Ogun bans graduation ceremonies, end-of-session parties

The Ogun State Ministry of Education, Science, and Technology has directed all public and private schools across the state to immediately discontinue the organisation of graduation ceremonies and end-of-session parties.

The directive was contained in a circular issued by the Department of Private Schools in Abeokuta, the Ogun State capital.

It was addressed to administrators of both public and non-state (private) schools through Zonal Education Officers.

According to the ministry, reports had reached the government that some school administrators were allegedly extorting parents and guardians under the guise of organising graduation and end-of-session celebrations for learners. 

The ministry noted that such actions are contrary to resolutions reached during the 2025/2026 pre-resumption stakeholders’ meeting held in September 2025 at Lisabi Grammar School Hall, Abeokuta.

The circular emphasised that the Ogun State Government frowns on the organisation of graduation and end-of-session parties for pupils and students in all classes across both public and private schools in the state.

“As a result, no school owner should organize such gatherings henceforth,” the ministry stated.

The government further warned that any school found violating the directive would face appropriate sanctions.

School administrators have also been instructed to give the circular the widest publicity possible to ensure compliance among stakeholders.

The circular was signed by A. A. Bisiriyu, the Director of Education (Private Schools), on behalf of the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Education, Science and Technology.