October 10, 2025
The Cross River State Commissioner for Education, Senator Professor Stephen Odey, has intensified efforts toward the full implementation of the state’s ongoing education reforms with the inauguration of the Ministerial and Local Government Taskforce on Education Reform Implementation and Compliance in Ikom and Ogoja zones.
The inauguration, held on Friday, marks another decisive step by the Ministry of Education to strengthen the enforcement of the state’s recently introduced education policies. The newly inaugurated Taskforce is mandated to ensure compliance with these reforms, aimed at improving learning outcomes, enhancing school welfare, and upholding standards across all public and private schools in the state.
Speaking during the inauguration ceremony, Professor Odey noted that members of the Taskforce were carefully selected based on merit, integrity, and proven dedication to service. He reminded them that although their service is voluntary, their contribution remains critical to the transformation of the education sector.
The Commissioner commended His Excellency, Governor Bassey Otu, for his visionary leadership and unwavering commitment to education, especially through initiatives such as the establishment of the University of Education and Entrepreneurship in Akamkpa, and the consistent payment of WAEC registration fees for thousands of students across the state.
Senator Odey also outlined the key responsibilities of the Taskforce, which include:
*Enforcing school operating hours, ensuring all schools close by 2:00 p.m.
*Protecting learners from excessive classroom hours.
*Ensuring teachers and schools prioritize academic activities over custodial duties.
*Monitoring and reporting reform implementation within their respective zones.
*Receiving and collating compliance feedback from pupils, students, teachers, parents, and the general public.
“Submitting comprehensive weekly reports to the Ministry of Education.
The Commissioner warned that any school found violating the new directives will face appropriate sanctions. He further cautioned members of the Taskforce against compromise or misconduct, emphasizing that the Ministry operates a zero-tolerance policy toward corruption and extortion.
“This is not a place to make money,” he stated firmly, assuring the committee of the Ministry’s full support in the discharge of their duties.
The event concluded with the formal inauguration of the Taskforce by Senator Professor Stephen Odey, who charged all stakeholders to work collaboratively to achieve the goals of the ongoing education reforms in Cross River State.