The Kogi government pledges to give education top priority

Governor Ododo: Funding WAEC Fees Is a Responsibility, Not a Favour

Kogi State Governor, Usman Ododo, has stated that his administration’s payment of students’ West African Examinations Council (WAEC) fees should not be viewed as a favour but as part of his fundamental duty to the people.

Governor Ododo made this remark during an unscheduled visit to the GYB Model Science School in Adankolo, Lokoja, on Tuesday. He emphasized that supporting education is a core responsibility of his government.

“This is not a favour. It’s what we were elected to do,” Governor Ododo told the students. He reaffirmed his administration’s unwavering commitment to prioritizing quality education across the state.

The governor explained that his surprise visit was aimed at personally assessing the school’s environment and understanding how students are coping. He expressed gratitude for the warm reception from the students and assured them that his government would continue to invest in education to secure a brighter future for Kogi State.

“When you progress to higher institutions, you will benefit from bursaries and other scholarship programs,” Ododo promised.

Reflecting on his own educational journey, Governor Ododo shared how his family’s modest background made his academic pursuit challenging. He pledged to ensure that no student in Kogi State would face similar obstacles, regardless of their social or economic status.

“Our state’s future depends on how well we invest in your education today. I will not fail you,” he assured.

Recalling a personal experience from his school days, Governor Ododo shared how he missed the opportunity to shake hands with the late former governor, Abubakar Audu, during a school visit. To make a meaningful connection, Ododo personally shook hands with every student in the class, sparking excitement among them.

The school’s principal, Mr. Ajofe Godwins, expressed deep appreciation for the governor’s commitment to education. He praised the government’s rare achievement of funding three fully established universities alongside other educational institutions.

Mr. Godwins also recounted the transformation of the school under former Governor Yahaya Bello. He recalled Bello’s visit on November 28, 2016, when he pledged to build a new model school to replace the deteriorating structure. The promise was fulfilled with the commissioning of the new edifice by former President Muhammadu Buhari on December 29, 2022.

Governor Ododo’s visit and his commitment to sustaining educational development highlight his administration’s dedication to empowering students and securing a prosperous future for Kogi State.