The Cross River State Government has announced sweeping education policy reforms, including the abolition of textbooks embedded with workbooks across all public and private schools in the state. The move, according to the state, is part of efforts to standardize academic practices, protect pupils’ welfare, and reduce costs for parents.
The reforms, which were approved by Governor Senator Bassey Otu, were unveiled on Wednesday during a press briefing in Calabar by the State Commissioner for Education, Senator Stephen Odey. He stressed that the changes take immediate effect and urged all school operators to comply or face sanctions.
Under the new guidelines, only textbooks approved by the Ministry of Education will be permitted in schools. Publishers are strictly prohibited from embedding workbooks into textbooks, a practice that makes books non-transferable from one pupil to another. Odey explained that the ban would ensure uniformity across schools, allow for the reuse of books, and ease the financial burden on parents.
The Commissioner also announced that both public and private schools in the state will now operate a uniform academic calendar, with identical resumption and closing dates. Schools that disregard this directive risk penalties such as derecognition and the withdrawal of their approval-to-operate (ATO).
To further reduce unnecessary costs, the government abolished graduation ceremonies for kindergarten, nursery, and other non-exit classes. From now on, only Primary 6, JSS3, and SS3 pupils are permitted to hold graduation ceremonies, in line with their status as transitional classes.
Another key highlight of the reforms is the regulation of school hours. All primary schools are now required to close by 1:00 pm, while secondary schools must end classes at 2:00 pm. The government also banned compulsory after-school lessons, arguing that they often result in mental fatigue, physical stress, and unnecessary financial strain on parents. However, Odey clarified that extra lessons remain optional, provided parents give their consent.
Addressing social vices, Odey revealed that every school in Cross River State—public and private—must now establish Anti-Drug Clubs to curb the rising incidence of drug abuse among students. These clubs will be tasked with monitoring and reporting cases, creating awareness, and working with authorities to enforce discipline.
Similarly, to combat bullying, schools must set up Anti-Bullying Committees. The government warned that any student caught engaging in bullying will face instant expulsion as a deterrent to others. Odey described the initiative as a crucial step toward creating a safer and more respectful learning environment.
In a bid to strengthen data management and prevent fraudulent practices, the Commissioner announced the introduction of unique index numbers for all pupils, from Kindergarten to SS3, beginning with the 2025/2026 academic session. He explained that the index numbers will streamline admissions, prevent irregular transfers, and improve record accuracy across the system. Distribution of the numbers will commence in early 2026 once admission documentation is finalized.
The Commissioner reiterated that the reforms are mandatory and non-negotiable, warning school proprietors and administrators against delaying compliance. “Implementation takes effect immediately,” he said. “Any violation of these directives will attract strict sanctions from the Ministry.”
Odey expressed appreciation to Governor Otu for endorsing the comprehensive policy changes. He described the reforms as a “significant step toward achieving holistic, quality education for all Cross River children,” adding that they represent the administration’s commitment to safeguarding the future of the state through a stronger educational foundation.
With these reforms, Cross River State joins the growing list of states taking bold steps to realign education with global best practices while also addressing the peculiar socio-economic realities of Nigerian families.
