The Federal Government on Sunday announced a nationwide ban on the admission and transfer of students into Senior Secondary School Three (SS3), in both public and private secondary schools across Nigeria.
The directive was issued by the Federal Ministry of Education in a press release dated December 14, 2025, and signed by the Director of Press and Public Relations, Boriowo Folasade.
Policy Targets Rising Exam Malpractice
The ministry stated that the decision follows “growing concerns over the increasing incidence of examination malpractice, including the use of so-called special centres during external examinations.”
It added that such practices “undermine the integrity and credibility of Nigeria’s education system,” noting that the ban is aimed at curbing these abuses and restoring public confidence in academic assessments.
Effective from 2026/2027 Academic Session
According to the release, the policy will take effect from the 2026/2027 academic session. “The policy will take effect from the next academic calendar 2026/27 with admissions and transfers now restricted strictly to Senior Secondary School One (SS1), and Senior Secondary School Two (SS2),” it said.
The statement emphasized that “admission or transfer into SS3 will no longer be permitted under any circumstance.”
Rationale: Preventing Last-Minute Transfers
The ministry explained that the measure seeks to discourage the movement of students late into their secondary school education for examination-related advantages.
“The measure is aimed at discouraging last-minute movement of students for examination-related advantages, ensuring proper academic monitoring, and promoting continuity in teaching and learning,” the release stated.
Education authorities argue that allowing transfers at this stage undermines the ability of schools to track academic performance, continuous assessment, and student progress, creating opportunities for malpractice.
Schools Directed to Comply
School proprietors, principals, and administrators nationwide have been directed to comply fully with the new policy. “Any violation will attract appropriate sanctions in line with existing education regulations and guidelines,” the ministry warned.
Regulatory agencies are expected to monitor compliance strictly, including enrollment records, continuous assessment data, and adherence to the policy by both public and private schools.
Reaffirming Commitment to Academic Integrity
The Federal Ministry of Education emphasized that the directive is part of broader reforms aimed at protecting the integrity of public examinations.
“The Federal Ministry of Education reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to maintaining academic standards, promoting fairness, and restoring credibility to public examinations across the country,” the statement added.
Education experts say that while the ban alone may not completely eliminate malpractice, it represents a significant step toward ensuring fairness and credibility in Nigeria’s education system.
