Insecurity: Kwara Govt Bans School Graduation, Valedictory Ceremonies

Insecurity: Kwara Govt Bans School Graduation, Valedictory Ceremonies

The Kwara State Government has directed all public and private schools across the state to suspend graduation ceremonies, valedictory services, prize-giving days, and other end-of-session celebrations, citing prevailing security concerns and the need to safeguard students and school communities.

The directive was conveyed in an official letter signed by Mrs. Bunmi Osanupin, a director in the Ministry of Education and Human Capital Development, on behalf of the Commissioner for Education and Human Capital Development, Dr. Lawal Olohungbebe.

The letter, addressed to the Chairman of the Kwara State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB), Prof. Shehu Raheem Adaramaja, was made available to journalists in Ilorin on Friday.

According to the state government, the decision was taken in response to current security challenges and the need to maintain order, safety, and decorum within educational institutions across the state.

The ministry directed school proprietors, principals, headteachers, and administrators to ensure strict compliance with the directive, warning that any school found violating the order would face sanctions under existing regulations.

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“All school proprietors, principals, headteachers, and administrators are required to ensure strict compliance with this directive.

“Any school found to be in violation of this directive shall be liable to appropriate sanctions in accordance with existing regulations.

“By this notice, all concerned are advised to be guided accordingly,” the letter stated.

The government did not specify how long the suspension would remain in effect, but education authorities indicated that schools are expected to conclude academic activities without organising large gatherings that could pose security risks.

The decision comes amid growing concerns over security in parts of Kwara State and neighbouring North-Central states, where authorities have intensified efforts to prevent criminal attacks and protect public gatherings. Security agencies have repeatedly urged institutions and event organisers to adopt precautionary measures, especially during periods that attract large crowds.

Although graduation and valedictory ceremonies are traditionally held at the end of the academic session to celebrate graduating pupils and students, the state government said public safety must take precedence over social activities.

The directive affects nursery, primary, and secondary schools across the state, including privately owned institutions that typically organise elaborate end-of-year events.

Education stakeholders are expected to comply with the order while awaiting further guidance from the Ministry of Education and Human Capital Development on alternative arrangements for marking the end of the 2025/2026 academic session.

The latest directive underscores the Kwara State Government’s commitment to prioritising the safety of students, teachers, parents, and school administrators amid evolving security challenges.

Insecurity: Kwara Govt Bans School Graduation, Valedictory Ceremonies