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The Akwa Ibom State Ministry of Education has given operators of unapproved and unauthorised private schools in the state up to August 31, 2026, to regularise their operations or risk closure and prosecution.
The directive followed concerns over the proliferation of private schools operating without approval from the ministry, a development the government said could undermine efforts to provide quality and safe learning environments for children.
In a statement signed by the Commissioner for Education, Prof. Ubong Essien Umoh, made available to newsmen in Uyo on Tuesday, the ministry said the move was part of efforts to ensure that every child in Akwa Ibom has access to standard education in approved and properly regulated institutions.
Umoh said the action was in line with Governor Umo Eno’s ARISE Agenda, which places emphasis on improving the quality of education and safeguarding the future of children in the state.
“All schools operating without approval from the Ministry of Education are given up to 31st August, 2026 to regularise their operations,” the commissioner stated.
He warned that any school that fails to comply with the directive by September 1, 2026, would be shut down, sealed and made to face prosecution in accordance with existing laws.
The commissioner further advised parents and guardians to enrol their children and wards only in government-approved schools, stressing that the list of authorised schools was available at the Ministry of Education for verification.
The ministry reiterated its commitment to sanitising the education sector and ensuring that schools operating in the state meet required standards for effective teaching, learning and child safety.
