A ban on ostentatious graduation parties in some Nigerian states has sparked a heated debate between education officials, parents, and school proprietors.
Authorities in Ondo State said the prohibition was designed to protect families from “unnecessary financial exploitation” by schools and to shift the emphasis back to academic learning. Similar moves are being enforced in Osun, where officials said they regularly engage private schools to prevent excessive charges for end-of-year events.
But the policy has drawn sharp criticism from some education stakeholders. Teachers and school proprietors argue that graduation ceremonies provide pupils with a sense of achievement, boost morale, and allow schools to reward academic excellence. “These children need to be celebrated,” said Deborah Fakorede, a school owner in Ondo, who urged regulation rather than prohibition.
Supporters of the ban, however, say schools have abused the events, using them as opportunities to charge parents for costly gowns, decorations, and parties. “All these ceremonies are to siphon money from parents,” said Ondo lawmaker Kolawole Ologede.
Experts are also divided. While some argue that banning ceremonies removes the emotional and motivational benefits for pupils, others insist that moderation is key. Suggestions include replacing lavish celebrations with modest recognition through certificates, commendations, and parent-teacher events.
The controversy underscores a broader tension in Nigeria’s education sector: balancing the desire to celebrate milestones with the need to prevent exploitation and excessive costs.
