State government bans extra lessons, phone use in schools
The Benue State Government has introduced new rules for schools as learners return for the 2026/2027 academic session, with restrictions placed on compulsory extra lessons, mobile phone use and graduation ceremonies for pupils who are not in exit classes.
The new directives were announced by the state Commissioner for Education and Knowledge Management, Dr. Margaret Adamu, as schools resumed across the state.
She directed proprietors, principals, headteachers and teachers in public and private schools to follow the approved rules and ensure that learners and staff comply with the requirements of the Ministry of Education and Knowledge Management.
Under the new policy, schools are not allowed to organise lessons after normal school hours unless approval has been obtained from the ministry.
Even when such lessons are approved, they must not be made compulsory for learners.
The government also stopped graduation ceremonies for children in Early Childhood Care, Development and Education, as well as those in Lower Basic and Middle Basic classes.
Graduation ceremonies will only be allowed for learners in classes that are completing their final stage and are expected to receive certificates.
These include Upper Basic 9, Senior Secondary School 3 and Technical 3.
The state government also placed restrictions on the use of mobile phones by learners.
Students and pupils are not permitted to possess or use mobile phones during school hours unless the use has been approved for a genuine educational purpose under the school’s rules.
The ministry further warned schools against the use of unapproved textbooks.
Only textbooks approved for teaching are to be used, while restricted or customised books that cannot be transferred to other learners have been prohibited.
Parents will also not be forced to buy textbooks directly from schools, as they are free to purchase approved books from other sources.
The cost of textbooks must not be included as part of school fees.
The commissioner also addressed the treatment of teachers and other school workers by parents and guardians.
Parents are not allowed to threaten, assault, intimidate or verbally abuse teachers, principals or other members of staff. Complaints are expected to be taken through the proper channels instead.
The government also banned violent birthday celebrations in schools.
Learners are not allowed to physically assault or mistreat classmates while celebrating their birthdays, whether in classrooms, hostels or other areas within the school.
Schools have also been told to tackle bullying, intimidation, harassment, hazing and other forms of violence among learners. School authorities are expected to provide a safe and respectful environment where students can learn without fear.
The ministry further stated that no individual, non-governmental organisation, group or outside body can enter a school to carry out programmes, research, advocacy or other activities without proper approval from the education ministry.
Learners are expected to arrive at school on time, attend classes regularly and remain within areas approved by school authorities during school hours. School heads are expected to deal with late coming, truancy and loitering.
The government also wants schools to give attention to civic education and patriotism.
Learners are expected to learn and correctly recite the Benue State Anthem, while the state and national anthems should be included in suitable school assemblies and civic activities.
The commissioner said the new school year should bring better results, with school heads expected to provide proper leadership, monitor teacher and learner attendance, maintain discipline, protect school property and keep accurate administrative and financial records.
She also urged school authorities to monitor the academic performance of learners throughout the session instead of waiting until the end of the school year before identifying problems.
The new rules are part of the state’s efforts to improve the standard of education, reduce unnecessary expenses for parents, strengthen discipline and improve the running of schools.
The government said it would increase supervision and monitoring across schools to ensure that the directives are being followed.
The administration of Governor Hyacinth Alia has also pointed to several education programmes, including the recruitment of more than 9,000 teachers, construction and renovation work in hundreds of public schools, free and compulsory basic education, scholarships for indigent students and the distribution of learning materials.
The state has also introduced the BRACE-UP programme, which is aimed at reducing the number of children who are out of school.
The education ministry warned that schools and individuals who fail to follow the approved rules could face sanctions under the relevant laws and regulations.
School proprietors and heads have therefore been directed to study the ministry’s existing policies and ensure that they are fully implemented throughout the new academic session.
