Federal Government says move will reduce financial pressure on parents and curb excessive commercialization of education.
The Nigerian Federal Government (FG) has announced a new directive restricting graduation ceremonies in Nigerian schools to only final-year classes, in a move aimed at easing financial burdens on parents and refocusing schools on academic learning.
According to the policy, only pupils in Primary 6, Junior Secondary School 3 (JSS3), and Senior Secondary School 3 (SSS3) will be permitted to hold formal graduation ceremonies. The directive effectively puts an end to graduation events for nursery, kindergarten, and other non-exit classes that have become widespread across the country.
Education officials say the decision was taken after growing complaints from parents over the high cost of repeated graduation ceremonies, which often include payments for gowns, souvenirs, photographs, and elaborate celebrations.
The Federal Ministry of Education explained that the policy is designed to:
- Reduce unnecessary financial pressure on parents and guardians
- Curb the commercialization of basic education
- Promote discipline and academic focus in schools
- Limit celebrations to major academic milestones
Officials noted that graduation ceremonies should mark significant transitions in a child’s educational journey, not yearly rituals that place additional strain on families.
The graduation restriction is part of a broader set of reforms introduced by the Federal Government to make education more affordable and sustainable. Other measures include the introduction of reusable textbooks and the adoption of a uniform academic calendar nationwide.
The government believes these reforms will help reduce the rising cost of education while improving learning outcomes for student
While many parents have welcomed the policy, describing it as long overdue, some private school operators have expressed concerns over implementation, arguing that graduation ceremonies are part of school culture and motivation for pupils.
Several states, including Ogun, Abia, and Osun, had previously introduced similar restrictions, signaling growing consensus on the need to regulate excessive school celebrations.
With this new directive, schools are expected to comply immediately, limiting graduation events strictly to Primary 6, JSS3, and SSS3. Education authorities have warned that sanctions may follow for institutions that violate the policy.
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