Cross River Shuts Down 36 Unapproved Schools

The Cross River State Government has closed 36 unapproved schools operating without registration or official approval across three local government areas. The decision followed an inspection by the state’s task force on illegal schools, set up earlier this month to monitor compliance with education standards.

Confirming the development in Calabar on Tuesday, the Commissioner for Education, Professor Stephen Odey, described the situation as unfortunate, stressing that some individuals were exploiting parents by running unregistered schools.

Task Force Closes Unauthorised Schools Across Cross River

Professor Odey explained that the enforcement exercise covered the Calabar, Ikom, and Ogoja education zones. He said the action was part of government efforts to ensure that only approved schools meeting required standards are allowed to operate in the state.

According to the report released by the ministry, 16 schools were shut in Calabar, 10 in Ikom, and 10 in Ogoja. All were found to be running without government approval or proper accreditation.

“We have begun full-scale enforcement across the state to sanitise the system and restore confidence in the education sector. Only schools that have met the required standards will continue to operate,” Odey said.

He reaffirmed that the ministry would continue its inspections until all unapproved schools are either properly registered or permanently closed.

Government Warns Parents and School Operators

Professor Odey advised parents and guardians to verify the approval status of schools before enrolling their children. He warned that the Cross River Ministry of Education would extend the enforcement drive to all 18 local government areas.

“This exercise will continue until every illegal school is regularised or shut down. We are determined to protect the integrity of education in Cross River State,” Odey added.

He urged school proprietors to comply with registration guidelines, noting that the government’s goal is not to disrupt learning but to ensure that all pupils and students receive quality education in a safe and approved environment.

Closing Note on Cross River Education Enforcement

The Cross River Government’s move reflects its ongoing effort to strengthen the education system and protect families from unapproved operators. The ministry reiterated that enforcement would remain consistent until every school in the state meets the proper standards for operation.