The Rivers State Government has approved the employment of 5,000 teachers as part of efforts to strengthen service delivery and improve standards in the education sector across the state.
The approval was granted by the Rivers State Executive Council during its second meeting of 2026, which was presided over by Governor Siminalayi Fubara, with the Deputy Governor, Prof. Ngozi Nma Odu, also in attendance.
The council meeting took place on Tuesday at the Government House in Port Harcourt.
Speaking to journalists after the meeting, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Information and Communications, Dr. Honor Sirawoo, explained that the recruitment exercise is strategically designed to enhance the quality of education delivery in Rivers State.
According to Sirawoo, out of the 5,000 teachers approved for recruitment, 3,000 will be deployed to basic and primary schools, while the remaining 2,000 will be posted to post-primary institutions across the state.
He said the decision aligns with the administration’s broader goal of strengthening public service delivery, with education identified as a key priority area.
Sirawoo further disclosed that the latest approval brings the total number of persons employed under the Governor Fubara-led administration to approximately 9,500.
He recalled that previous recruitment exercises under the current government included the employment of 2,000 personnel in the health sector, 1,500 staff for Ignatius Ajuru University of Education, and 1,000 workers for the Universal Basic Education programme.
Emphasising the administration’s commitment to merit, transparency, and professionalism, Sirawoo assured that the recruitment process would be carefully guided to ensure that only qualified candidates are engaged.
He noted that while the government continues to expand the state workforce, its focus remains on delivering tangible services rather than seeking publicity, stressing that the administration’s actions are driven by a commitment to serve the people of Rivers State.
Also speaking after the meeting, the Commissioner for Employment Generation and Economic Empowerment, Dr. Chisom Kenneth Gbali, described the approval as a major boost, adding that his ministry stands to benefit significantly from the policy initiative.
What you should know
The approval to recruit 5,000 teachers reflects the Rivers State Government’s ongoing focus on strengthening public education and expanding employment opportunities.
Since assuming office, Governor Siminalayi Fubara’s administration has prioritised key sectors such as education, health, and human capital development through large-scale recruitment. The deployment of teachers to both basic and post-primary schools is expected to address staffing gaps, improve learning outcomes, and enhance service delivery across the state.
The government has also reiterated its commitment to transparency and merit in the recruitment process, signalling a continued emphasis on professionalism and accountability in public service.
