The Federal Government has announced a nationwide ban on the admission and transfer of students into Senior Secondary School Three (SS3) in both public and private secondary schools, as part of efforts to curb examination malpractice.
The directive was issued by the Federal Ministry of Education in a press release signed by the Director of Press and Public Relations, Mrs. Boriowo Folasade. According to the Ministry, the policy is aimed at addressing the rising cases of examination fraud, including the use of so-called “special centres” during external examinations, which have continued to undermine the credibility of Nigeria’s education system.
The Ministry disclosed that the new policy will take effect from the 2026/2027 academic session. Under the guidelines, admissions and transfers will now be permitted only into Senior Secondary School One (SS1) and Senior Secondary School Two (SS2), while admission or transfer into SS3 has been completely prohibited under any circumstance.
Explaining the rationale behind the decision, the Ministry said the measure is designed to discourage last-minute movement of students for examination-related advantages, ensure effective academic monitoring, and promote continuity in teaching and learning across secondary schools.
School proprietors, principals and administrators across the country have been directed to strictly comply with the policy, with the Federal Government warning that violations will attract appropriate sanctions in line with existing education regulations.
The Federal Ministry of Education reaffirmed the government’s commitment to upholding academic standards, promoting fairness in examinations, and restoring public confidence in the nation’s education system.
