BY VICTOR BUORO – Following heightened concerns over examination malpractices, the Federal Government has banned the admission and transfer of students into Senior Secondary School Three (SS3) across all public and private secondary schools in Nigeria.
By this new policy announced by the Federal Ministry of Education and slated for full implementation from the 2026/2027 academic session, schools may only admit or accept transfers into Senior Secondary School One (SS1) or Senior Secondary School Two (SS2), with SS3 completely excluded.
According to the Ministry, the decision follows persistent reports of unethical practices during external examinations, including the use of illegal “special centres” designed to give candidates undue advantage.
A statement signed by the Ministry’s Director of Press and Public Relations, Boriowo Folasade, explained that the ban was intended to halt the late movement of students into final-year classes purely for examination benefits.
The statement quoted Education Minister, Tunji Alausa as stressing that the policy is meant to strengthen standards and restore integrity in secondary education.
It further said: “School proprietors, principals, and administrators nationwide have been directed to comply fully with the policy. Any violation will attract appropriate sanctions in line with existing education regulations and guidelines.”
Ministry’s Officials further noted that the ban forms part of broader education reforms designed to safeguard the credibility of national examinations and reinforce public trust in the system.
This is as the statement also reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to improving academic standards and ensuring that assessment processes reflect genuine learning rather than manipulation.
Meanwhile, with the 2026/2027 academic calendar set as the commencement date, stakeholders have been advised to adjust their admission practices accordingly, as no waiver or special approval will be granted for SS3 entry under any circumstances.
