By Peter Omopo | Abuja
In a major stride toward global expansion, the National Examinations Council (NECO) has inaugurated its first examination centre in London, United Kingdom — a move aimed at enhancing access to education for Nigerians in the diaspora.
The new centre, established in partnership with Barnfield Education, London, was officially inaugurated by NECO’s Registrar and Chief Executive, Prof. Ibrahim Dantani Wushishi, during the Education Matters Conference UK 2025.
Speaking at the event, Wushishi described the initiative as a “strategic step to expand access to education for Nigerians abroad and strengthen NECO’s global presence.”
“The NECO SSCE Centre with Barnfield Education, London, represents a strategic location for expanding access to education for Nigerians in the diaspora,” Wushishi said.
According to a statement by NECO’s Acting Head of Public Relations, Azeez Sani, the registrar explained that the centre would provide examination opportunities for Nigerian students and adult learners in the UK who have been unable to complete their secondary education or obtain equivalent qualifications.
Empowering the Nigerian Diaspora
Wushishi emphasised that the initiative aligns with the Federal Government’s education policy on inclusivity and global engagement.
“Our goal is to make credible, accessible examinations available to Nigerians worldwide. The diaspora is an integral part of the Nigerian education ecosystem,” he said.
He reaffirmed NECO’s commitment to the diaspora and Africa’s broader educational advancement, revealing that the Senior School Certificate Examination (SSCE) is now administered in seven countries, including Saudi Arabia.
“Our global expansion is accelerating. We have new centres awaiting accreditation in Egypt and Burkina Faso, further solidifying NECO as a premier African assessment body,” he added.
Since assuming office in 2021, Wushishi noted that NECO’s transition to Computer-Based Examinations (CBE) has been one of its most significant milestones.
“Our commitment to full migration to Computer-Based Examination remains the most critical strategic objective for NECO’s future as a world-class assessment body,” he said.
He added that the London centre would empower Nigerians abroad, enhance national pride, and strengthen the global recognition of Nigeria’s education system.
Global Acceptance and Partnerships
Wushishi also highlighted that NECO certificates are recognised by several UK institutions, including Birmingham City University and Leeds Trinity University, and accepted globally in countries such as the United States, Canada, India, China, and Russia.
In his goodwill message, Minister of Education, Dr. Tunji Alausa, lauded NECO for the landmark initiative, describing it as consistent with the ministry’s mandate to serve all Nigerian learners, including those abroad.
“The Federal Ministry of Education views the diaspora not just as a community to serve, but as a resource to be empowered. Every Nigerian student deserves an education that enables them to thrive globally,” Alausa said.
He noted that the London centre marks “the first step in a broader strategy to make Nigerian education a globally respected and easily accessible brand.”
A Lifeline for Learners in the UK
The Director of Barnfield Education Ltd, Dr. John Ibanga, NECO’s UK partner, said the London centre offers an alternative route for Nigerian students who face challenges within the British education system.
“Many Nigerian children in the UK struggle to meet GCSE requirements, limiting their progression opportunities. The new NECO SSCE Centre provides a recognised qualification pathway for further education and career development,” Ibanga explained.
He added that the initiative would benefit both young learners and adult candidates seeking academic or professional advancement.
Other speakers at the conference commended NECO’s foresight and pledged to mobilise support among Nigerians in the UK for the new computer-based examination centre.
Expanding Across Africa
NECO has previously established accredited centres in Niger Republic, Equatorial Guinea, Benin Republic, Togo, Côte d’Ivoire, and Saudi Arabia. Its first international centre was at the UNHCR School in Diffa, Niger Republic.
The council’s accreditation process, officials noted, includes thorough evaluation of facilities — from classrooms and laboratories to examination halls and computer labs — to ensure compliance with global standards.
With the establishment of its London centre, NECO continues to solidify its reputation as an international assessment body, offering Nigerians and Africans alike access to credible, world-class examinations.
“This expansion underscores NECO’s commitment to empowering learners everywhere and promoting Nigeria’s educational excellence on the world stage,” Wushishi concluded.
