The Ogun State Government has barred graduation ceremonies for Nursery, Kindergarten, and other non-final-year classes in both public and private schools across the state.
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‎The directive, issued by the Ministry of Education, Science and Technology in a circular dated June 18, 2026, was circulated to school administrators through Zonal Education Officers.
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‎According to the Ministry, graduation events are now permitted only for Primary Six pupils, Junior Secondary School (JSS3) students, and Senior Secondary School (SSS3) candidates, being the classes that mark the completion of key academic stages.
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‎Even for these categories, the government insisted that ceremonies must be conducted in a simple and cost-free manner, with no financial burden placed on pupils, parents, or guardians.
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‎The circular also banned what it described as excessive celebrations, including canopies, Aso Ebi, customised outfits, and other costly social displays during school events.
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‎Signed by the Director of Education (Private Schools), Bisiriyu A.A., on behalf of the Permanent Secretary, the ministry stressed that schools should focus more on academic achievement and character development rather than lavish celebrations.
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‎It further directed all school owners and administrators to ensure strict compliance, warning that any institution found violating the order would face sanctions in line with existing regulations.
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‎The government explained that the policy aims to reduce unnecessary financial pressure on parents, noting that some schools had previously been accused of using graduation ceremonies as a means of imposing extra costs on families.