The 2025 West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE) ended on Wednesday amid widespread jubilation by graduating secondary school students across Nigeria. While celebrations following the conclusion of such a significant academic milestone are expected, this year’s post-exam “signing-out” activities have drawn sharp criticism due to reports of inappropriate behavior by teenagers in several parts of the country.
In many states, including Lagos, Osun, Oyo, and Rivers, videos and eyewitness accounts show students engaging in conduct widely deemed indecent. Parents and educators describe scenes involving suggestive dancing and physical contact among teenagers, which some observers say cross acceptable social boundaries. Mrs. Grace Ogundele, a parent in Lagos, expressed concern: “The kind of behavior displayed during these celebrations is shocking. It is not what we expect from young people who should be preparing for their future.”
In Ikire, Osun State, post-exam celebrations took a more troubling turn as groups of students were seen openly pumping alcoholic drinks and performing dances described by some community members as immoral. Mr. Adewale Oladipo, a trader near the celebration site, observed, “The students were loudly celebrating, but some of the dances and actions were inappropriate for their age. It’s concerning to see such behavior happening so openly in our community.”
These incidents, involving mostly students aged 15 to 17 years, have raised concerns about the moral and civic values being taught within Nigeria’s education system. A professor from Obafemi Awolowo University’s Faculty of Education explained, “While completing secondary school is a moment of joy, it should also reinforce positive values. Unfortunately, some of these celebrations seem to undermine the core principles of discipline and respect that schools are meant to instill.”
The Nigeria Education News records troubling scenes in Oyo State during signing-out celebrations, where students displayed a lack of discipline. Observers noted groups of male and female students drinking alcohol openly and engaging in dances that many described as sexually suggestive. These behaviors have sparked concern among community members about the moral direction and supervision of secondary school students during such events.
Nigeria’s secondary education system continues to face numerous challenges, including academic performance issues. The WAEC’s 2023 results indicated that only 61% of candidates nationwide achieved five credits, including English and Mathematics. Analysts warn that distractions like those observed during these celebrations could further hamper students’ academic achievements.
Education expert Chika Nwokedi highlighted the potential consequences, saying, “Celebratory excesses, if left unchecked, may detract from the focus required for academic success and personal development. The excitement of finishing exams should not translate into behavior that jeopardizes students’ futures.”
Mental health professionals have also weighed in, underscoring the need for proper guidance and emotional support for adolescents. Dr. Ifeoma Nnaji, a clinical psychologist in Enugu, emphasized, “Many teenagers lack sufficient mentorship and structured support. These celebrations sometimes reveal deeper needs for emotional regulation and positive role models.”
Calls for a coordinated response are growing louder, with many urging the Federal Ministry of Education to introduce clear policies to regulate end-of-exam celebrations across the country. “This is not about suppressing youthful joy but about protecting the dignity of our students and the reputation of our education system,” said one concerned observer.
Parents’ associations have also advocated for stronger engagement with schools during exam periods to promote discipline and appropriate behaviour. The National Parent-Teacher Association of Nigeria (NAPTAN) encouraged joint efforts between families and educational institutions to create safer and more respectful environments.
Although the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) examinations concluded recently, many students now prepare for post-JAMB admissions and further education pathways. Stakeholders emphasize that this transition requires students to demonstrate both academic readiness and personal responsibility.
Educational policymakers are urged to consider integrating life skills, ethics, and civic education more robustly into secondary school curricula. Experts agree that these elements are crucial to fostering well-rounded graduates capable of contributing positively to society. School administrators are also encouraged to establish structured graduation protocols that balance celebration with respect for social norms. Some schools have reportedly begun piloting such measures, with promising results.
Ultimately, the recent incidents during WAEC signing-out ceremonies highlight the urgent need for Nigeria’s education authorities to address not only academic standards but also students’ social and moral development. This comprehensive approach is especially vital for government-owned secondary schools, where the majority of such behaviors have been observed. Such measures are seen as essential for safeguarding the nation’s future. As the excitement of exam season subsides, attention now turns to how the Federal Ministry of Education and related bodies will respond to restore order, discipline, and dignity in Nigerian secondary schools.
The conclusion of the 2025 WAEC exams marks not only an academic milestone but also a critical moment to reflect on the values underpinning Nigeria’s education system and the type of citizens it seeks to nurture.
