Assessment of Guidance and Counselling Services Utilisation in Federal Government Colleges in the North Central Zone of Nigeria

Federal Government Colleges (Unity Schools) in Nigeria are mandated to provide structured guidance and counselling services to students, yet evidence suggests that utilisation of these services remains low across many institutions. This study assessed the level of utilisation of guidance and counselling services in Federal Government Colleges across the North Central geopolitical zone of Nigeria. A descriptive survey design was adopted, with a sample of 460 students drawn from eight Federal Government Colleges in Benue, Kogi, and Plateau States. A researcher-constructed questionnaire validated by guidance experts was used as the primary instrument. Data were analysed using frequency counts and analysis of variance. Findings indicated that personal and social counselling was the most utilised service category, while educational and vocational guidance services were significantly underutilised. Stigma associated with visiting a counsellor's office, inadequate awareness of available services, and insufficient appointment systems were identified as major barriers. Students in mixed-sex schools demonstrated slightly higher utilisation rates compared to those in single-sex institutions. The study concluded that service design and communication strategies in Unity School guidance units require substantial review. Recommendations included mandatory orientation programmes for new students, improved counsellor-student ratios, and the creation of anonymous service access channels. Relevant federal education authorities were advised to prioritise infrastructure and staffing improvements in counselling units across the zone. Keywords: guidance utilisation, Federal Government Colleges, North Central, counselling services, secondary school.