The Benue State Government has announced an immediate ban on graduation ceremonies for kindergarten, nursery, and primary schools, warning that any school that fails to comply will face sanctions.
The Acting Commissioner for Education and Knowledge Management, Mrs. Helen Nambativ, disclosed the decision in Makurdi on Tuesday, stressing that the policy is designed to ease financial pressure on parents and restore focus to academics.
“This policy is people-oriented and will help sanitise the education sector, particularly at the basic levels,” Nambativ said. “Any school that refuses to comply in the 2025/2026 academic session risks temporary closure and possible withdrawal of operating rights.”
She explained that the state government would establish a task force to monitor compliance, adding that the policy aligns with reforms introduced in an earlier circular issued on August 21.
According to the memo, the move seeks to curb unnecessary financial demands placed on parents, such as payment for graduation events involving children as young as three, and the compulsory purchase of customised books that cannot be reused.
“The unpopular use of restricted, customised education materials, such as branded text and exercise books, is hereby abolished. Schools must return to the traditional practice where senior pupils pass books down to junior classes,” the memo stated.
It also prohibited compulsory extended lessons after school hours, except when expressly approved by parents.
While some parents welcomed the decision, a section of school owners expressed reservations. A proprietor in Makurdi, who requested anonymity, argued that the timing was hasty.
“The government should have engaged stakeholders before making the announcement. Many schools already bought the now-banned books, so at least one academic session’s grace should have been given,” he said.
On the other hand, a parent, Mr. James Bemgba, praised the government’s stance.
“Forcing parents to pay for graduation parties for toddlers and to buy unnecessary books is an exploitation. This policy has lifted a huge burden off us,” Bemgba said.
The government maintained that the reforms would be enforced immediately and urged schools to prioritise the educational needs of children over social celebrations.
