The Federal Government has moved to protect the credibility of Nigeria's education system by banning new admissions into Senior Secondary 3 (SS3) classes.

To restore the integrity of the nation’s education system, the Federal Government has announced a significant policy change.

The Federal Ministry of Education, in a statement released on Sunday, has placed a blanket ban on admitting or transferring students into Senior Secondary School 3 (SS3) classes.

This directive applies to all public and private secondary schools across Nigeria. It is set to take full effect from the 2026/2027 academic session.

According to the Ministry’s spokesperson, Folasade Boriowo, the policy was triggered by serious and growing concerns. The government is taking aim at widespread examination malpractice and the notorious activities of so-called "special centres."

These practices have severely damaged the credibility of Nigeria’s secondary school certificates. The government states they will no longer be tolerated.

From the stated academic session, all student admissions and transfers will be limited to SS1 and SS2 classes only. The Ministry was unequivocal: admission into SS3 will not be permitted under any circumstance.

This intervention seeks to tackle a deep-rooted problem. By ensuring students spend a full, continuous cycle in a school, authorities believe they can better safeguard the examination process.

The goal is clear: to rebuild trust in the qualifications earned by Nigerian students and ensure they truly reflect years of genuine learning.