JUST-IN: Federal Government Bans Direct Admission, Transfer To SS3 Nationwide

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, effective from the 2026/27 academic session.

This was contained in a press release
signed by Boriowo Folasade, Director of Press and Public Relations, Federal Ministry of Education, which was shared on the Ministry’s X handle on Sunday.

The Ministry said the decision was taken to curb the growing incidence of examination malpractice across the country.

The statement expressed concern over the increasing use of so-called “special centres” and other unethical practices during external examinations, which it noted have continued to undermine the integrity and credibility of Nigeria’s education system.

“The directive follows growing concerns over the increasing incidence of examination malpractice, including the use of so-called special centres during external examinations, which undermine the integrity and credibility of Nigeria’s education system.

“The policy will take effect from the next academic calendar 2026/27 with admissions and transfers now restricted strictly to Senior Secondary School One (SS1) and Senior Secondary School Two (552),” it stated.

The Ministry further explained that the policy wws designed to discourage last-minute movement of students for examination-related advantages, ensure proper academic monitoring, and promote continuity in teaching and learning throughout the senior secondary school cycle.

School proprietors, principals, and administrators across the country have been directed to comply fully with the new policy.

The Ministry warned that any violation will attract appropriate sanctions in line with existing education regulations and guidelines.

Reaffirming the Federal Government’s commitment to maintaining academic standards, the Ministry said the measure was part of broader efforts to promote fairness and restore credibility to public examinations nationwide.