The Imo State Government has announced a ban on elaborate graduation parties for pupils in nursery, primary, and junior secondary schools, effective immediately.

 

In a memo dated August 15, 2025, Commissioner for Education, Prof. Bernard Ikegwuoha, directed that only Primary 6 and Senior Secondary School 3 (SSS3) students may hold graduation ceremonies, in line with Nigeria’s 6-3-3-4 education system.

 

Ikegwuoha explained that the measure was aimed at reducing financial pressure on parents while ensuring that celebrations are reserved for major academic milestones.

 

“The Ministry is committed to providing quality and functional education. This policy promotes affordability, stability, and fairness in the education sector,” the commissioner said.

 

He also announced that private and faith-based schools would no longer be allowed to change textbooks annually. Instead, textbooks must be retained for at least four years to ease costs and enable siblings to share materials.

 

“Proprietors must adhere to the approved textbook list to reduce costs and maintain consistency,” Ikegwuoha stressed.

 

Meanwhile, the National Orientation Agency (NOA) has commended the state government’s decision, describing it as a timely step toward promoting value reorientation among young learners.

 

In a statement, NOA Director-General, Mallam Lanre Issa-Onilu, said the culture of lavish graduation parties fosters unrealistic expectations of instant rewards, encourages extravagance, and places undue financial strain on parents.

 

“Early exposure to such practices distorts the values of hard work, humility, and delayed gratification, which are essential for personal growth and national development,” he noted.

 

Issa-Onilu added that the agency would continue working with governments, schools, and parents to encourage discipline, modesty, and responsible upbringing among children. He explained that the ban aligned with NOA’s recent campaign against extreme social practices.

 

On the issue of textbooks, the DG said the policy would significantly lower the financial burden on families, making education more affordable and accessible.

 

He urged other states to adopt similar policies, noting that they promote a disciplined, value-driven educational culture rooted in resilience and perseverance.

 

“This policy contributes to a healthier educational environment by emphasising academic focus over extravagant celebrations during the early stages of schooling,” Issa-Onilu said.