The Cross River State Commissioner for Education, Senator Professor Stephen Adi Odey, Esq., has on Thursday, June 18, 2026, called on Education Secretaries, Coordinating Supervisory Directors, and key stakeholders in the education sector to uphold the highest standards of accountability, transparency, and commitment in order to sustain the remarkable progress recorded in the state’s education system.
Speaking during a strategic meeting with Education Secretaries and Directors at the Ministry of Education Headquarters in Calabar, Professor Odey stressed the importance of teamwork, effective communication, and collective responsibility in driving the Ministry’s vision for quality education across the state.
The Commissioner noted that Education Secretaries serve as the Ministry’s representatives at the grassroots level and must therefore ensure proper supervision of schools, prompt reporting of developments, and strict adherence to government policies.
“You are the eyes of the Ministry in your respective local government areas. The information you provide helps shape our decisions and interventions. Therefore, you must remain proactive, diligent, and committed to your responsibilities,” he said.
Professor Odey reaffirmed the Ministry’s commitment to improving educational administration and service delivery, revealing that approval has been secured for the prompt release of examination results and the timely issuance of certificates to students. He explained that the initiative is aimed at eliminating delays and ensuring that learners receive their academic credentials without unnecessary setbacks.
In a move to further support pupils and parents, the Commissioner announced plans to introduce free testimonials for Primary Six pupils, while also ensuring the production and distribution of Junior Secondary School Certificates immediately after the release of examination results.
On curriculum development, Senator Odey disclosed that the Ministry is collaborating with the National Educational Research and Development Council (NERDC) to harmonize and update the curriculum for schools across Cross River State ahead of the next academic session.
“We are determined to provide our schools with authentic and updated curriculum materials that will enhance teaching and learning and align with national educational standards,” he stated.
The Commissioner also expressed concern over reports of illegal levies being collected in some schools and warned that such practices would not be tolerated. He directed Education Secretaries and school administrators to ensure strict compliance with approved government guidelines and fee structures.
Commending stakeholders for the successful conduct of examinations across the state, Professor Odey urged them to sustain the momentum by ensuring timely collation, marking, and submission of results to facilitate prompt release. He further reiterated the Ministry’s directive on approved school closing hours, warning that schools operating beyond the stipulated 2:00 p.m. closing time would face appropriate sanctions.
The meeting also reviewed strategies for strengthening quality assurance mechanisms, improving educational infrastructure, enhancing project monitoring, and ensuring effective distribution and tracking of instructional materials supplied to schools under various intervention programmes.
Senator Odey concluded by urging all stakeholders to remain focused on delivering measurable results that will positively impact learners and strengthen the state’s education sector.
“Let us continue to work together, remain accountable, and focus on delivering quality education that will benefit our children and future generations. The progress we seek can only be achieved through dedication, collaboration, and a shared commitment to excellence,” the Commissioner said.