The Rivers State University (RSU) in Port Harcourt, Nigeria, has denied reports of flooding at its main entrance. A viral image circulating on social media alleged that the university's main gate and surrounding areas were flooded and inaccessible. However, the university management described the image as false and misleading. In a press release dated October 9, 2026, the Registrar, Dr. Idanyingi I. Daminabo, clarified that the institution was not flooded and its main entrance remained accessible.
The university stated that the image did not reflect the actual situation on campus. The management urged members of the university community and the general public to disregard the image and refrain from sharing or amplifying unverified information. This, they said, could generate unnecessary fear and disrupt the institution's activities. The university also cautioned individuals deliberately circulating false information about the university to desist from such acts.
The management encouraged members of the public to obtain information about the institution exclusively through officially recognised communication channels. These channels include the university's official website and verified social media platforms. By doing so, the university aims to provide accurate information to the public and prevent the spread of misinformation.
The Rivers State University remains open and continues to welcome members of staff, students, parents, prospective students, guests, and organisations interested in engaging or partnering with the institution. The university's main entrance is accessible, and academic activities are ongoing as usual.
This incident is not the first time a Nigerian institution has been affected by misinformation. Recently, the University of Port Harcourt (UNIPORT) alerted members of the public to a fake Facebook account allegedly impersonating its Vice-Chancellor, Professor Chike Princewill R. Chike. The university warned members of the public against engaging with the operators of the account or responding to messages purportedly sent by the Vice-Chancellor.
The Federal Government and states have also intensified efforts to address persistent challenges confronting Nigeria's education sector. The 85th Plenary Meeting of the Joint Consultative Committee on Education (JCC) was held in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, with stakeholders identifying improved infrastructure and teacher motivation as critical to reversing poor learning outcomes.
The meeting reviewed several Federal Government interventions designed to reposition the education sector, including the Nigeria Education Sector Renewal Initiative (NESRI) and the Renewed Hope Energized Education Programme (RHEEP). Stakeholders also advocated innovative financing models, including public-private partnerships, community participation, and increased contributions from alumni associations.
Key points
- The Rivers State University has denied reports of flooding at its main entrance, describing a viral image as false and misleading.
- The university urged members of the public to obtain information through officially recognised communication channels.
- The incident is part of a broader effort to address challenges in Nigeria's education sector, including misinformation and infrastructure development.
