EDUCATION
FG Bans Admission, Transfer of Students into SS3 Nationwide to Curb Exam Malpractice
The Federal Government has announced 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 renewed efforts to curb examination malpractice across the country.
The directive, issued by the Federal Ministry of Education, is aimed at addressing the growing trend of examination-related misconduct, including the use of so-called special centres during external examinations, which authorities say has continued to undermine the integrity and credibility of Nigeria’s education system.
According to the Ministry, the policy will take effect from the 2026/2027 academic session. Under the new guidelines, student admissions and transfers will be restricted strictly to Senior Secondary School One (SS1) and Senior Secondary School Two (SS2). Admission or transfer into SS3 will no longer be permitted under any circumstance.
The Ministry explained that the decision is intended to discourage last-minute movement of students in search of examination advantages, ensure proper academic supervision, and promote continuity in teaching and learning throughout the senior secondary school cycle.
School proprietors, principals, and administrators across the country have been directed to comply fully with the new policy. The Ministry warned that any violation would attract appropriate sanctions in line with existing education laws, regulations, and guidelines.
Reaffirming the Federal Government’s commitment to maintaining high academic standards, the Ministry stated that the policy forms part of broader efforts to promote fairness, transparency, and credibility in public examinations nationwide.
The announcement was signed by the Director of Press and Public Relations at the Federal Ministry of Education, Boriowo Folasade.