The Kogi State Government has announced its intent to take strict action against any head of public primary and secondary schools found sabotaging its free education policy. This warning was issued on Tuesday by the state’s Commissioner for Education, Hon. Wemi Jones, during a visit by the National Parent-Teachers Association of Nigeria (NAPTAN), Kogi Chapter, to his office in Lokoja.
Jones expressed concern over the activities of some principals and head teachers who are exploiting the state’s free education system, cautioning them to cease immediately. He emphasized that the government’s initiative to provide free education in public schools should not be abused.
“Our free education program for pupils and students in public primary and secondary schools is a serious commitment, and any school administrator caught undermining it will face severe consequences,” said Jones.
The Commissioner highlighted that the government recognizes education as the only long-lasting solution to societal challenges, and investing in it is a key legacy of Governor Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo’s administration.
He further stressed that the recently enacted “Free Examination Registration Fees for Kogi State Students and Pupils in Public Primary and Secondary Schools Law” ensures that basic, primary, and secondary education is completely free. As part of the policy, the state government covers the costs of all internal and external examinations for students in public schools, including the Common Entrance, Basic Six, BECE, SSCE (WAEC), NECO, NABTEB, Mock, and JAMB exams.
Though the current policy only applies to public schools, Jones assured that private schools would eventually be included once accurate data on private institutions is gathered.
The Commissioner called on NAPTAN to provide the government with reliable information to help improve educational planning and policy implementation.
NAPTAN’s Kogi Chairman, Mr. John Omeiza Abenege, commended the government’s commitment to education, particularly its free education policies, and pledged the association’s full support in ensuring their success. He also expressed gratitude to Governor Ododo for prioritizing education in the state.
