The Federal Government has announced a nationwide ban on the admission and transfer of students into Senior Secondary School Three (SS3) in all public and private secondary schools, beginning from the 2026/2027 academic session.
The directive was contained in a statement signed by Boriowo Folasade, Director of Press and Public Relations, Federal Ministry of Education, and described as part of renewed efforts to curb examination malpractice and restore confidence in Nigeria’s education system.
“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.
According to the ministry, the decision follows mounting concerns over widespread examination malpractice, including the growing use of so-called special centres during external examinations.
It explained that, under the new policy, admissions and transfers will be allowed only into Senior Secondary School One (SS1) and Senior Secondary School Two (SS2), stressing that movement into SS3 would no longer be tolerated.
“Admission or transfer into SS3 will no longer be permitted under any circumstance,” the ministry stated.
Education officials said the policy is aimed at discouraging last-minute relocation of students for examination advantages, strengthening academic monitoring, and ensuring continuity in teaching and learning.
School proprietors, principals and administrators across the country have been directed to ensure full compliance with the new rule.
The ministry warned that any breach of the directive would attract sanctions in line with existing education laws, regulations and guidelines.
Reaffirming the government’s position, 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.”
