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, beginning from the 2026/27 academic session.
The directive is part of renewed efforts by the Federal Ministry of Education to address the growing issue of examination malpractice and restore credibility to Nigeria’s education system.
In a statement signed by the Director of Press and Public Relations at the ministry, Boriowo Folasade, the government said the prohibition would apply to all secondary schools across the country.
“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 statement read.
Under the new policy, students will only be eligible for admission or transfer into 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 added.
According to the ministry, the prohibition follows growing concerns over malpractice in public examinations, including the controversial use of so‑called special centres designed to give some candidates unfair advantages.
Officials explained that the measure is intended to discourage last‑minute student movements aimed at improving exam performance, enhance academic monitoring, and promote continuity in teaching and learning.
School proprietors, principals, and administrators have been directed to comply fully with the new policy.
The ministry warned that any violation of the directive would result in sanctions in accordance with existing educational regulations and guidelines.
Reaffirming the government’s stance on educational integrity, the statement added, “The Federal Ministry of Education reaffirms the Federal Government’s commitment to maintaining academic standards, promoting fairness, and restoring credibility to public examinations across the country.”
