Senator Sunday Karimi Secures Major Funding for Educational Infrastructure in Kogi West
In a significant move to bolster educational access, Senator Sunday Karimi, representing Kogi West, has successfully influenced the allocation of approximately N1 billion in the 2026 appropriation for the establishment of three new computer-based training (CBT) centers within his senatorial district. This initiative aims to ensure that constituents have improved facilities for critical examinations such as the Joint Admission and Matriculation Board (JAMB) and the West African Examinations Council (WAEC).
Building on Past Successes
This development follows the recent success of the 288-seater CBT center at Titcombe College in Egbe, which was facilitated by Senator Karimi in partnership with the college's alumni association. Over 1,200 candidates successfully sat for the 2026 JAMB examinations at this center last week, demonstrating the effectiveness of such facilities in supporting educational endeavors.
Details of the New CBT Centers
During an interview in Abuja, Senator Karimi disclosed that the three new centers are earmarked for specific locations across Kogi West. The proposed sites include:
- Muslim Community Secondary School in Lokogoma, Lokoja
- Government Science School in Iyara
- Okutadudu Comprehensive College in Odo Ere
These centers will be established in Lokoja, Ijumu, and Yagba West Local Government Areas, respectively. Each facility is designed to accommodate 275 candidates and will be equipped with state-of-the-art resources, including:
- 275 laptops for examination purposes
- Reliable Internet connectivity services
- Close Circuit Television (CCTV) cameras for security
- Solar energy systems to power the centers
- Standby generating sets as backup power sources
- Toilet facilities that meet JAMB requirements
The projects involve the rehabilitation and reconstruction of existing structures to transform them into modern CBT testing centers tailored to meet the stringent standards set by examination bodies.
Timely Implementation and Additional Efforts
Senator Karimi emphasized his commitment to ensuring the timely delivery of these projects. He stated that he is already in discussions with contractors to proceed without waiting for fund releases from the federal government. This proactive approach aims to have the facilities ready and approved for the 2027 JAMB and WAEC examinations.
Drawing from the experience gained in establishing the Titcombe College CBT center, efforts will be focused on ensuring a seamless delivery of the three new facilities. These will be strategically located in the Kabba/Bunu/Ijumu, Lokoja/Kotonkarfe, and Yagba Federal Constituencies to maximize accessibility for students across the senatorial district.
Personal Commitment to a Fourth Center
In addition to the three centers funded through the budget, Senator Karimi, who serves as Chairman of the Senate Services Committee, has pledged to personally fund a fourth CBT center. This additional facility is planned for ECWA Secondary School in Mopa, located in the Mopamuro Local Government Area. He intends to collaborate with the local community to bring this project to fruition, further expanding educational infrastructure in the region.
This comprehensive initiative underscores Senator Karimi's dedication to enhancing educational opportunities and supporting the academic aspirations of his constituents in Kogi State.
