The Benue State government is set to shut down 2,100 primary and secondary schools that are operating illegally as part of a crackdown to ensure educational institutions meet regulatory standards. This initiative, led by the Benue State Bureau for Education Quality Assurance (BEQA) under the direction of Dr. Terna Francis, aims to address the proliferation of unaccredited schools across the state.

The Bureau has invited schools that have completed their recertification processes to collect their certificates of consent, which is now required for formal approval. This measure aligns with the state’s adoption of the 9-3-4 education system, where students progress from Basic 6 to Basic 7, eventually receiving the Basic Education Certificate Examination (BECE) by the end of Basic 9, replacing the former First School Leaving Certificate.

Additionally, beginning in August, the Bureau will collaborate with the Benue State Board of Internal Revenue Service (BIRS) and the Benue State Urban Development Board (BSUDB) to shut down and potentially demolish substandard and unapproved schools. This effort is part of a broader commitment by the state to enforce standards in education and support quality learning environments for students.