Delta Govt Bans Valentine Celebrations Statewide

The Delta State Government has announced a ban on Valentine celebrations in all public and private secondary schools across the state.

The directive was contained in an official circular dated 11 February, 2026, issued by the Ministry of Secondary Education (Headquarters), Asaba.

Addressed to Chief Inspectors of Education, Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education Field Offices, and School Heads (Public & Private), the circular is titled “Abolition of Valentine Parties in Schools.”

According to the Ministry: “It has been observed by the Ministry of Secondary Education of the wide spread practice of organizing valentine parties in both public and private schools across the State by both students and teachers. This practice has been logically proven not to have promoted academic excellence hitherto in schools.”

The government stressed that students should concentrate on academic and productive activities, warning against events that may distract from learning.

“Whereas students are to be encouraged to spend their ample time and energies for positive teaching and learning experiences, school authorities must despair acts that will promote learning glitches among students.”

Reaffirming its stance on educational standards, the state government noted:

“It is important to stress that the Delta State Government have placed priority on strengthening and uplifting standard of education and will discourage activities capable of undermining moral and academic standard in schools.”

The circular concludes with a clear directive:

“Consequently, School heads (Public & Private) are hereby informed that celebration of Valentine parties in schools by school authorities are prohibited in the State.”

The notice was signed by Dr. Kingsley Nze Ashibogwu, JP, Honourable Commissioner for Secondary Education, and ended with:

“Accept the assurances of our highest esteems, please.”

The decision has generated discussions among stakeholders in the education sector as schools comply with the new directive.