The Ogun government bans graduation ceremonies across all schools in the state has sparked wide attention after authorities ordered an immediate stop to graduation events and end-of-session celebrations in both public and private institutions.
The directive, issued by the Ministry of Education, Science and Technology, is aimed at curbing what the government described as unnecessary financial demands placed on parents and guardians under the guise of school celebrations. Schools that fail to comply with the order risk sanctions from education regulators.
According to officials, the decision follows several complaints that some school administrators have turned graduation activities into compulsory fee-driven events, increasing the financial burden on families already struggling with rising living costs.
The circular, signed by the Director of Education (Private Schools), A.A. Bisiriyu, and dated June 17, instructed all school heads to immediately stop organising such events and ensure strict compliance across the state.
Government moves to curb “hidden charges” in schools
Authorities explained that the ban became necessary after repeated reports that some schools were allegedly using graduation and end-of-session parties as a cover to impose additional financial obligations on parents.
“It has been brought to the notice of the Ministry that some administrators of both public and non-state (private) schools have started extorting parents/guardians under the disguise of organising graduation/end-of-session parties for learners,” the circular stated.
The government emphasized that the education system should prioritise academic development rather than social events that may lead to unnecessary expenses.
Officials further noted that basic education institutions must focus on delivering quality learning outcomes rather than organising ceremonies that do not directly contribute to students’ academic progress.
Parents across the state have often complained about compulsory levies tied to such celebrations, especially in nursery, primary, and junior secondary schools where multiple “graduation” events are sometimes held within a single academic cycle.
Enforcement and penalties for defaulting schools
The ministry warned that any school found violating the directive would face disciplinary action in line with existing education laws and regulations.
“All school owners and administrators are hereby directed to comply with this directive with immediate effect and ensure that parents, guardians, and other stakeholders are properly informed,” the statement added.
The government’s position also reflects a broader concern about the commercialization of basic education in the state, where schools are being encouraged to reduce unnecessary financial practices that strain households.
The development places Ogun State among several Nigerian states that have recently taken similar steps to regulate school celebrations. Earlier in the week, authorities in Kogi State also reaffirmed restrictions on graduation ceremonies in nursery, primary, and junior secondary schools, warning that non-compliant schools could face closure.
Other states, including Benue, Osun, Ondo, and Imo, have also introduced policies aimed at reducing what they describe as excessive or unnecessary graduation-related expenses in schools.
Education stakeholders say the latest directive could reshape how schools handle end-of-session traditions, particularly in private institutions where celebratory events have become a major source of revenue.
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However, implementation will depend largely on enforcement by education inspectors and the willingness of school administrators to comply with the new policy.
For now, the Ogun State Government has maintained that the ban is final and immediate, stressing that schools must strictly comply or face sanctions without exception.
