Rivers to Shut Down Unapproved Private Schools by June 15

Itode Akari

PORT HARCOURT – The Rivers State Administration, via the Department of Education, has revealed intentions to launch a citywide operation targeting unauthorized private educational institutions throughout the region, starting on Monday, June 15, 2026. This information was shared in an open communication document signed by the Education Commissioner, Dr. Peters Nwagor, and released by the Head of Information and Public Relations, Tochi Abinye Pepple, on Wednesday. The department highlighted that this initiative seeks to enhance quality control and guarantee conformity with educational guidelines within the state. As per the declaration, private schools functioning without authorization or formal recognition from the Ministry, along with those not meeting necessary academic and infrastructure requirements, will face closure according to the rules outlined in the State's Private Educational Institutions Act and relevant laws. Dr. Nwagor mentioned that this action aims to provide students in Rivers State access to high-quality education in secure and suitable learning settings. He further instructed all licensed private schools still owing annual renewal charges to clear these debts promptly, cautioning that solely establishments possessing current licenses and updated financial records would be permitted to remain active. The Commissioner reiterated the government’s dedication to maintaining standards in the educational field, stating that this step is meant to protect student interests while enhancing management practices among privately run schools throughout the area. He encouraged owners who require more details to go to the State Quality Assurance Services (SEQAS) office located inside the Government Girls' Secondary School (GGSS), Rumuokwuta, Port Harcourt, or reach out directly to the Director of SEQAS, Dr. Chinedu Wordu. The Department affirmed that this regulatory activity represents one component of wider initiatives undertaken by the Rivers State Government to elevate educational excellence and enforce rigorous operational norms throughout the state.

Supplied by SyndiGate Media Inc. ( Syndigate.info ).

UBTH CMD Engages NNPC in Partnership Talks

The Head of Medicine at the University of Benin Teaching Hospital (UBTH), Professor Idia Ize-Iyamu, visited the Nigerian National Petroleum Company’s Exploration and Production division in Benin City, Edo State, on Tuesday, to explore possible partnerships.

While visiting, Professor Ize-Iyamu highlighted UBTH's dependability in delivering prompt, specialized, and patient-focused care to business entities and their staff.

The CMD also highlighted the hospital's major accomplishments and progress throughout the years, suggesting joint initiatives between UBTH and NNPC regarding the provision of high-quality medical services.

Mr. Tosin Olakiigbe, Executive Director of Business Services at NNPC (E & P), thanked them for the visit and acknowledged UBTH's active effort in promoting medical collaborations.

The trip underscores UBTH's commitment to collaborating with important business partners to improve affordable, effective, and top-notch medical care in the South-South area.

Supplied by SyndiGate Media Inc. ( Syndigate.info ).