The Akwa Ibom State Ministry of Education disclosed its intention to curb loitering, street vending and truancy among school‑age children during school hours throughout the state.

In a notice released by the Office of the Honourable Commissioner for Education on October 14, 2026, officials said that despite the state's Free and Compulsory Education Policy, a number of basic and pre‑tertiary pupils are found wandering the streets and engaging in hawking during school time.

The ministry pointed out that this behaviour typically occurs between 8:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m., Monday through Friday, periods when learners are expected to be present in school.

It also voiced concern over school‑age children who are not registered in any educational institution.

To combat the problem, the ministry said it will set up a Special Monitoring Task Force tasked with intercepting students who arrive late or leave their classrooms during school hours.

The task force will also confront parents and guardians who neglect their duty to ensure that their children or wards are enrolled in school.

According to the ministry, the move is designed to reinforce adherence to the Free and Compulsory Education Policy and to guarantee that every school‑age child receives the education they are entitled to.

Officials explained that the measure seeks to protect children’s futures, enhance their safety, and curb truancy and classroom disruptions that hinder learning.

It further aims to prevent child abuse while promoting discipline and focused study among pupils across Akwa Ibom State.

The notice bears the signature of Professor Ubong Essien Umoh, Honourable Commissioner for Education, Akwa Ibom State.

Parents and guardians are reminded to make sure their children or wards are enrolled in school and attend classes consistently during official school hours.