The Federal Government has imposed 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 and strengthen the credibility of Nigeria’s education system.
The directive was issued by the Federal Ministry of Education, following rising concerns over widespread examination irregularities, including the use of so-called “special centres” during external examinations.
In a statement signed by the Director of Press and Public Relations of the ministry, Boriowo Folasade, the government announced that the policy will take effect from the 2026/2027 academic session.
Under the new regulation, admissions and transfers will be permitted only into Senior Secondary School One (SS1) and Senior Secondary School Two (SS2).
“The Federal Government, through the Federal Ministry of Education, has announced a nationwide prohibition on the admission and transfer of students into Senior Secondary School Three (SS3) in all public and private secondary schools,” the statement said.
It explained that the decision was taken in response to the increasing incidence of examination malpractice, which has continued to undermine the integrity of public examinations and the education system as a whole.
“The policy will take effect from the 2026/27 academic session, with admissions and transfers restricted strictly to SS1 and SS2. Admission or transfer into SS3 will no longer be permitted under any circumstance,” the ministry stated.
According to the ministry, the move is aimed at discouraging last-minute transfers of students for examination-related advantages, ensuring effective academic monitoring, and promoting stability and continuity in teaching and learning.
The government also warned that strict compliance would be enforced nationwide, adding that school proprietors, principals, and administrators would be held responsible for any breach of the directive.
“Any violation of this policy will attract appropriate sanctions in line with existing education regulations and guidelines,” the statement warned.
Reiterating its stance, the ministry reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to improving educational standards, promoting fairness, and restoring public confidence in national examinations.
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