•Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State
The Oyo State government has officially banned “sign out” celebrations by final-year students in all public and private schools across the state.
The directive follows growing reports of misconduct, violence, and public disturbances linked to such events, reports The Nation.
Commissioner for Education, Science and Technology, Olusegun Olayiwola, announced the decision during the 2025/2026 pre-resumption meeting with secondary school principals held at Lagelu Grammar School, Ibadan.
Olayiwola also reiterated the enforcement of the existing ban on mobile phone use by students, noting that the devices distract from learning, expose students to non-educational content, and contribute to cyberbullying and misconduct.
He commended principals for their commitment to shaping young minds while cautioning against unauthorized levies or illegal fees that could hinder access to education.
He also emphasised punctuality, active teaching engagement, and the importance of maintaining safe, violence-free schools.
The commissioner further directed schools to recommend only government-approved textbooks that meet curriculum standards and are reusable, stressing that compliance will be closely monitored.
In her goodwill message, the Chairman of the Teaching Service Commission, Mrs. Olubukola Oladipupo, encouraged constructive dialogue between teachers and authorities for the improvement of education.
Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Education, Science and Technology, Mrs. Bamidele Oyinloye, reiterated the need for diligence and strict adherence to regulations in school management.
Education stakeholders, including ANCOPSS State President Comrade Akinoye Christopher and NUT Chairman Comrade Raji Oladimeji, praised Governor Seyi Makinde for prioritizing teachers’ welfare and pledged their support for a successful academic year.
