NOA commends the Imo State’s graduation ban for younger students, calling it a positive move to instill discipline and reduce pressure on parents

Imo State’s graduation ban for younger students has received public commendation from the National Orientation Agency (NOA), which described the policy as a welcome move towards restoring discipline and curbing excesses in Nigeria’s education culture.

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The Imo State Government recently announced a ban on elaborate graduation parties for pupils in nursery, primary, and junior secondary schools.

The decision, which aims to discourage ostentatious celebrations at early education levels, has sparked conversations nationwide.

Mallam Lanre Issa-Onilu, Director General of NOA, praised the policy, highlighting that it addresses a growing culture of extravagance and misplaced priorities among young learners.

He noted that such celebrations often place unnecessary financial burdens on parents and promote a distorted understanding of achievement and reward.

“This move by the Imo State Government is timely and commendable,” Issa-Onilu said. “We need to shift our focus from flashy celebrations to quality education and responsible upbringing.”

The NOA further applauded the government’s directive to stop the yearly change of textbooks by school proprietors, a practice that often drains household finances unnecessarily.

According to NOA, allowing graduation ceremonies only for Primary 6 and Senior Secondary students aligns with Nigeria’s 6-3-3-4 education structure, reinforcing proper educational milestones while promoting consistency.

The agency called on other states to adopt similar measures to strengthen value orientation in the education sector.

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It reaffirmed its commitment to supporting such policies through nationwide campaigns aimed at promoting modesty, discipline, and long-term success values among Nigerian youth.