Five Nigerian Universities That Have Placed Bans on Sign-Out Ceremonies

At least five Nigerian universities and polytechnics have officially banned the popular “sign-out” tradition among final-year students, citing misconduct, safety concerns, and the need to protect institutional image.

The tradition, usually marked by students wearing white outfits and allowing friends to scribble farewell messages on them, is seen as a joyful rite of passage. For many, it celebrates resilience, friendship, and the completion of years of study. But reports of rowdiness, vandalism, and disruption of academic activities have made it controversial in several institutions.

Here are five schools that have recently outlawed sign-out celebrations:

• Nnamdi Azikiwe University (UNIZIK), Awka – In 2025, the school imposed a ban to restore discipline and reduce disorder during graduation.

• Federal University, Lafia (FULafia) – Also in 2025, management announced a prohibition to protect the university’s image and ensure safety.

• Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida University (IBBU), Lapai – In 2024, the school banned the tradition after repeated incidents of misconduct.

• Kaduna Polytechnic (KadPoly) – Authorities halted sign-out in 2024, citing concerns over unruly gatherings and damage to property.

• Isa Mustapha Agwai I Polytechnic (IMAP), Lafia – In 2024, management announced a ban to safeguard facilities and uphold campus decorum.

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University administrators argue that such bans are necessary to maintain discipline, while some parents and alumni believe the tradition could be better regulated instead of scrapped.

Observers say the development highlights ongoing tensions between preserving student celebrations and maintaining order in Nigeria’s higher institutions. Many hope that alternative, safer ways of marking graduation milestones will emerge in the coming years.