State Government Bans Extra Lessons, Phone Use In Schools
The Benue State Government has banned compulsory extra lessons, unauthorized use of mobile phones and graduation ceremonies for learners who are not in exit classes as schools resume for the 2026/2027 academic session.
The new directives were issued by the Commissioner for Education and Knowledge Management, Dr. Margaret Adamu, who ordered school proprietors, principals, headteachers and teachers to comply with the approved rules.
Under the new policy, schools are not allowed to conduct lessons after normal school hours. Parent-Teacher Associations that want extra lessons must first obtain approval from the Ministry of Education and Knowledge Management, while approved lessons must not be made compulsory for learners.
The government also prohibited graduation ceremonies for learners in Early Childhood Care, Development and Education, Lower Basic and Middle Basic classes.
Graduation ceremonies will only be allowed for exit classes that are expected to receive certificates, including Upper Basic 9, SS3 and Technical 3.
The state government also banned learners from possessing or using mobile phones during school hours, except when such use has been specifically authorized for legitimate educational purposes under the school’s guidelines.
On textbooks, the ministry directed schools to use only approved main textbooks for teaching. Restricted or customised books that cannot be transferred between learners are prohibited.
However, parents are free to purchase approved textbooks from schools or other sources, while the cost of textbooks must not be included in school fees.
The government also warned against violent birthday celebrations in schools, where learners physically manhandle classmates celebrating their birthdays.
School authorities were directed to prevent such practices in classrooms, hostels and other school areas.
Parents and guardians were also warned against assaulting, threatening, intimidating or verbally abusing teachers, principals and other school workers.
The government said grievances involving schools should be handled through the appropriate channels.
The ministry further stated that individuals, non-governmental organisations, organisations or other external bodies cannot enter schools to conduct programmes, research, advocacy or interventions without proper authorisation.
Learners are expected to resume on time, attend classes regularly and remain within approved school areas during school hours.
School authorities have been directed to deal with lateness, truancy and loitering.
The new rules also prohibit bullying, intimidation, harassment, hazing and other forms of violence among learners.
Schools are expected to provide safe and respectful environments for students.
The commissioner directed school heads to ensure that learners are taught to properly recite the Benue State Anthem.
The state and national anthems are also expected to form part of appropriate school assemblies and civic activities.
School heads were further instructed to monitor the attendance of teachers and learners, maintain discipline, protect school facilities, keep proper administrative and financial records and regularly assess academic performance.
The government said the measures were introduced to improve discipline in schools, reduce unnecessary financial pressure on parents, strengthen school management and improve the quality of education across the state.
