NECO Opens New Examination Centre in London

The National Examinations Council (NECO) has opened a new examination centre in London, United Kingdom, expanding its reach to Nigerians in the diaspora. The initiative forms part of NECO’s global mission to provide credible assessment opportunities to students and adult learners abroad.

The new centre was unveiled during the Education Matters Conference UK 2025, by NECO’s Registrar and Chief Executive, Prof. Dantani Ibrahim Wushishi, in partnership with Barnfield Education Ltd.

According to Prof. Wushishi, the project aims to support Nigerian students and adult learners in the UK who have been unable to complete their secondary education or obtain equivalent qualifications. He added that the initiative aligns with the Federal Government’s education policy promoting inclusivity and global access to learning.

Global Expansion of NECO Examination Centres

Prof. Wushishi described the London NECO centre as a strategic step to extend the Council’s reach beyond Nigeria. The Council now conducts examinations in seven countries, including Saudi Arabia, with new centres awaiting accreditation in Egypt and Burkina Faso.

He explained that the London centre would help Nigerians abroad gain educational recognition while reinforcing the credibility of NECO certificates. The certificates are already accepted by several international universities such as Birmingham City University and Leeds Trinity University in the UK, as well as institutions in the United States, Canada, India, China, and Russia.

Support from the Ministry of Education and Nigerian High Commission

The Minister of Education, Dr Tunji Alausa, praised NECO’s decision to open a UK-based centre, describing it as a practical move to ensure no Nigerian learner is excluded from national education opportunities. He emphasised that this step supports the Ministry’s broader goal of engaging the diaspora in Nigeria’s educational growth.

In the same statement, Dr John Ibanga, Director of BEP Education and NECO’s UK partner, said the centre offers an alternative pathway for Nigerian students in the UK, particularly those who face difficulties within the British education system or cannot access the General Certificate of Secondary Education (GCSE).

He stated that the new NECO SSCE centre will give both young learners and adults a recognised route for academic or vocational advancement.

During a visit to the Nigerian High Commission in London, Prof. Wushishi briefed the Mission on the accreditation process for the new centre, noting that the UK remains a key hub for expanding educational opportunities for Nigerians overseas.

The Head of Political Affairs, Ambassador Eche Abu-Obe, commended NECO’s expansion, describing it as a timely initiative that aligns with Nigeria’s vision for educational inclusivity. He reaffirmed the Mission’s readiness to collaborate with NECO to promote Nigeria’s educational objectives in the United Kingdom.

NECO Strengthening Education for Nigerians Abroad

The establishment of the London centre underscores NECO’s commitment to quality education and equal access for Nigerians everywhere. By creating opportunities for students and professionals abroad, NECO continues to reinforce its global reputation for credible examinations and inclusive education.