UNIZIK Bans “Signing Off” Ceremony for Final-Year Students, Warns of Stiff Penalties for Defaulters

Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka (UNIZIK), has officially placed an indefinite ban on the popular “signing off” tradition usually carried out by final-year students after examinations. The decision, announced on 19th August 2025 through an internal memorandum signed by the Registrar, Dr. Chinenye Gloria Okeke, takes immediate effect.

According to the memo, the ban became necessary following repeated cases of chaos, violence, and disruption of normal university activities linked to the event. The management also raised concerns over the presence of unauthorized individuals who often infiltrate the campus during the celebrations, posing security risks to both students and staff.

The University emphasized that the “signing off” practices have grown into unruly gatherings, sometimes resulting in disorderly conduct, threats to safety, and property damage. In response, the management has declared that any student found engaging in the act will face severe disciplinary actions, including possible rustication.

The memo also warned outsiders against entering the campus to partake in or encourage the banned activity, stressing that violators risk arrest and prosecution for breach of peace.

Reaffirming its commitment to safety and academic excellence, UNIZIK urged students to concentrate on their academic responsibilities and report any misconduct or threats to the appropriate authorities.

With this move, the institution joins other universities across Nigeria in clamping down on rowdy final-year “sign out” celebrations, prioritizing safety and order over tradition.