Photo File: The state Commissioner for Education, Science and Technology, Olusegun Olayiwola and other stakeholders during the meeting in Ibadan

The Oyo State Government has banned “sign out” celebrations by final-year students in public and private secondary schools across the state, citing rising cases of misconduct, violence and public disturbances linked to the practice.

“Sign out” celebrations, in which graduating students mark their last day with processions, writing on uniforms, loud gatherings and street displays, have long been seen as a rite of passage in many Nigerian states but have increasingly been associated with unruly behaviour, vandalism, accidents and disruption of public order.

Commissioner for Education, Science and Technology Olusegun Olayiwola announced the ban during the 2025/2026 pre-resumption meeting with public secondary school principals held at Lagelu Grammar School, Ibadan, on Friday. The meeting was attended by other key education stakeholders.

In a statement issued by the Commissioner for Information and Orientation, Dotun Oyelade, Olayiwola also reiterated the enforcement of the existing ban on mobile phone use by students in schools. He said such devices distract learners, expose them to non-educational content and can fuel cyberbullying and misconduct.

“Schools must remain free of violence, bullying, and intimidation to protect adolescents during their formative years,” he said. “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 commended principals for their dedication to shaping young minds and maintaining educational standards, stressing that no student should face financial barriers to schooling. He directed principals to avoid unauthorised levies or illegal fees to ensure education remains accessible and emphasised staff punctuality, active teaching engagement and the need to maintain student safety.

Earlier, Chairman of the Teaching Service Commission Olubukola Oladipupo urged principals and teachers to seek clarification before writing petitions and emphasised her openness to constructive dialogue to improve education in the state.

In her welcome address, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Education, Science and Technology Bamidele Oyinloye reiterated the importance of diligence and adherence to rules and regulations in school management.

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 the welfare of teachers and pledged support to make the academic year successful and impactful for students.