The management of Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka, has announced a ban on the popular tradition of “signing off” celebrations by final-year students, describing the practice as a major threat to safety and order on campus.
The announcement was contained in a statement issued on Tuesday by the Registrar, Dr. Chinenye Okeke, who said the ban takes immediate effect.
For years, graduating students at UNIZIK have marked the end of their final examinations with loud gatherings, shirt-signing, spraying of powders, and other activities. While seen as a moment of joy and freedom, the university explained that these celebrations often turn unruly, leading to chaos, violence, and disruptions to academic activities.
“These activities have led to incidents of disorder, destruction of property, and the infiltration of campus by unauthorised individuals,” Okeke said. “Management cannot allow such conduct to compromise the safety and well-being of our students, staff, and wider university community.”
The statement warned that students who participate in signing-off activities would face strict disciplinary measures, including possible rustication. It also added that outsiders who attempt to join in the celebrations within the university premises could be arrested and prosecuted for breach of peace and disorderly conduct.
According to Okeke, the decision is part of management’s duty to protect lives, maintain order, and preserve university property. She assured that the institution remains committed to providing a safe academic environment where learning can thrive without unnecessary distractions.
“The welfare of our students comes first,” she said. “We urge all students to focus on their academic responsibilities and report any misconduct or threats to security to the appropriate authorities. We will not tolerate actions that undermine the peace and progress of the university.”
The “signing off” tradition is popular across many Nigerian universities, where final-year students mark the conclusion of their examinations by parading in customized shirts, singing, dancing, and celebrating. At UNIZIK, however, management insists the practice has grown into a public safety concern rather than a harmless show of excitement.
With this directive, the university has drawn a clear line that graduation joy must not come at the expense of security and academic order.