IBB UNIVERSITY CRACKS DOWN ON ‘SIGN-OUT’ TRADITION: STUDENTS FACE SANCTIONS FOR SHIRT-SIGNING, CONVOYS, ALCOHOL, AND PARTIES

The management of Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida University (IBBU), Lapai, Niger State, has officially banned the popular “sign-out” celebrations for graduating students, warning that defaulters will face stiff disciplinary action.

In a circular dated September 12, 2025, and signed by the Dean of Student Affairs, Professor M.S. Ewugi, the institution reminded students of an earlier directive issued in February 2023, reiterating that the university will not tolerate any form of “sign-out” activity within or outside its campuses.

The memo, which was also copied to the Vice Chancellor and Deputy Vice Chancellors, listed prohibited activities to include:

Signing on white shirts or any other attire,

Reckless driving of cars or motorcycles in convoys,

Inviting outsiders for gatherings,

Wearing flamboyant outfits,

And consuming alcohol in the name of celebration.


According to the circular, “The University Management wishes to emphasize and warn all graduating students to abide strictly by this directive, as any student who deviates will face disciplinary action. Any individual or group of students that defaults or violates this directive shall face stiff sanctions.”

The institution stressed that the clampdown is designed to safeguard lives, prevent unruly behavior, and maintain the dignity of the university environment.

Across Nigeria, “sign-out” celebrations have become a defining tradition for final-year students, who typically express their joy by parading through campuses in signed T-shirts, partying, and sometimes engaging in convoys of cars and motorcycles. While students see it as a rite of passage, many universities—including IBBU—have consistently raised concerns over security risks, unruly conduct, and the disruption of academic environments.

By reissuing this stern directive, IBBU has signaled its resolve to enforce discipline and order during graduation season, even at the risk of clashing with students eager to uphold tradition.