The Nigerian Government, through the Federal Ministry of Education, has announced a ban on admission and transfer of students into Senior Secondary School Three (SS3) across all public and private secondary schools in the country.
It said it is part of efforts to curb examination malpractice. A statement by the Director of Press of the Ministry, Boriowo Folashade, noted that the directive is aimed at addressing the growing incidence of examination irregularities, particularly the use of ‘special centres’ during external examinations.
Authorities say this undermines the integrity and credibility of Nigeria’s education system. According to the ministry, the new policy will take effect from the 2026/2027 academic session.
Under the arrangement, admissions and transfers will be permitted only into Senior Secondary School One (SS1) and Senior Secondary School Two (SS2), while admission or transfer into SS3 will no longer be allowed under any circumstances.
The ministry explained that the measure is designed to discourage last-minute movement of students to schools perceived to offer examination advantages, a practice it said fuels malpractice.
It added that the policy would also ensure proper academic monitoring of students and promote continuity in teaching and learning.
School proprietors, principals and administrators nationwide have been directed to comply strictly with the new directive. The ministry warned that any violation would attract appropriate sanctions in line with existing education regulations and guidelines.
Reaffirming the Federal Government’s commitment to safeguarding academic standards, the Ministry said the policy forms part of broader efforts to promote fairness and restore public confidence in the conduct of examinations across the country.