FG Bans Admission, Transfer of SS3 Students Nationwide

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The Federal Government has announced a nationwide ban on the admission and transfer of students into Senior Secondary School Three (SS3).

According to a statement signed by Boriowo Folasade, Director of Press and Public Relations at the Federal Ministry of Education, the directive forms part of measures to address examination malpractice and strengthen 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.

The ministry explained that the policy follows rising concerns over the growing prevalence of malpractice, including the use of so-called special centres during external examinations.

It added that admissions and transfers will henceforth be limited strictly to 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 stated.

Officials said the directive is intended to deter last-minute movement of students for examination-related benefits, ensure effective academic supervision, and encourage continuity in teaching and learning.

The ministry further directed school proprietors, principals, and administrators across the country to ensure full compliance with the policy.

It warned that any breach of the directive would attract sanctions in accordance with existing education laws and regulatory guidelines.

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.”

Recall that the Federal Government recently discontinued the national policy that required the use of indigenous languages as the medium of instruction in Nigerian schools.

The Minister of Education, Dr. Tunji Alausa, announced the decision on Wednesday at the 2025 Language in Education International Conference organised by the British Council in Abuja.

What do you think of the government’s ban on the admission and transfer of SS3 students? Let us know your thoughts in the comment section below.