The Oyo State Government has officially banned “sign out” celebrations by final-year students in both public and private secondary schools across the state.
The directive, announced by the Commissioner for Education, Science and Technology, Olusegun Olayiwola, aims to curb rising cases of student misconduct, violence, and public disturbances linked to such events.
“Sign out” celebrations where graduating students parade the streets, write on uniforms, and hold loud gatherings have over the years been associated with vandalism, accidents, bullying, and unruly behavior in several Nigerian schools.
Speaking at the 2025/2026 pre-resumption meeting with principals in Ibadan, Olayiwola said the government is prioritising student safety, discipline, and a conducive learning environment.
“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 Oyo State.
“This directive comes in response to increasing reports of misconduct, violence, and public disturbances associated with such events.”
The commissioner also reaffirmed the ban on mobile phones in schools, noting that they distract students, expose them to non-educational content, and fuel cases of cyberbullying.
In addition, principals were directed to adopt only government-approved textbooks to ensure quality learning and affordability.
Olayiwola further warned against illegal levies, stressing that no child should face financial barriers to education in Oyo State.
Other education stakeholders, including the Chairman of the Teaching Service Commission, Olubukola Oladipupo, and the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Education, Bamidele Oyinloye, backed the new directives, commending Governor Seyi Makinde for prioritising education, discipline, and student welfare.
The ban is expected to reshape how students celebrate their graduation while strengthening discipline and safety in Oyo schools.
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