The Ogun State Government has banned graduation ceremonies for pupils in Nursery, Kindergarten, and other non-terminal classes, warning schools against imposing unnecessary financial burdens on parents.
In a directive issued by the Ministry of Education, Science and Technology, graduation ceremonies will now be strictly limited to pupils in Primary Six, Junior Secondary School (JSS3), and Senior Secondary School (SSS3), who are officially completing key stages of their education.
The circular, referenced PRVS 426/5 and dated June 18, 2026, was sent to administrators of public and private schools through Zonal Education Officers. It was signed by the Director of Education (Private Schools), Bisiriyu A.A., on behalf of the Permanent Secretary.
According to the Ministry, the move is aimed at easing the financial pressure many parents and guardians face due to extravagant school celebrations.
The directive further states that even approved graduation ceremonies for Primary Six, JSS3, and SSS3 students must be conducted modestly and should not attract any financial cost to learners, parents, or guardians.
The government also prohibited the use of canopies, Aso Ebi, customized outfits, and other lavish displays often associated with graduation events.
Schools were advised to focus on celebrating academic achievement and character development rather than organizing elaborate social gatherings that place additional financial demands on families.
The Ministry warned that any school found violating the directive would face sanctions in accordance with existing regulations governing educational institutions in the state.
This latest directive follows an earlier order by the Ogun State Government directing all public and private schools to discontinue graduation ceremonies and end-of-session parties over concerns of alleged exploitation of parents.
“It has been brought to the notice of the Ministry that some administrators of both public and private schools have started extorting parents and guardians under the guise of organizing graduation and end-of-session parties for learners,” the earlier circular stated.
The government reiterated its commitment to ensuring that school activities remain educationally relevant and financially considerate for families across the state.
