In a significant development in the realm of education, Governor Dauda Lawal has successfully negotiated the release of the West African Examination Council (WAEC) results, which were withheld for Zamfara Secondary School students. This breakthrough comes after a protracted period of uncertainty caused by the non-payment of N1.4 billion examination fees owed by previous administrations in the state.
A statement issued by Sulaiman Bala Idris, the spokesperson of the Zamfara Governor, revealed that Governor Lawal convened a crucial meeting with the leadership of WAEC at his office in Abuja on Monday. The WAEC delegation, led by Hajiya Binta Abdulkadir, Chairman of the Administrative and Finance Committee, and Dr. Amos J. Dangut, the head of the National office of WAEC Nigeria, engaged in extensive discussions with Governor Lawal and other key stakeholders.
Governor Lawal’s proactive approach underscored the present administration’s commitment to addressing the education sector’s challenges, particularly the state of emergency declared in education. During the meeting, Governor Lawal, accompanied by Mallam Wadatau Madawaki, the honorable commissioner of education, science, and technology, emphasized the urgency of resolving the longstanding issue of outstanding debts owed to WAEC by Zamfara state.
The prolonged non-payment of WAEC fees had resulted in the withholding of examination results, depriving affected students of essential opportunities, including participation in the mandatory National Youth Service Corps program. However, following extensive deliberations, an agreement was reached between the Zamfara State Government and WAEC on a payment plan to settle the backlog debt.
At the conclusion of the meeting, WAEC committed to releasing the withheld results promptly, enabling Zamfara students to proceed with their academic pursuits. Furthermore, students will be allowed to participate in the upcoming 2024 WAEC Examinations, marking a significant step forward in resolving the impasse.
The presence of senior officials from WAEC Nigeria, including Mr. Ambrose Okelezo, the Zonal Coordinator, Mr. Victor C. Odu, the Director of Finance, and Mr. Segun U. Jerumeh, the Deputy Director, underscored the collaborative effort to address the issue comprehensively.
Governor Lawal’s diplomatic intervention and the subsequent resolution of the WAEC results impasse signify a pivotal moment in the quest to enhance educational opportunities and ensure the welfare of Zamfara students. This achievement reflects the collective commitment of stakeholders to prioritize education and uphold the rights of students to access quality education without hindrance.
