The Oyo State Government has officially prohibited “sign out” celebrations by final-year students in both public and private secondary schools across the state.
This decision was announced by the Commissioner for Education, Science and Technology, Olusegun Olayiwola, during the 2025/2026 pre-resumption meeting with public secondary school principals held at Lagelu Grammar School, Ibadan.
The ban is in response to increasing reports of misconduct, violence, and public disturbances associated with such events. “Sign out” celebrations, which typically involve students marking their final day with processions, writing on uniforms, loud gatherings, and sometimes street displays, have become common in many Nigerian states. However, the practice has also been linked to unruly behavior, vandalism, accidents, and public disturbances.
In addition to the ban, the commissioner reiterated the enforcement of the existing ban on mobile phone usage by students in schools. He emphasized that mobile devices pose significant distractions, facilitate access to non-educational content, and can contribute to cyberbullying and misconduct. Principals are also directed to recommend only government-approved textbooks that meet curriculum standards and are reusable.
The government emphasized the importance of maintaining a safe and violence-free environment in schools, protecting adolescents during their formative years. The commissioner commended principals for their dedication to shaping young minds and maintaining educational standards in the state. He stressed that no student should face financial barriers in pursuit of education and principals must avoid unauthorized levies or illegal fees.
Education stakeholders, including the All Nigeria Confederation of Principals of Secondary Schools and the Nigerian Union of Teachers, praised Governor Seyi Makinde for prioritizing teachers’ welfare and pledged their support for a successful academic year. The move reflects the government’s emphasis on student welfare, safety, and the preservation of a conducive learning environment.