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 across the country.
The directive was issued by the Federal Ministry of Education in a statement dated December 14, 2025, and signed by the Director of Press and Public Relations, Boriowo Folasade.
According to the ministry, the decision followed growing concerns over the rising 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.
The policy, the statement said, will take effect from the 2026/2027 academic session.
“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),” the ministry stated, adding that admission or transfer into SS3 would no longer be permitted under any circumstance.
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The ministry explained that the measure was aimed at discouraging last-minute movement of students for examination-related advantages, ensuring proper academic monitoring, and promoting continuity in teaching and learning.
It directed school proprietors, principals and administrators nationwide to comply fully with the new policy, warning that violations would attract appropriate sanctions in line with existing education regulations and guidelines.
The ministry reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to maintaining academic standards, promoting fairness and restoring credibility to public examinations across the country.