Soludo Bans Graduation Ceremonies, Christmas Parties In Anambra Schools

By Micheal Chukwuebuka

Governor Chukwuma Soludo of Anambra State has prohibited all forms of graduation ceremonies and Christmas parties in schools across the state as part of measures to ease financial burdens on parents and guardians.

Speaking during an All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) campaign rally in Awka North on Friday ahead of the November 8 governorship election, Soludo said the move was aimed at making education more affordable and equitable for all.

The governor expressed concern that many schools—government, private, and mission-owned—had turned education into a source of undue financial strain on families.

“This directive applies to all schools in Anambra. We are setting basic standards to ensure poor parents are not made to spend excessively because their children are in school,” Soludo stated.

He also announced a ban on the use of textbooks that require students to write directly in them, noting that such materials prevent reuse by younger siblings. “Once a child completes a class, he should be able to hand over his textbooks to another,” he added.

Soludo condemned the practice of organising elaborate graduation ceremonies for pupils merely advancing from one class to another, describing it as exploitative since it often forces parents to buy special outfits or uniforms.

“Even Christmas parties should not be funded by parents. These are unnecessary expenses,” he said firmly.

The governor warned that the state government would begin immediate enforcement of the new directive, cautioning that any school found in violation would be sealed. “If your school fails to comply, we will close it. You can go to court—we will meet there,” he warned.

Soludo reiterated his administration’s commitment to ensuring that every child in Anambra State has access to quality and affordable education.