The Federal Government has imposed a nationwide ban on the admission and transfer of students into Senior Secondary School Three (SS3) across all public and private secondary schools, effective from the 2026/2027 academic session.
The directive, announced by the Federal Ministry of Education, is aimed at curbing examination malpractice and restoring integrity to Nigeria’s education system.
In a statement signed by Boriowo Folasade, Director of Press and Public Relations at the ministry, the government said the policy was introduced in response to widespread concerns over examination fraud, including the proliferation of “special centres” used to facilitate malpractice during external examinations.
Under the new rule, students may only be admitted or transferred into Senior Secondary School One (SS1) or Senior Secondary School Two (SS2). Movement into SS3 has been prohibited entirely.
“Admission or transfer into SS3 will no longer be permitted under any circumstance,” the ministry stated.
Education officials said the measure is designed to stop the practice of relocating students at the final year for examination advantages, improve academic oversight, and ensure continuity in learning.
School proprietors, principals, and administrators have been instructed to comply fully with the directive. The ministry warned that violations would attract sanctions under existing education laws and regulations.
“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,” the statement said.
