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 Ministry said the directive follows growing concerns over the increasing incidence of examination malpractice, including the use of so-called special centres during external examinations, which it said undermine the integrity and credibility of Nigeria’s education system.
According to the Ministry, the policy will take effect from the next academic calendar 2026/27, with admissions and transfers now restricted strictly to Senior Secondary School One (SS1) and Senior Secondary School Two (SS2). It stated that “admission or transfer into SS3 will no longer be permitted under any circumstance.”
Explaining the decision, the Ministry said the measure is aimed at “discouraging last-minute movement of students for examination-related advantages,” while also ensuring proper academic monitoring and promoting continuity in teaching and learning.
School proprietors, principals, and administrators nationwide have been directed to comply fully with the policy, as the Ministry warned that “any violation will attract appropriate sanctions in line with existing education regulations and guidelines.”
Reaffirming its position, the Federal Ministry of Education stated that “the Federal Government remains committed to maintaining academic standards, promoting fairness, and restoring credibility to public examinations across the country.”
The Ministry added that all stakeholders are expected to align with the directive ahead of its implementation to support a more transparent and credible education system. The directive applies nationwide to all schools.
