The Nigerian government has introduced new guidelines restricting graduation ceremonies in primary and secondary schools to only final-year classes, in a move aimed at reducing the financial burden on parents and refocusing attention on academic learning.

Under the new policy announced on Friday, only pupils completing Primary 6, Junior Secondary School 3 (JSS3), and Senior Secondary School 3 (SSS3) will be allowed to hold formal graduation ceremonies. The directive effectively brings an end to the widespread practice of organising graduation events for pupils in lower classes.

The policy was jointly unveiled by the Minister of Education, Maruf Tunji Alausa, and the Minister of State for Education, Prof. Suiwaba Sai’d, who explained that the decision was necessary to curb excessive and often compulsory graduation-related expenses imposed on families.

According to the ministers, graduation ceremonies in many schools had evolved into costly affairs, with parents required to pay for gowns, souvenirs, photographs, and multiple celebrations within a single academic year.

They noted that streamlining graduation events forms part of broader education reforms designed to make schooling more affordable and sustainable. The government added that the policy aligns with other cost-reduction measures, including reforms in textbook usage and academic planning to encourage the reuse of learning materials across sessions.

In addition, the government has introduced a uniform national academic calendar to promote consistency in teaching and school administration, while discouraging practices that place unnecessary financial strain on households.

Reaffirming its commitment to education reform, the Ministry of Education said the new graduation rules are intended to reset priorities within schools, reduce avoidable expenses, and place greater emphasis on learning outcomes rather than ceremonial displays.