In a landmark announcement, the Federal Government has unveiled the results of the 2024 National Common Entrance Examination (NCEE), which paves the way for admissions into JSS1 of the esteemed Federal Unity Colleges. The announcement was made by the Minister of State for Education, Dr. Yusuf Sununu, during a news conference in Abuja on Tuesday.
Dr. Sununu revealed that the highest score achieved in the examination was an impressive 203 out of a possible 210, secured by a standout candidate. “Of the 71,291 candidates who registered, 66,931 sat for the examination, while 4,360 were absent,” the minister disclosed, emphasizing the significance of these figures in the context of nationwide educational standards.
Highlighting the performance spectrum, Dr. Sununu noted, “Out of the maximum obtainable score of 210, one candidate obtained the highest score of 203, while 13 candidates obtained the lowest score of one.” This range underscores the diverse academic abilities across the candidates.
However, the minister also addressed the issue of examination malpractice, reporting that 52 candidates were caught in fraudulent activities. “An unprecedented number of candidates from Lagos State and Rivers State were involved in examination malpractice,” he said, underscoring the ongoing challenges in maintaining the integrity of the examination process.
For the Federal Government Academy (FGA) examination, which runs parallel to the NCEE, 2,649 candidates registered, with 2,336 candidates sitting for the test. The highest score in this category was 180, while the lowest was five, reflecting a different performance range from the NCEE.
Dr. Sununu reiterated the admission criteria for Federal Unity Colleges, stating, “Admission requirements are 60 percent merit, 30 percent equality of state, and 10 percent exigency.” He charged the Senior Secondary Education Department to ensure the admission processes were concluded promptly and in line with these criteria.
The minister also addressed the broader appeal of Federal Unity Colleges, affirming, “Our Federal Unity Colleges have become the first port of call for most parents in the country. The government is committed to enhancing infrastructural development, improving feeding programs, and ensuring high-quality teaching standards.”
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reported that the NCEE was conducted on June 1, 2024, across Nigeria, Benin Republic, and Togo, marking a significant logistical achievement for the National Examination Council (NECO).
This year’s results not only highlight individual academic excellence but also bring attention to the systemic efforts required to maintain and improve the standards of education within the country’s unity schools. As parents and students await the admission processes to unfold, the government’s pledge to continually enhance educational infrastructure and quality remains a beacon of hope for the future.
PIONEER NEWS 