NECO establishes centre in London to serve Nigerians in diaspora

The National Examinations Council (NECO) has expanded its global footprint with the establishment of a new examination centre in London, United Kingdom.

Unveiling the centre, NECO Registrar and Chief Executive, Prof. Dantani Ibrahim Wushishi, said the initiative—implemented in partnership with Barnfield Education Ltd (BEP Education)—is a strategic step to enhance educational access for Nigerians living abroad.

Speaking at the Education Matters Conference UK 2025, organised by the Council to sensitise stakeholders about NECO’s presence in the UK, Wushishi explained that the centre would provide opportunities for Nigerian students and adult learners who, for various reasons, have been unable to complete their secondary education or obtain equivalent qualifications.

According to a statement signed by NECO’s Acting Director of Information and Public Relations, Azeez Sani, the Registrar noted that the move aligns with the Federal Government’s policy on educational inclusivity and global engagement.

Highlighting some of his achievements since assuming office in 2021, Wushishi reaffirmed NECO’s commitment to fully migrate to Computer-Based Examinations (CBE), describing it as a key milestone in positioning NECO as a world-class assessment body.

He added that NECO’s Senior School Certificate Examination (SSCE) is now conducted in seven countries, including Saudi Arabia, and that new centres awaiting accreditation in Egypt and Burkina Faso would further strengthen the Council’s continental presence.

“The establishment of the NECO SSCE Centre at BEP Education in London offers far-reaching benefits such as empowering the diaspora, boosting national pride, creating socio-economic dividends, and leveraging Nigeria’s educational capacity globally,” Wushishi said.

He also disclosed that NECO certificates are recognized by prestigious UK institutions such as Birmingham City University and Leeds Trinity University, as well as universities in the USA, Canada, India, China, and Russia.

In a goodwill message, Minister of Education, Dr. Maruf Alausa, commended NECO for the milestone, describing it as consistent with the Ministry’s mandate to ensure educational access for every Nigerian child, including those in the diaspora.

“The accreditation of BEP Education is the first step in a broader strategy to expand NECO’s reach to other strategic global locations, making Nigerian education a universally respected and accessible brand,” Alausa said.

Director of Barnfield Education Ltd, Dr. John Ibanga, who is NECO’s UK partner, explained that the London centre aims to support Nigerian students who face challenges within the British education system, particularly those unable to meet GCSE requirements.

He said the NECO SSCE would serve as an alternative route, offering recognised qualifications that enable further education and career advancement for both young learners and adult students.

During a courtesy visit to the Nigerian High Commission in London, Wushishi noted that the UK remains a strategic hub for Nigeria’s diaspora education agenda.

Responding on behalf of the Mission, Ambassador Eche Abu-Obe, Head of Political Affairs, commended NECO for the initiative, describing it as “a timely and commendable effort in line with Nigeria’s policy on educational inclusivity and diaspora engagement.”

He assured that the High Commission would continue to collaborate with NECO to advance Nigeria’s educational and developmental goals in the United Kingdom.