February 18, 2026
The Cross River State Government has intensified its ongoing clampdown on illegal schools operating across the state, reaffirming its commitment to sanitizing the education sector and ensuring a safe learning environment for pupils.
The Commissioner for Education, Sen. Professor Stephen Odey, Esq., declared that the closure of unapproved schools “has come to stay,” stressing that the enforcement exercise will continue across all parts of the state. He explained that any school operating without an Authority to Operate (ATO), or lacking a safe and conducive learning environment, will face immediate closure.
According to the Commissioner, several of the affected schools were operating in environments deemed unsuitable for young children, with inadequate facilities and poor infrastructure. He warned that any school found reopening after being officially sealed will be penalized in line with existing state regulations.
Professor Odey further emphasized that the administration of Governor Bassey Edet Otu remains firmly committed to delivering quality education to every child in Cross River State. He noted that the Governor’s vision for the education sector includes strict enforcement of standards and the elimination of illegal operators.
Schools Shut Down in the Latest Exercise
As part of the latest enforcement drive, thirteen (13) schools were sealed across the following Local Government Areas:
Ikom Zonal Directorate / Ikom LGEA
- Esti-P Nursery/Primary School, Old Army Barracks, Ikom
- Premier Kids Academy, Adijinkpor, Ikom
- Kiddies Prime Nursery/Primary School, Okangha
- Bright Tomorrow Nursery/Primary School, Sweet Mother Street, Ikom
- Solid Rock Academy, Akam, Ikom
- Godswill Model Academy, Sweet Mother Street, Ikom
Yakurr LGA
- Excellent Base School, Ugep
Rescue Comprehensive College, Ugep - St. Martins Foundation Secondary School, Ugep
- Crown Star Academy, Ekori
Etung LGEA
- St. Luke’s Anglican Nursery/Primary School, Etomi
- Global Academy Nursery/Primary School, Agbokim Waterfall
- God’s Heritage Nursery/Primary/Secondary School, Ajassor Mission
The state government reiterated that the exercise is not aimed at punishing genuine investors in education but at protecting children and upholding minimum standards. School proprietors have been encouraged to regularize their operations and obtain the necessary approvals to avoid sanctions.
The Ministry of Education assured residents that the enforcement drive will continue until all schools across the state meet the required operational standards.