Benue State Bans Compulsory Extra Lessons in Schools

The Benue State Government has introduced new educational directives as schools resume for the 2026/2027 academic session. Commissioner for Education and Knowledge Management, Margaret Adamu, announced a ban on compulsory extra lessons during a press conference in Makurdi.

Schools are prohibited from requiring pupils and students to stay after regular hours for additional lessons. Parent-Teacher Associations wishing to organize extra lessons must obtain approval from the Ministry of Education, and participation must remain voluntary.

Adamu warned that institutions violating this directive would face sanctions. Additionally, schools are directed to use only approved textbooks and cannot force parents to buy customized or non-transferable books.

Textbook costs must not be included in school fees, allowing parents to purchase them from authorized sources. The commissioner reiterated restrictions on graduation ceremonies, permitting them only for recognized exit classes.

She also cautioned against violent birthday celebrations and emphasized the enforcement of rules against bullying and harassment among learners.