The Federal Government has announced a nationwide ban on the admission and transfer of students into Senior Secondary School Three (SS3) in both public and private schools, effective from the 2026/27 academic session.
The directive, issued by the Federal Ministry of Education, is expected to affect students seeking to enrol in or change schools during the final year of secondary education.
In a statement signed by Mrs. Boriowo Folasade, Director of Press and Public Relations at the Ministry, the government said the policy was introduced to curb examination malpractice and restore credibility to 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 said.
According to the ministry, the decision followed growing concerns over increasing cases of examination malpractice, particularly the use of so-called special centres during external examinations. It clarified that admissions and transfers would henceforth be restricted 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 stressed.
Officials explained that the measure is designed to discourage last-minute movement of students for examination-related advantages, ensure effective academic monitoring, and promote continuity in teaching and learning.
The ministry directed all school proprietors, principals and administrators nationwide to ensure full compliance with the policy, warning that any violation would attract sanctions in accordance with existing education regulations and guidelines.
Reaffirming its resolve, the ministry said the policy underscores the Federal Government’s commitment to upholding academic standards, promoting fairness and restoring public confidence in examinations across the country.
