The Oyo State Government has announced a total ban on “sign out” celebrations by final-year students in both public and private secondary schools.
The move follows rising cases of unruly behaviour, violence, and disturbances linked to such activities.
“Sign out” events, where graduating students mark their final day by writing on uniforms, holding processions, and staging loud gatherings, have long been a tradition across Nigerian states. However, authorities in Oyo now say the practice disrupts public order and poses safety risks.
The Commissioner for Education, Science and Technology, Olusegun Olayiwola, disclosed the directive during the 2025/2026 pre-resumption meeting with public secondary school principals at Lagelu Grammar School, Ibadan, on Friday.
Olayiwola, through a statement issued by the Commissioner for Information and Orientation, Dotun Oyelade, also reminded schools of the existing restrictions on mobile phone usage, stressing that the devices distract from learning and could encourage cyberbullying.
He said, “Schools must remain free of violence, bullying, and intimidation to protect adolescents during their formative years.
“The State Government is using this period to officially ban “sign out” celebrations by final-year students in both public and private secondary schools across the state. This directive comes in response to increasing reports of misconduct, violence, and public disturbances associated with such events.
“In addition, principals are directed to recommend only government-approved textbooks, selected for their quality, reusability, and alignment with the curriculum. Compliance with these directives will be closely monitored by the ministry,” he warned.
The commissioner further urged principals to avoid illegal levies, ensure accessibility to education, and maintain staff punctuality.
Earlier, the Chairman of the Teaching Service Commission, Olubukola Oladipupo, encouraged teachers and principals to seek clarification before writing petitions, adding that she welcomed constructive dialogue to improve education in the state.
Permanent Secretary of the ministry, Bamidele Oyinloye, stressed adherence to school management rules, while education stakeholders, including ANCOPSS state president Akinoye Christopher and NUT leader Raji Oladimeji, commended Governor Seyi Makinde for prioritising teachers’ welfare and pledged cooperation for a smooth academic year.
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