The Abia State Government has reiterated its ban on the collection of graduation levies and graduation fees for pupils and students in non-terminal classes across public and private schools in the state.
In a press release issued by the Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education on July 10, 2026, the government reminded school owners, parents, and guardians that graduation ceremonies are officially recognized only for Primary 6 and Senior Secondary School 3 (SS3), as these are the terminal classes in the state’s basic and secondary education system.
According to the ministry, any graduation ceremony organized for non-terminal classes that requires compulsory payment from parents or students is unauthorized and must stop immediately.
The government emphasized that no public or private school is permitted to collect graduation fees or levies from pupils and students in any class other than Primary 6 and SS3.
The ministry disclosed that it has continued to receive reports that some schools are still imposing unauthorized graduation charges on students in non-terminal classes despite the existing directive.
To ensure full compliance, the Abia State Government has directed the Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education to commence immediate monitoring and enforcement across all schools in the state. It warned that any school found violating the directive would face sanctions in accordance with the law.
Parents, guardians, school proprietors, and other stakeholders have been urged to comply strictly with the government’s directive to eliminate illegal graduation charges.
The government also encouraged members of the public to report cases of non-compliance to the Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education through 08142978338 for prompt investigation and necessary action.
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The statement was signed by Duru Marvellous, Public Relations Officer, Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education, on behalf of the Honourable Commissioner.
