Akwa Ibom closes more than 326 unapproved schools

Akwa Ibom State Government has shut more than 326 schools operating illegally across the state and closed more than 15 others during a new enforcement exercise. Education Commissioner Ubong Umoh announced the figures at a ministerial media briefing in Uyo. He said the ongoing operation targeted schools that failed to meet government standards.

The affected schools included institutions operating without approval, breaching approval conditions or using unauthorised premises. Inspectors found some schools in churches, residential buildings, bedrooms, flats and makeshift classrooms. Umoh said some teachers had only primary or secondary qualifications.

In other cases, all classes from Primary One to Primary Six were being taught in a single classroom. The state began the wider enforcement operation in September and October 2025 after giving proprietors time to regularise their schools. Proprietors who reopen closed schools are handed to police for prosecution.

Umoh urged parents to verify approval before enrolling children and to report unauthorised levies. He said public schools were being equipped under the state’s free and compulsory education policy. The government said 199 primary and junior secondary schools had been rehabilitated over three years, while 406,450 teaching and learning materials had been distributed.

It also reported grants for students with disabilities and ₦1.6bn in bursary releases.