The Imo State Government has banned graduation parties for pupils in kindergarten, nursery, and Junior Secondary School 3 (JSS3), insisting the move will ease financial pressure on parents and strengthen focus on academics.
News360 Info reports that the Commissioner for Education, Prof. Bernard Ikegwuoha, disclosed the directive in a memo to parents, guardians, and education stakeholders across the state.
He also ordered school proprietors to stop the frequent change of textbooks, which he described as exploitative and financially draining for families.
According to Ikegwuoha, the measure is part of a new state policy aimed at promoting stability and efficiency in the education sector.
The memo, dated August 15, 2025, with reference number MOEPS/COMMR/2025/VOL.1/155, clarified that, in line with Nigeria’s 6-3-3-4 education system, only pupils in Primary 6 and Senior Secondary School (SS3) are permitted to attend graduation ceremonies.
“Henceforth, ceremonies and parties for kindergarten, nursery and JSS3 students are hereby abolished,” the commissioner stated.
On textbook usage, Ikegwuoha directed schools to adopt the approved list of textbooks and maintain them for at least four years, allowing siblings to reuse them.
He warned proprietors, especially those running private and faith-based schools, against arbitrary changes, stressing that the ministry would monitor compliance and sanction defaulters.
“By adopting the approved textbooks and allowing them to be used for the specified period, schools can promote a more efficient and effective learning environment,” he added.
