Oyo State Bans “Sign Out” Celebrations For Final-Year Secondary Students

Oyo State Government has officially banned “sign out” celebrations by final-year students in all public and private secondary schools across the state. The directive follows rising reports of misconduct, violence, and public disturbances linked to these events.

“Sign out” celebrations, where graduating students mark their last day with processions, uniform writing, loud gatherings, and occasional street displays, have become a common practice in many Nigerian states. While often seen as a rite of passage, they have also been associated with vandalism, accidents, and unruly behavior.

The state’s decision reflects broader efforts to enforce discipline in schools, including restrictions on mobile phone use, monitoring the use of approved textbooks, and preventing illegal levies. The government emphasizes student welfare, safety, and creating a conducive learning environment.

Commissioner for Education, Science and Technology, Olusegun Olayiwola, announced the ban during the 2025/2026 pre-resumption meeting with public secondary school principals at Lagelu Grammar School, Ibadan. In a statement released by the Commissioner for Information and Orientation, Dotun Oyelade, Olayiwola also reaffirmed the enforcement of the existing ban on mobile phones in schools, citing their potential for distraction, access to non-educational content, and 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. This comes in response to increasing reports of misconduct, violence, and public disturbances associated with such events.”

Principals are also directed to recommend only government-approved textbooks that meet quality standards and align with the curriculum. Compliance will be closely monitored by the ministry.

Olayiwola commended principals for their commitment to maintaining educational standards and stressed that students should not face financial barriers in pursuing education. He urged school leaders to avoid unauthorized levies and ensure staff punctuality and active engagement in teaching while prioritizing student safety and security.

The Chairman of the Teaching Service Commission, Olubukola Oladipupo, encouraged principals and teachers to seek clarification before filing petitions and expressed openness to constructive dialogue for improving education in the state.

Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Education, Science and Technology, Bamidele Oyinloye, emphasized the importance of diligence and adherence to school regulations. Representatives of key education bodies, including the state President of the All Nigeria Confederation of Principals of Secondary Schools, Akinoye Christopher, and the state Nigerian Union of Teachers, Raji Oladimeji, praised Governor Seyi Makinde for prioritizing worker welfare and pledged support for a successful academic year.