The Rivers State Government has directed all private schools operating without official approval to immediately commence the process of obtaining government approval or cease operations, as part of efforts to strengthen quality assurance and regulatory compliance in the education sector.

The directive was issued by the Rivers State Commissioner for Education, Dr. Peters Nwagor, during a stakeholders’ meeting with private school proprietors and administrators held at the Government Girls Secondary School (GGSS) Conference Hall, Rumuokwuta, Port Harcourt.

Speaking at the meeting, Nwagor commended private school operators for their contributions to educational development in the state, noting that their investments have complemented government efforts in expanding access to quality education.

However, he expressed concern over the increasing number of educational institutions operating without official approval and outside established regulatory frameworks, describing the situation as a threat to educational standards and the integrity of the state’s education system.

According to the commissioner, compliance with statutory requirements is essential to ensuring quality learning outcomes, safeguarding pupils and students, and maintaining confidence in the education sector.

He therefore directed all proprietors whose schools have not received formal approval from the Ministry of Education to begin the regularisation process without delay or discontinue operations.

“Private schools operating without official approval must immediately commence the process of obtaining approval from the Ministry of Education or cease operations,” Nwagor stated..

He further warned schools owing renewal fees to settle all outstanding obligations promptly, stressing that the ministry would no longer tolerate non-compliance with regulatory requirements.

The commissioner also directed schools operating below prescribed standards to urgently improve their infrastructure, personnel, and operational procedures to meet approved benchmarks.

He said the administration of Governor Siminalayi Fubara remains committed to transforming the education sector through strategic reforms, improved infrastructure, strengthened quality assurance mechanisms, digital innovation, and enhanced educational governance.

Nwagor described education as a critical driver of sustainable development, economic growth, social stability, and national advancement, adding that government would continue to implement policies aimed at improving educational standards across the state.

 

Also speaking at the meeting, the Director of State Quality Assurance Services (SEQAS), Dr. Chinedu Wordu, urged proprietors of unapproved schools to take immediate steps towards obtaining the necessary approvals.

Wordu warned that operators who fail to comply with the directive risk sanctions from the ministry, emphasizing that adherence to regulatory standards is non-negotiable.

 

Meanwhile, the Director of Examinations and Records, Mr. Gideon Uboh, informed school proprietors that the 2026 Basic Education Certificate Examination (BECE) would commence on July 1, urging schools to make adequate preparations for the exercise.

The meeting provided an opportunity for education stakeholders to discuss compliance issues, quality assurance measures, and strategies for improving educational service delivery across Rivers State.