A growing number of Nigerian states and educational institutions are imposing bans on extravagant “sign-out” and graduation celebrations, citing concerns over misconduct, morality, and rising costs. The restrictions have sparked a nationwide debate among parents, students, and education stakeholders.
The most recent move came on July 24, 2025, when the Sokoto State Government announced a ban on all signing-out celebrations for graduating secondary school students in both public and private schools. Authorities linked the decision to increasing cases of vandalism and unruly behaviour during such events.
In Imo State, a directive issued on August 18, 2025, prohibited graduation parties for kindergarten, nursery, and JSS-3 pupils. The policy, aimed at discouraging what officials described as “unnecessary extravagance,” received support from the National Orientation Agency, which urged parents and schools to embrace modesty in marking children’s academic milestones.
Ondo State followed suit on August 27, 2025, introducing sweeping restrictions that barred graduation ceremonies for nursery, primary, and junior secondary schools. Officials said the measure was part of broader education reforms designed to reduce financial burdens on parents already struggling with high living costs.
The clampdown has also extended to universities. On August 20, 2025, authorities at Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka, announced an immediate ban on the long-standing tradition of final-year “signing-off” exam celebrations. The university management warned that any student who engaged in the practice risked disciplinary action.
For decades, signing-out has been a symbolic rite of passage in Nigerian schools, where students mark the completion of exams by wearing white shirts signed by friends and classmates. Over time, however, the practice has evolved into large-scale social gatherings, often involving loud music, street parades, and parties. Critics argue that these events now encourage indiscipline, reckless spending, and sometimes violence.
Reactions to the bans have been mixed. While many parents welcomed the move as a relief from financial pressure, others described it as an unnecessary clampdown on youthful expression. On social media, students expressed disappointment, insisting that signing-out fosters bonding and provides a memorable conclusion to years of study.
Education analysts warn that the debate reflects broader concerns about balancing tradition with discipline and financial prudence. As more states consider similar restrictions, the future of signing-out in Nigeria remains uncertain.
