Obi Visits NECO Unannounced, Pays Exam Fees For 148 Inmates

The Anambra State Coordinator of the National Examinations Council (NECO), Mrs. Emilia Njoku, has expressed surprise at the unannounced visit of Mr. Peter Obi to the NECO State Office in Awka on Friday.

Mrs. Njoku mentioned that the staff were initially curious when a convoy of vehicles arrived, only to discover that Obi, uninvited and without prior notice, had come to present a cheque covering NECO examination fees for 148 inmates in correctional centres across Anambra State.

Addressing the staff, Obi explained that representatives of inmates from the Awka, Onitsha, Nnewi, and Aguata (Ekwulobia) correctional centers had previously visited him in Onitsha to share their plight.

Although NECO had approved their participation in the examinations, a letter of undertaking from a guarantor was necessary to facilitate payment of the fees. Obi disclosed that he immediately provided the letter guaranteeing payment.

He added that after sharing the intervention on social media, the Nigerian Friendship Association, USA, through their non-profit foundation, the Friendship Association Education Assistance, Inc., reached out to him to express their desire to assist.
He noted that he was deeply inspired by their generosity, emphasising that collective goodwill can restore dignity and open doors to opportunities—not only for this year but also for future candidates.

Regarding the purpose of his visit, Obi stated, “It was to formally present the cheque.” The total payment, including fees and logistics, amounted to ₦4,741,400.

Mrs. Njoku acknowledged that previous appeals to various individuals and organisations had been unsuccessful, and she was surprised that Obi voluntarily wrote the undertaking and settled the full amount.

Professor Chinyere Stella Okunna, who accompanied Obi, described his act as noble and deserving of the highest commendation.

A total of 148 inmates benefited from the intervention: 50 from Awka, 36 from Onitsha, 25 from Nnewi, and 37 from Aguata.

Obi expressed that he was deeply moved by the appeal and emphasised that education remains a critical tool for rehabilitation and reintegration.

Reflecting on his recent visit to California State University, Sacramento, where he observed rehabilitation-focused programs for disadvantaged and formerly incarcerated individuals, he reiterated that correctional centers should function as true centers of reform, with education at the core of their mission.