In a decisive clampdown on costly school fanfare, the Federal Government of Nigeria has banned graduation ceremonies for pupils and students below Primary 6, JSS3 and SSS3.
Under the new directive, only learners completing Primary 6, JSS3 and SSS3 will be allowed to stage graduation ceremonies, bringing an end to what many parents describe as “endless celebrations” that drain family finances.
Announcing the policy, Education Minister Maruf Tunji Alausa said the move forms part of sweeping reforms designed to cut education costs, reduce waste and return focus to learning.
REFORMS AT A GLANCE
Textbooks redesigned to last 4–6 years
Ban on disposable workbooks bundled with textbooks
Single national academic calendar
Fewer but higher-quality approved textbooks
Tighter oversight by NERDC
The government insists the measures will lighten parents’ financial burden, end wasteful practices in schools and raise learning standards nationwide—with classrooms, not ceremonies, back at the centre of education.
About The Author
