Sokoto State Governor, Ahmed Aliyu
Sokoto State Government has disclosed spending N4.7 billion over the past two years to cover registration fees for students taking external examinations, ensuring access regardless of their families’ financial lcircumstances.
In an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Thursday in Abuja, the state’s Commissioner for Basic and Secondary Education, Prof. Ahmed Ala, revealed that the funds supported students’ participation in examinations conducted by the West African Examinations Council (WAEC), National Examinations Council (NECO), Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB), and National Board for Technical Education (NABTEB).
“This initiative reflects the state’s commitment to enabling every eligible student to sit for these critical exams, regardless of economic barriers,” Ala stated.
He further explained that the government allocates approximately N66 million monthly to provide imprests to secondary school principals for addressing immediate school needs, such as minor repairs. “Each principal receives N200,000 monthly to manage these essential expenses,” he noted.
To enhance teacher welfare, Ala highlighted that the state has raised teachers’ salaries from a range of N20,000 to a minimum of N70,000, aligning with the national minimum wage. “Previously, teachers faced delays, often receiving salaries near the end of the following month. Now, by the 19th or 20th, every teacher gets paid, barring any banking issues,” he told NAN.
Ala emphasized the government’s focus on increasing school enrolment and retention in basic education.
“We are actively engaging parents and guardians to not only enrol their children but also ensure they complete their educational programs,” he said, underscoring ongoing efforts to raise awareness about the importance of sustained education.
NAN
