RismadarVoice Reporters
June 25, 2026
The Rivers State Government has directed all private schools operating without official approval to immediately begin the process of obtaining approval from the Ministry of Education or cease operations.
The directive was issued by the 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 in Rumuokwuta, Port Harcourt.
Dr Nwagor commended private school operators for supporting the growth of education in the state, noting that they play a vital role in complementing government efforts to provide accessible and quality education.
He reiterated the state government’s commitment to improving educational standards through reforms, infrastructure development, quality assurance, digital innovation and stronger educational governance under the administration of Governor Siminalayi Fubara.
The commissioner, however, expressed concern over the increasing number of schools operating without approval and outside established regulatory guidelines.
According to him, compliance with statutory requirements is essential to ensure quality learning outcomes and safeguard the integrity of the education system.
He directed all unapproved private schools to immediately commence the regularisation process or discontinue operations.
Dr Nwagor also ordered schools with outstanding renewal fees to settle all arrears without delay, while institutions operating below prescribed standards were directed to upgrade their facilities, personnel and operational procedures to meet approved require1ments or face closure.
Also speaking at the meeting, the Director of State Quality Assurance Services (SEQAS), Dr Chinedu Wordu, urged proprietors operating without formal approval to begin the approval process immediately or risk sanctions from the government.
Meanwhile, the Director of Examinations and Records, Mr Gideon Uboh, informed proprietors that the 2026 Basic Education Certificate Examination (BECE) will commence on July 1.
