PORT HARCOURT – The Rivers State Government has announced a major enforcement operation targeting unapproved private schools, with closure exercises scheduled to commence across the state on June 15, 2026.
The move, coordinated by the State Quality Assurance Services (SEQAS) under the Ministry of Education, is aimed at sanitising the education sector and ensuring that all private schools comply with established regulations and quality standards.
In a public notice signed by the Commissioner for Education, Peters Nwagor, the government warned that any private school operating without official registration and approval from the ministry would be shut down.
The notice also stated that schools failing to meet prescribed operational standards under the state’s Private Schools Law and other relevant regulations would face immediate closure.
Approved Schools Ordered to Clear Outstanding Fees
The government further directed all approved private schools with outstanding annual renewal fees to settle their arrears without delay.
According to the ministry, only schools with valid approval certificates and up-to-date payment records will be permitted to continue operations after the enforcement exercise begins.
Move to Improve Education Standards
Officials said the statewide crackdown forms part of broader efforts to strengthen compliance, improve educational quality, and protect students from substandard learning environments.
The Ministry of Education emphasized that the exercise is designed to ensure that all schools operating within Rivers State meet the minimum standards required for delivering quality education.
Proprietors Urged to Comply
School owners and members of the public seeking clarification have been advised to visit the State Quality Assurance Services Office located at Government Girls Secondary School Rumuokwuta or contact the Director of SEQAS, Chinedu Wordu.
The Rivers State Government reiterated its commitment to safeguarding the future of children through quality education, stressing that compliance with educational standards remains non-negotiable.
The June 15 enforcement exercise is expected to significantly impact unregistered and non-compliant private schools, as authorities intensify efforts to raise educational standards across Rivers State.
