NECO Launches First UK Exam Centre for Nigerians in Diaspora

The National Examinations Council (NECO) has taken a historic step toward expanding educational access for Nigerians abroad with the establishment of its first examination centre in London, United Kingdom.

The new centre, unveiled during the Education Matters Conference UK 2025, marks a major milestone in the Council’s efforts to extend its services beyond Nigeria’s borders. According to NECO’s Registrar and Chief Executive, Professor Dantani Ibrahim Wushishi, the initiative aims to give Nigerian students and adult learners in the UK a credible alternative to complete their secondary education or obtain equivalent qualifications.

Professor Wushishi, represented by officials of the Council, explained that the move aligns with the Federal Government’s vision to make education inclusive and globally competitive. “Our goal is to provide credible and accessible examination opportunities for Nigerians residing abroad, while promoting the global recognition of NECO certificates,” he said.

The London centre, established in partnership with Barnfield Education Ltd, will cater to Nigerians who face difficulties integrating into the British education system or completing the General Certificate of Secondary Education (GCSE).

It will serve as a bridge for learners seeking academic or vocational advancement through Nigerian-standard examinations.

NECO’s Acting Director of Information and Public Relations, Azeez Sani, in a statement, disclosed that the Council now conducts examinations in seven countries, with plans to open additional centres in Egypt and Burkina Faso. He added that NECO certificates are already accepted by 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.

In his goodwill message, Nigeria’s Minister of Education, Dr. Tunji Alausa, commended NECO for what he described as a bold and inclusive stride toward harnessing the potential of the Nigerian diaspora. “This initiative ensures that no Nigerian child is left behind, whether at home or abroad,” Alausa said.

Similarly, the Director of BEP Education, Dr. John Ibanga, noted that the centre would provide a viable route for Nigerian students who struggle to fit into the UK’s education system. “Many Nigerian learners face barriers within the British structure. The NECO SSCE Centre offers a recognised pathway for them to progress academically,” he stated.

Officials of the Nigerian High Commission in London also pledged support for the project, describing it as a timely move that reinforces Nigeria’s commitment to diaspora engagement and educational inclusion.

The London examination centre is expected to begin full operations in the coming months, giving Nigerians in the UK a new opportunity to obtain qualifications recognised both nationally and internationally.