The Federal Government has clarified that there is no age restriction for students wishing to take the National Examinations Council (NECO) and West African Examinations Council (WAEC) exams. This announcement comes amid widespread speculation and concerns regarding potential age limits for candidates taking these crucial national examinations.
The statement, released by the Ministry of Education, emphasized that all students, regardless of age, are eligible to register for and sit the NECO and WAEC exams. This move is aimed at ensuring inclusivity and providing equal educational opportunities for all students across the country.
“There is no age barrier for any student aspiring to sit for NECO or WAEC exams. Our focus is to provide access to education and assessment without unnecessary restrictions,” the statement read. The government also reiterated its commitment to fostering an inclusive educational environment where every learner can pursue their academic goals.
The clarification from the Federal Government is expected to put an end to the confusion and concerns among parents, guardians, and students about age-based eligibility for these exams. The government has called on schools, examination bodies, and stakeholders to comply with this directive and ensure that no student is barred from participating based on age.
As the NECO and WAEC examinations remain key assessments for secondary school students in Nigeria, this announcement reinforces the government’s dedication to supporting the educational aspirations of every young Nigerian.