The Oyo State Government, on Friday, officially banned “sign out” celebrations by final-year students in both public and private schools across the state.
It noted that the directive was in response to increasing reports of misconducts, violence, and public disturbances associated with such events.
The Oyo State government, in a press release by the Commissioner for Information, Prince Dotun Oyelade, also reinforced the prohibition of usage of mobile phones in schools.
The state Commissioner for Education, Science and Technology, Hon. Olusegun Olayiwola, announced these during the 2025/2026 pre-resumption meeting with principals of public secondary Schools, held at Lagelu Grammar School, Ibadan.
Oyo reaffirms phone ban in schools
He restated the enforcement of the existing ban on mobile phone usage by students in schools, emphasising that such devices pose significant distractions, facilitate access to non-educational content, and can contribute to cyberbullying and misconduct.
The commissioner commended school principals in Oyo State 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, adding that principals must avoid unauthorised levies or illegal fees to ensure education remains accessible.
Hon. Olayiwola further highlighted the importance of staff punctuality and active engagement in teaching, while underscoring the need to maintain student safety and security.
He stressed that schools must remain free of violence, bullying, and intimidation to protect adolescents during their formative years.
In addition, the principals were directed to recommend only government-approved textbooks, selected for their quality, reusability, and in alignment with the curriculum.
The commissioner further stressed that compliance with the directives will be closely monitored by the Oyo State Ministry of Education.
Earlier in her goodwill message, Chairman of the state Teaching Service Commission, Mrs. Olubukola Oladipupo, urged school principals and teachers to seek clarification before writing petitions.
She emphasised her openness to constructive dialogue for the improvement of education in the state.
The Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Education, Science and Technology, Mrs. Bamidele Oyinloye, in her welcome address, restated the importance of diligence and adherence to rules and regulations in school management.
Representatives of key education bodies,praised Governor ‘Seyi Makinde for prioritising the welfare of workers, particularly teachers.
The representatives, including the state President of All Nigeria Confederation of Principals of Secondary Schools (ANCOPSS), Comrade Akinoye Christopher, and state Chairman, Nigerian Union of Teachers (NUT), Comrade Raji Oladimeji, pledged their support to make the academic year successful and impactful for students.
