The Cross River State Commissioner for Education, Senator Professor Stephen Odey, on Wednesday, October 8, 2025, inaugurated the Taskforce for Shutting Down all illegal Schools operating across the state. The inauguration, which took place at the Ministry of Education Headquarters, Calabar, marks the commencement of a statewide exercise aimed at identifying and closing all unapproved schools across the 18 Local Government Areas of Cross River State.
The Taskforce, headed by the Commissioner, was constituted following the approval of His Excellency, Governor Bassey Otu, and the State Executive Council.
Addressing members of the Taskforce — which comprises Directors in the Ministry of Education, Coordinating Supervisory Directors (CSDs), Education Secretaries, and a representative of the National Association of Proprietors of Private Schools (NAPPS) — Professor Odey charged them to carry out their assignment with diligence, fairness, and integrity. He emphasized that the Ministry would not tolerate any form of compromise or favouritism in the course of their operations.
The Commissioner further cautioned proprietors of illegal schools who continue to operate in defiance of government directives, warning that such institutions would face strict legal consequences and sanctions. “The State Government remains committed to ensuring that all schools in Cross River operate within approved standards to guarantee quality education for every child,” he stated.
The inauguration was attended by senior officials of the Ministry, Local Government Education Authorities, and representatives of private school proprietors. The Taskforce is expected to commence immediate enforcement visits statewide to ensure full compliance with government directives.
By SaintAugustine Adula Odey
