FG Bans Admission, Transfer Into SS3 Nationwide To Tackle Exam Malpractice

According to Ireporter Online, the Federal Government has imposed a nationwide ban on the admission and transfer of students into Senior Secondary School Three (SS3) in both public and private secondary schools, effective from the 2026/27 academic session.

The policy, announced by the Federal Ministry of Education, aims to curb examination malpractice and strengthen the integrity of Nigeria’s education system. A statement signed by the ministry’s Director of Press and Public Relations, Boriowo Folasade, emphasized that the ban applies to all secondary schools across the country.

Under the new regulation, students will only be permitted to enroll or transfer into Senior Secondary School One (SS1) and Senior Secondary School Two (SS2), with SS3 admissions strictly prohibited. The ministry noted that the decision responds to growing concerns about malpractice in public examinations, including the controversial establishment of special centres that give some candidates undue advantages.

Officials explained that the ban is designed to prevent last-minute student transfers intended to manipulate exam outcomes, ensure continuity in learning, and improve academic oversight. School owners, principals, and administrators have been directed to adhere strictly to the policy, with violations subject to sanctions under existing educational regulations.

Reiterating the government’s commitment to educational integrity, the statement declared, “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.”