Kano State has emerged as the top-performing state in the 2026 National Examinations Council (NECO) examination, with 74,413 candidates recording at least five credits, including English Language and Mathematics.

Lagos State came second with 72,496 candidates, while Oyo State ranked third with 55,543 candidates.

The result means Kano has maintained the top position for the second consecutive year, after recording the highest number of candidates with five credits, including English and Mathematics, in the 2025 NECO examination.

Reacting to the result, Kano State Governor Abba Yusuf congratulated the students, teachers, parents and other stakeholders for their efforts.

The governor, in a statement issued by his spokesperson, Sanusi Bature, said the performance showed that the state’s investment in education was yielding positive results.

Yusuf said his administration would continue to support the education sector through improved facilities, teacher recruitment and training, scholarships and assistance for indigent students.

He disclosed that the state government spent more than N4.4 billion in 2026 to sponsor candidates for the Senior Secondary School Certificate Examination, particularly students from less privileged backgrounds.

According to him, the government’s education programmes also include classroom renovation, provision of learning materials, school uniforms and other measures aimed at improving the quality of education.

The governor said the latest NECO performance was a reflection of the collective efforts of students, teachers, parents and other stakeholders in the state.

He added that the administration would continue to invest in education to equip young people with the knowledge and skills needed for higher education, employment, innovation and leadership.

(NAN)