The Niger State Government has directed all private schools to stop organising graduation ceremonies, replacing them with Speech and Prize-Giving Ceremonies to celebrate students’ achievements.
The directive, issued through the Niger State Private Schools Board, is part of efforts to regulate end-of-session activities and curb the growing trend of extravagant graduation celebrations in private schools.
In a statement released by the Ministry of Information and Orientation’s Directorate of Information Services, the government explained that schools should use Speech and Prize-Giving Ceremonies to recognise students for academic excellence, good character, leadership and other notable accomplishments.
Authorities said lavish graduation events have become increasingly expensive, placing unnecessary financial pressure on parents while encouraging unhealthy competition among schools.
The government also expressed concern that many of these ceremonies have shifted away from their educational purpose, with excessive spending and commercial interests taking precedence over celebrating students’ academic success.
According to the statement, the new policy is designed to promote moderation, strengthen discipline and ensure that end-of-session activities remain focused on educational achievements and learning outcomes.
To facilitate implementation, the Niger State Private Schools Board, in collaboration with the Ministry of Information and Orientation and other relevant stakeholders, will conduct statewide awareness campaigns to educate schools, parents and the public about the directive.
Information officers and community mobilisation teams have also been assigned to engage school administrators, parents and local communities to encourage compliance.
The state government reaffirmed its commitment to raising educational standards and protecting the interests of students and parents, urging all stakeholders to support the initiative as a move toward greater discipline, uniformity and academic excellence in schools.
