The Federal Government has banned the admission and transfer of students into Senior Secondary School Three (SS3) in all public and private secondary schools across the country.
The directive follows concerns over rising examination malpractice, including the use of so-called special centres, which authorities say undermine the credibility of Nigeria’s education system.
In a statement by the Director of Press and Public Relations at the Federal Ministry of Education, Mrs. Folasade Boriowo, the policy will take effect from the 2026/2027 academic session.
Under the new rule, admissions and transfers will be allowed only 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 said the measure is designed to curb last-minute student movement for examination advantages, ensure effective academic monitoring and promote continuity in teaching and learning.
School proprietors, principals and administrators nationwide have been directed to comply fully with the policy, warning that violations will attract sanctions in line with existing education regulations.