Why Secondary Education in Nasarawa State Matters
Nasarawa State, located in Nigeria’s North-Central region, is fast becoming a serious player in Nigeria’s educational landscape. Top 10 Best Secondary Schools in Nasarawa State Its proximity to Abuja, the nation’s capital, has spurred investment in quality schools—both public and private. From science-focused government schools to elite private academies, Nasarawa is proving that great education doesn’t have to come from only Lagos or Abuja.
Parents in Lafia, Keffi, Akwanga, and beyond now have access to institutions that combine discipline, modern learning methods, and a strong moral foundation. Whether your goal is to prepare your child for top universities or to build character and leadership, this guide highlights the Top 10 Best Secondary Schools in Nasarawa State—ranked by academic performance, facilities, teacher quality, and overall reputation.
1. Federal Government Girls College (FGGC), Keana
Type: Federal Unity School
Known For: All-girls education, academic excellence, discipline
FGGC Keana stands tall as one of the leading federal unity colleges in Northern Nigeria. The school is well-known for its strong academic records, moral discipline, and multicultural student body. Students regularly perform excellently in WAEC and NECO examinations, while the school’s boarding facilities and security are top-notch.
FGGC Keana places special emphasis on science and leadership training for girls, helping students become confident, high-performing young women who excel nationally and internationally.

2. Faith Academy, Lafia
Type: Private (Christian Mission School)
Known For: Christian values, academic rigor, character building
Founded under the educational arm of Winners’ Chapel (Living Faith Church), Faith Academy Lafia combines spiritual development with academic distinction. The school maintains an excellent teacher-student ratio, ensuring personalized attention and strong moral mentorship.
Faith Academy’s students have consistently achieved impressive WAEC results, with alumni now excelling in universities across Nigeria and abroad. The serene learning environment and modern facilities make it one of the most sought-after private schools in Nasarawa State.

3. Government Science School, Lafia
Type: Government
Known For: STEM excellence, WAEC achievements
For parents prioritizing science and technology, Government Science School Lafia is a top contender. This state-owned institution has produced outstanding students in national science competitions and maintains a strong STEM curriculum.
The school’s well-equipped laboratories and dedicated teachers ensure practical learning experiences. Students at GSS Lafia have gone on to study engineering, medicine, and computer science at leading Nigerian universities.

4. Lafia East Secondary School
Type: Public
Known For: Community impact, academic improvement
Lafia East Secondary School represents the progress that Nasarawa’s public education system is making. Despite being government-funded, the school boasts impressive ICT facilities and improved WAEC pass rates in recent years.
It serves both rural and urban communities, providing affordable and accessible education. Teachers are passionate about student development, ensuring every learner—regardless of background—has the chance to succeed academically.

5. New Era Academy, Keffi
Type: Private
Known For: Small class size, tech-based education
New Era Academy Keffi takes a modern approach to education by integrating digital learning tools, smart classrooms, and personalized academic mentorship. The school has quickly risen to fame for its innovative teaching style and strong emphasis on critical thinking and digital literacy.
Parents who want a balance between affordability, structure, and quality education often consider New Era one of the best options in Keffi and the entire Nasarawa region.

6. Command Day Secondary School, Lafia
Type: Military/Government
Known For: Discipline, moral values, structured learning
Command Day Secondary School Lafia, managed by the Nigerian Army, provides a disciplined and secure academic environment. It combines military discipline with a strong focus on moral upbringing and academic success.
Students are known for their neatness, punctuality, and resilience—qualities that prepare them not only for exams but for life challenges. Parents who value structure, security, and strong values find Command Day an excellent choice.

7. St. Augustine’s College, Akwanga
Type: Catholic Mission
Known For: Faith, ethics, and academic consistency
St. Augustine’s College is one of the most respected Catholic secondary schools in Nasarawa State. It offers a rich blend of academic excellence and moral instruction based on Catholic values.
The school’s emphasis on discipline, hard work, and humility has produced some of the state’s finest graduates. It’s especially popular among parents in the Akwanga area who want an education grounded in ethics and academic strength.

8. Nasarawa State Model Science School, Andaha
Type: State Government
Known For: Science focus, boarding facilities, academic awards
The Model Science School in Andaha is a specialized institution established to promote science education in the state. It has a reputation for producing brilliant students who perform well in both WAEC and national science competitions.
The school offers boarding facilities and is equipped with laboratories for physics, chemistry, and biology—making it a hub for practical STEM education.

9. Solid Foundation International School, Keffi
Type: Private
Known For: ICT-driven learning, global teaching standards
Solid Foundation International School blends Nigerian and British curricula to prepare students for global competitiveness. It’s one of the few schools in Nasarawa with advanced ICT facilities and a focus on leadership development.
The school also emphasizes extracurricular engagement, from debate clubs to robotics and arts. This holistic approach ensures students develop both intellectually and socially.

10. Bright Future Academy, Lafia
Type: Private
Known For: Affordability, community impact, steady improvement
Bright Future Academy offers a perfect balance between affordability and quality. While it’s not as luxurious as some elite schools, it has a proven record of steady improvement in WAEC and NECO results.
The school is ideal for parents looking for dependable education at a modest price. Its teachers focus on character development, public speaking, and exam preparation—giving students a well-rounded learning experience.

What Parents Should Look for in Nasarawa Schools
Before enrolling your child in any secondary school, take time to assess these key factors:
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WAEC/NECO/JAMB performance history
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Teacher qualification and commitment
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ICT and science lab availability
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Security and boarding conditions
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Moral and religious alignment with your family
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Alumni success stories
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Extracurricular opportunities
These details can make the difference between an average education and an exceptional one.
Quick Summary Table
| Rank | School Name | Type | Known For |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | FGGC Keana | Federal | Discipline, academic excellence |
| 2 | Faith Academy Lafia | Private | Christian values, high WAEC scores |
| 3 | Govt Science School Lafia | Government | STEM-focused learning |
| 4 | Lafia East Secondary | Public | Community development |
| 5 | New Era Academy Keffi | Private | Tech-based modern teaching |
| 6 | Command Day Lafia | Military | Discipline and structure |
| 7 | St. Augustine’s Akwanga | Catholic | Faith and morals |
| 8 | Model Science School Andaha | State | Boarding & science innovation |
| 9 | Solid Foundation Keffi | Private | Global standards & ICT |
| 10 | Bright Future Academy | Private | Affordable excellence |
Final Thoughts
Nasarawa State may not yet rival Lagos in media attention, but its education sector is quietly thriving. From elite private institutions to government science schools and faith-based academies, the state is producing students who excel nationally and internationally.
Whether your priority is affordability, moral training, or modern technology integration, the top 10 best secondary schools in Nasarawa State have something for every parent’s goal.
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