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The management of Rivers State University (RSU), Nkpolu-Oroworukwo, Port Harcourt, has reaffirmed its ban on final-year sign-out ceremonies and all related celebratory activities within the university community, citing concerns over safety, security and the need to preserve a peaceful academic environment.
In an internal memorandum dated July 13, 2026, and signed by the Acting Registrar, Dr. Idanyingi I. Daminabo, the university said the directive became necessary due to the increasing incidence of unruly behaviour and public disturbances associated with sign-out celebrations.
The management noted that while it recognises the desire of graduating students to celebrate the completion of their academic programmes, the protection of lives and property, as well as the maintenance of order on campus, remains paramount. It added that the directive is a reinforcement of an earlier ban approved by the university last year.
Under the renewed directive, all sign-out activities before, during and after the final examination period are prohibited. Students are also barred from wearing white shirts, white tops, jeans or any attire intended for sign-out celebrations, including the writing, signing or scribbling on clothing.
The university further prohibited parents, guardians, relatives, friends, photographers and other visitors from entering the campus for sign-out events. It also banned the bringing of cakes, flowers, balloons, food, drinks, gift items, money bouquets and other celebratory materials into the university community.
Other prohibited activities include spraying money or water, throwing powders or other substances, playing loud music, dancing in processions, blocking roads, reckless driving, drifting, speeding, unnecessary convoy movements, motorcycle stunts and the excessive use of vehicle horns, sirens or security escorts within the campus.
The memorandum directed university security personnel and other designated officials to ensure strict enforcement of the policy. It also warned that any student or person found violating the directive would be disciplined in accordance with the university\'s rules and regulations, while heads of departments would be held accountable where violations occur without being reported.
The management reminded students that the university\'s convocation ceremony remains the only officially recognised event for celebrating the successful completion of academic programmes, urging graduating students to conduct themselves in a manner that upholds the institution\'s values and reputation.
