By Zaharaddeen Ishaq Abubakar | Katsina Times
Katsina – September 2, 2025
The National Orientation Agency (NOA) has expressed deep concern over the rising trend of indecent and extreme graduation practices among students, describing the development as a threat to societal values of discipline, respect, and morality.
Speaking at a press briefing held on Tuesday at the Federal Secretariat, Kano Road, Katsina, NOA Director-General, Mallam Lanre Issa-Onilu—represented by the Director of Reform Coordination and Service Improvement, Mr. John Bala—called for an end to the growing culture of unruly “sign-out” celebrations.
Mr. Bala lamented that these events have increasingly become associated with acts of immorality, including alcohol and drug abuse, public nudity, and even self-inflicted injuries, all in the name of marking graduation.
“Some strip themselves naked, others indulge in alcohol and smoking, while some even cut themselves to prove they are celebrating the end of school. This contradicts our values of morality, discipline, and the religious principles we hold dear,” he stressed.
He further criticised the financial pressure such practices place on parents, noting that students often demand money for lavish parties even before examination results are released.
According to the agency, graduation ceremonies were once regarded as solemn moments of thanksgiving, parental blessings, and prayers for future success, but have now degenerated into displays that undermine cultural and religious norms.
As part of its mandate to promote national values, NOA announced the launch of a nationwide sensitisation campaign targeting schools, parents, community leaders, and the media, to curb the negative trend.
Mr. Bala urged schools, parents, and religious leaders to work collectively to end the menace, while emphasising that the media also has a vital role to play in public enlightenment.
The sensitisation drive, he said, forms part of NOA’s nationwide campaign for 2025, which focuses on five key areas:
The Katsina briefing was attended by the State Director of NOA, Mukhtar Lawal Tsagyam, along with other state and FCT directors.
NOA reiterated that instilling discipline and moral values among students remains central to building a brighter future for Nigeria.
