The Akwa Ibom State Ministry of Education has given a directive that all unapproved private schools in the state must regularize their operations by August 31, 2026, or face closure.

The ministry's directive, which was signed by the Honourable Commissioner for Education, Professor Ubong Essien Umoh, stems from concerns over the increasing number of private schools operating without approval. This, according to the ministry, is in conflict with the ARISE Agenda of Governor Pastor Umo Eno's administration. The agenda prioritizes ensuring every child in the state has access to quality education in safe, standard, and approved learning environments.

Key Directives:

• All schools currently operating without ministry approval must obtain the necessary approval by August 31, 2026.
• Schools that fail to regularize their status by September 1, 2026, will be shut down and their operators prosecuted according to the law.
• Parents and guardians are advised to enroll their children only in schools that have been approved by the government. Lists of authorized schools are available at the Ministry of Education.

For more information, the Ministry of Education can be contacted at Block 10 Idongesit Nkanga Secretariat, Uyo, or via phone at 08022227164. The ministry's website, akwaibomstate.gov.ng, is also available for inquiries and updates.