FG Slams Door on SS3 Admissions, Transfers Nationwide to Stamp Out Exam Malpractice

In a decisive move to protect the integrity of Nigeria’s Education System, 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 Secondary Schools.

The directive was issued by the Federal Ministry of Education in a press release dated December 14, 2025, and signed by the Director of Press and Public Relations, Boriowo Folasade. The Ministry said the policy was introduced in response to growing concerns over the rising incidence of examination malpractice across the Country.

According to the statement, the ban targets unethical practices such as the use of so-called “special centres” during external examinations, which the Ministry said have continued to undermine the credibility and integrity of Nigeria’s education system.

“The increasing incidence of examination malpractice, including the use of special centres during external examinations, undermines the integrity and credibility of Nigeria’s education system,” the Ministry stated.

The Federal Government disclosed that the policy will take effect from the 2026/2027 academic session. From that period, admissions and transfers will be strictly limited to Senior Secondary School One (SS1) and Senior Secondary School Two (SS2).

“The policy will take effect from the next academic calendar, 2026/2027, with admissions and transfers now restricted strictly to SS1 and SS2,” the statement said. “Admission or transfer into SS3 will no longer be permitted under any circumstance.”

Explaining the rationale behind the decision, the Ministry noted that the measure was aimed at curbing the late movement of students into Secondary Schools for examination-related advantages. It added that the policy would also enhance proper academic monitoring and promote continuity in teaching and learning.

“The measure is aimed at discouraging last-minute movement of students for examination-related advantages, ensuring proper academic monitoring, and promoting continuity in teaching and learning,” the statement read.

The Federal Ministry of Education has directed school Proprietors, Principals, and Administrators Nationwide to ensure full compliance with the new directive. It warned that any breach of the policy would attract sanctions in line with existing education regulations and guidelines.

“School Proprietors, Principals, and Administrators Nationwide have been directed to comply fully with the policy,” the ministry stated, adding that “any violation will attract appropriate sanctions.”

Reaffirming its broader education reform agenda, the Ministry said the directive forms part of the Federal Government’s ongoing efforts to safeguard academic standards, promote fairness, and restore public confidence in public examinations across Nigeria.