The Rivers State chapter of the National Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN) has applauded the Rivers State House of Assembly for its recent resolution calling for a State of Emergency to be declared in the education sector.
Factional NYCN Chairman, Comr. (Dr.) Nwisabari Bani Samuel, described the Assembly’s decision as a strong endorsement of the council’s long-standing advocacy for urgent reform.
He recalled that on 17 June 2025, during a courtesy visit to the State Ministry of Education, the NYCN leadership had specifically urged the state government to declare a State of Emergency on education. The demand was again reiterated on 9 November 2025 at the council’s Thanksgiving and Public Lecture marking the return of peace in Rivers State.
Bani Samuel also commended Hon. Igew Aforji, DSSRS, member representing Eleme Constituency and Chairman of the House Committee on Education, along with his committee members, for their proactive steps. He noted that their visits to public schools and firsthand assessment of dilapidated facilities were instrumental in drawing legislative attention to the poor state of the sector.
He said the declaration of a State of Emergency would pave the way for a thorough evaluation of challenges affecting public schools and promote lasting solutions. He added that such a move should trigger an increase in the education budget from the current 5% to at least 20% in line with global standards.
