Abia State Government Bans Graduation Ceremonies for Non-Exit Classes, Introduces New Education Reforms

Abia State has announced a major shake-up in its school system — banning graduation parties for pupils who are not in Primary Six or SS3, scrapping compulsory textbook-workbook sales, and placing strict limits on certificate fees.

Why Abia Banned Graduation Ceremonies

At its latest State Executive Council meeting, Governor Alex Otti and his team approved new rules affecting both public and private schools.

According to the Commissioner for Information, Prince Okey Kanu, only pupils completing Primary Six and students in SS3 are now allowed to hold graduation ceremonies.

The government explained that the move followed extensive consultations with key education stakeholders, including WAEC, NECO, the Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT), ANCOPS, and book publishers.

For many parents, the decision comes as a relief. No more endless requests for costumes, rehearsals, and “graduation fees” for children who are simply moving from one class to another.

“This reform is meant to reduce unnecessary spending and protect parents from exploitation,” Kanu said.

---

New Rules on Textbooks and Workbooks

Another significant change is the separation of textbooks and workbooks. Previously, publishers sold both together, preventing families from reusing textbooks for younger children.

The Commissioner for Basic and Secondary Education, Elder Goodluck Ubochi, clarified that from now on:

• Textbooks can be reused by siblings or resold.
• Workbooks will remain personal assignment books for each student.

This policy is expected to cut costs for parents struggling with high school expenses.

Teachers, Training, and Deployment

Ubochi further revealed that newly recruited teachers recently completed two weeks of intensive training focused on modern classroom techniques.

Their postings will be announced soon, with extra incentives planned for those deployed to rural or hard-to-reach communities.

Strict Fee Limits for Certificates

The government also set new limits on school certificate fees:

• Primary Six and Basic Education certificates: Maximum ₦2,000
• Secondary School certificates: Maximum ₦4,000

Schools have been warned not to exceed these amounts, as the government seeks to end the era of arbitrary charges.

Reform Backed by Key Officials

The announcement was made alongside the Commissioner for Health, Prof. Enoch Ogbonnaya, and the Governor’s Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Mr. Ferdinand Ekeoma.

Together, they stressed that these reforms are about fairness, transparency, and easing the financial burden on families — not punishment for schools.

What This Means for Parents and Students

For parents tired of constant levies and “graduation” expenses, these reforms could bring financial relief. For students, it signals a shift toward focusing on real academic milestones rather than expensive ceremonies.

You may also like to read: Abia State University Elevates Nursing Education with New Faculty of Nursing Sciences