Kano State has emerged as the best-performing state in the 2025 National Examinations Council (NECO) Senior School Certificate Examination (SSCE) for internal candidates, marking a historic milestone for the state’s educational sector.
The Registrar of NECO, Prof. Ibrahim Wushishi, disclosed this on Wednesday during a press briefing at the council’s headquarters in Minna, Niger State.
According to the released figures, Kano State led the country with 68,159 candidates—representing 5.02 per cent of the national total—who obtained five credits and above, including Mathematics and English Language. This feat placed the state at the top of the 2025 NECO SSCE performance index.
Wushishi added that a total of 1,358,339 candidates sat the June/July examination, with 818,492 candidates (60.26 per cent) securing five credits and above, including English and Mathematics. He further noted that 1,144,496 candidates, representing 84.26 per cent, recorded at least five credits in any subject combination.
Trailing Kano in the performance chart were Lagos and Oyo states. Lagos came second with 67,007 candidates, while Oyo placed third with 48,742 candidates.
Kano’s achievement comes against the backdrop of sweeping education reforms introduced by Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf’s administration.
Reacting to the development, Governor Yusuf, through his spokesperson, Sunusi Bature Dawakin Tofa, described the results as “a reflection of the tireless work and vision” driving his government’s education policies.
“I am elated by this outstanding performance. It is a testament to the fact that when we prioritise education, invest in our teachers, and ensure access to quality learning, the results speak for themselves,” the governor said. “This success belongs to every teacher, student, and parent who has supported our reforms.”
Education experts have also lauded the state’s achievement. A Kano-based analyst, Dr. Amina Lawal, said: “Kano’s success in the NECO exams is a clear demonstration of the power of visionary leadership and sustained investment in education. The state has set a new benchmark for other regions to follow.”
