Government has received the Award of Excellence from the National Examinations Council (NECO) in recognition of its outstanding support for candidate sponsorship and registration in the Senior School Certificate Examination (SSCE).
Kano State emerged as the Second Best Outstanding State in the sponsorship and registration of a high number of candidates for two consecutive academic sessions—2023/2024 and 2024/2025.
The award was presented on Thursday, May 7, 2026, during the grand finale of NECO’s 25th Anniversary celebration held at the International Conference Centre, Abuja. The event brought together education stakeholders, policymakers, and dignitaries from across the country to mark 25 years of NECO’s role in promoting credible examinations and strengthening Nigeria’s education system.
Receiving the award on behalf of the state government, the Commissioner for Education, Gwani Dr. Ali Haryna Abubakar Makoda, said the recognition reflects Kano State’s sustained investment in expanding access to quality secondary education and ensuring that no eligible student is denied education due to financial constraints.
He dedicated the award to the Governor of Kano State, Alhaji Abba Kabir Yusuf, as well as teachers, students, and education officials whose collective efforts contributed to the achievement.
“This award is a result of hard work, perseverance, and the state government’s commitment to prioritizing education as the foundation for sustainable development in Kano society,” Makoda said.
He noted that for two consecutive years, the state government has mobilised resources to sponsor and register thousands of students for NECO examinations, adding that the administration remains committed to sustaining the initiative.
The Commissioner further explained that the recognition aligns with the state’s broader education reform agenda under the Kano State Education Emergency Recovery Plan, which focuses on improving learning outcomes, infrastructure, and access to education, particularly for girls and vulnerable youths.
He also expressed appreciation to NECO for the honour and reaffirmed the state’s commitment to maintaining high standards in examination sponsorship, registration processes, and adherence to examination ethics.
The statement was signed by Musbahu Aminu Yakasai, Director of Public Enlightenment, Kano State Ministry of Education.