Royal Court Private School in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, has inaugurated a new Governing Council, marking a significant milestone in its development. The council, comprising 13 members, is chaired by Sir Godson Dienye, a former General Manager of Nigeria LNG Limited (NLNG). The inauguration ceremony took place on September 21, 2026, at the school's premises. This new council is expected to strengthen the school's governance structure, enhance academic standards, and expand its contribution to education in Rivers State.
The new Governing Council includes a diverse group of professionals with backgrounds in business, academia, engineering, law, public administration, and school management. Mrs Boma Okaka, a member of the previous council, has been retained as Vice Chairman. Other members include Mr Tony Epelle, Managing Consultant at SAMUELSON Advisory Partners; Dr (Mrs) Ruth Ombo Briggs; Prof Lois Abraham; Dr Douye Okoba; Engr Sunny Ade; Victor Graham-Douglas, Esq.; Mr Nnazoba Dunu; and Madam Sogba Stella Peterside, the Executive Director and Founder. The School Administrator, Pastor Ere Kala-Ogolo; Principal, Mr Barnabas Njoku; and Secretary to the Board, Mr Somina Erekosima, are also part of the council.
Dr Dakuku Peterside, former Director-General and Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA), spoke on behalf of the Adolphus Peterside Trust, the school's promoter. He charged the new council to build on the foundation laid by its predecessors and prepare the institution for its next chapter while safeguarding its mission of developing future leaders. Peterside emphasized that the school's responsibility extends beyond academic performance to developing students with character, competence, and a sense of responsibility.
Peterside highlighted the school's motto, "Godliness, Excellence and Leadership," as a framework for the council's responsibilities. He urged council members to demonstrate integrity, courage, and accountability, and to raise young people who possess both competence and conscience. The new council's performance, Peterside said, will be measured by the strength of the institution it builds, the confidence it inspires, and the opportunities it creates for students.
The outgoing Chairman of the Governing Council, Pastor George Izunwa, expressed appreciation to the Adolphus Peterside Trust for the confidence reposed in the outgoing council. He also thanked members of his council for their support and cooperation throughout their tenure. The inauguration of the new council brings together a team with a wealth of experience and expertise, poised to take the school to the next level.
Royal Court Private School, founded in 2011, is an independent, co-educational, boarding-only secondary school in Port Harcourt. The school teaches the British National Curriculum within a Nigerian context and aims to develop students into God-fearing and exemplary leaders. With its new Governing Council, the school is set to enhance its educational offerings and contribute significantly to the development of future leaders in Nigeria.
The inauguration of the new Governing Council marks a significant milestone in the history of Royal Court Private School. With Sir Godson Dienye at the helm, the council is expected to drive growth, innovation, and excellence in education. The school's commitment to developing students with character, competence, and a sense of responsibility is expected to continue under the new council's leadership.
Key points
- Sir Godson Dienye, a former NLNG GM, has been appointed chairman of the new Governing Council of Royal Court Private School.
- The new 13-member council includes professionals from various backgrounds, aiming to strengthen governance and enhance academic standards.
- The school's mission is to develop students into God-fearing and exemplary leaders, guided by its motto "Godliness, Excellence and Leadership."
