Rivers Assembly Begins Legislative Process to Restore Government Sea School, Isaka
By Mercy Tula, SOUTH SOUTH DESK –Â The Rivers State House of Assembly has taken the first legislative step towards restoring Government Sea School, Isaka, in Okrika Local Government Area, following the First Reading of a bill seeking to re-establish the institution as a maritime and vocational training centre.
The bill, sponsored by the member representing Okrika Constituency, was introduced during plenary on Friday as part of efforts to expand access to practical skills and prepare young people for opportunities in the maritime sector and blue economy.
The proposed legislation seeks to repeal the Rivers State Sports Institute Law and establish a legal framework for the re-establishment of Government Sea School, Isaka, with provisions covering its governance, funding and administration.
It also seeks to update the institution’s operational mandate to address contemporary maritime training needs.
The sponsor said the proposed restoration was aimed at reconnecting the state’s maritime heritage with educational and economic opportunities for younger generations.
According to the lawmaker, the institution would equip young people from Okrika and other parts of Rivers State with the knowledge, technical competence and discipline required to participate in the maritime industry.
He noted that the state’s rivers and creeks, which had sustained generations of residents, could provide further opportunities for economic advancement if supported by appropriate education and vocational training.
The lawmaker said the proposed institution would help young people translate the state’s maritime resources into practical skills, productive livelihoods and sustainable careers.
He added that achieving the objective would require a clear institutional mandate, effective administration and sustained commitment to maritime education.
The sponsor expressed appreciation to the Speaker of the House, Rt. Hon. Martin Amaewhule, and other lawmakers for their support for the bill.
He also acknowledged the contributions of the bill’s co-sponsors, Hon. Arnold Davids, Hon. Tonye Adoki, Hon. Enemi George, Hon. Igwe Aforji, Hon. Azeru Opara and Hon. Nkemjika Ezekwe.
The First Reading marks the beginning of the bill’s legislative journey towards the proposed restoration of Government Sea School, Isaka.
If enacted, the legislation would provide the legal foundation for the institution’s re-establishment as a maritime and vocational training centre, with the broader goal of strengthening skills development and expanding opportunities for young people in Rivers State.
