The excitement that usually comes with school graduations is increasingly being overshadowed by rising costs, as many Nigerian parents say celebrations have become a measure of financial strength rather than academic accomplishment.In Lagos, July marks more than the end of the school session. Families are scrambling to cover graduation levies, costly outfits, tailoring fees and lavish parties, even amid the country’s prevailing economic challenges.A survey by the News Agency of Nigeria on Sunday reveals that graduation ceremonies are now common across all levels of education, from preschool and kindergarten through primary, junior secondary and senior secondary schools, even as many parents question the justification for the increasing financial burden.In addition to ceremony fees, parents say the greatest burden often arises from the need to procure customised outfits that conform to school-prescribed colour codes or contemporary designs, particularly for female students.Mrs Mojisola Fatai, whose son and daughter are both graduating from JSS 3, said she was grateful to witness the milestone, but the financial burden was enormous.“By God’s grace, we are happy they are moving to senior secondary school, but paying for the graduation is one thing and buying what they will wear is another.“The boy’s outfit is usually less expensive, but for the girl, it is a lot.“Gen Z children insist on specific styles, and it has become a competition among their peers instead of simply celebrating.“Besides, I don’t even see the need for graduation ceremonies at the junior secondary level because they have not completed their education,” she said.Fatai called on schools and parents to discourage undue competition during graduation ceremonies and prioritise the celebration of academic excellence over elaborate and expensive attire.Mrs Ego Nnaemeka shared a similar experience, saying she spent N40,000 on fabric for her daughter’s graduation dress, only to be told that sewing the preferred corset gown would cost an additional N80,000.“I was shocked because the sewing fee alone was twice the cost of the fabric,” she said.Mrs Bolanle Oyewole, whose daughter is graduating from kindergarten to primary school, said the financial requirements were unjustifiable.“My daughter was asked to pay N20,000 for graduation. It may create memories for the child, but it is an unnecessary expense.“The child will still remain in the same school and continue learning with the same classmates,” she said.Mr Sunday Akpan, an estate agent, said he had decided not to allow his son to participate in his school’s JSS 3 graduation because of the cost.“My son is moving from JSS 3 to SS1 in the same school. He is not changing schools, so I don’t see the point of organising a graduation and asking parents to pay a certain amount of money.“I have already told him he will not be attending,” Akpan said.Some parents also expressed concern that ceremonies have become so commercialised that even non-graduating pupils feel pressured to participate.Mrs Linda Ogbonna recalled how her JSS 2 daughter pleaded with her to pay N30,000 to attend a ceremony at her school because graduating students were to receive gift packs.“My daughter cried and begged me to pay because she wanted the gift pack that would be shared during the ceremony, even though she wasn’t graduating,” she said.Related NewsAbia to sanction schools collecting ‘unauthorised’ graduation leviesOutsourcing operators seek reforms to position Nigeria globallyDigital payments drive Nigeria’s $11bn food industry expansionOthers, however, believe the occasion is worth celebrating despite the economic situation.Mrs Nkem Okoye, a businesswoman, said she was prepared to celebrate her daughter’s secondary school graduation.“It is not easy to raise a child to this stage.“It is a celebration for both of us.“I don’t mind spending on her graduation,” she said.The growing demand for elaborate graduation attire has also presented business opportunities for tailors, even as many of them note that customers frequently undervalue the cost of skilled craftsmanship.A tailor, popularly known as Iya Baraka, in Ebute-Meta, said many requests involved complicated styles that required considerable time and expertise.“Graduation fabrics are coming in, but the styles people bring are very complicated.“When you tell them the price for making the dresses, they complain.“They want a beautiful outfit but are not willing to pay for the work involved,” she said.Another tailor, Ms Rasheedat Abdullahi, said she had received numerous orders but had declined some because customers expected quality work at very low prices.“This month alone, many customers have brought fabrics, but I have had to turn some of them down because they were not considerate.“They assume that because you operate from a small shop and you are young, you should charge very little.“They don’t consider the time, effort and expertise required to produce the outfits they request,” she said.While a number of tailors reported increased patronage, others noted that the prevailing economic climate was affecting demand.Aliyah Tunde said customers had yet to come in large numbers but remained optimistic that business would improve.Similarly, Seun Olawale said he had received only a few orders, noting that many male students now preferred outfits they could wear after the ceremony instead of expensive suits.Education stakeholders who spoke with NAN said the growing extravagance surrounding school graduations calls for moderation.They urged schools to place more emphasis on academic achievement than on fashion displays by adopting standard graduation gowns instead of requiring parents to source specific fabrics, colours and expensive bespoke outfits.According to them, the move will ease financial pressure on families, curb unhealthy competition among students and restore graduations to their original purpose: a celebration of learning rather than a showcase of wealth.(NAN) In Lagos, July marks more than the end of the school session. Families are scrambling to cover graduation levies, costly outfits, tailoring fees and lavish parties, even amid the country’s prevailing economic challenges.A survey by the News Agency of Nigeria on Sunday reveals that graduation ceremonies are now common across all levels of education, from preschool and kindergarten through primary, junior secondary and senior secondary schools, even as many parents question the justification for the increasing financial burden.In addition to ceremony fees, parents say the greatest burden often arises from the need to procure customised outfits that conform to school-prescribed colour codes or contemporary designs, particularly for female students.Mrs Mojisola Fatai, whose son and daughter are both graduating from JSS 3, said she was grateful to witness the milestone, but the financial burden was enormous.“By God’s grace, we are happy they are moving to senior secondary school, but paying for the graduation is one thing and buying what they will wear is another.“The boy’s outfit is usually less expensive, but for the girl, it is a lot.“Gen Z children insist on specific styles, and it has become a competition among their peers instead of simply celebrating.“Besides, I don’t even see the need for graduation ceremonies at the junior secondary level because they have not completed their education,” she said.Fatai called on schools and parents to discourage undue competition during graduation ceremonies and prioritise the celebration of academic excellence over elaborate and expensive attire.Mrs Ego Nnaemeka shared a similar experience, saying she spent N40,000 on fabric for her daughter’s graduation dress, only to be told that sewing the preferred corset gown would cost an additional N80,000.“I was shocked because the sewing fee alone was twice the cost of the fabric,” she said.Mrs Bolanle Oyewole, whose daughter is graduating from kindergarten to primary school, said the financial requirements were unjustifiable.“My daughter was asked to pay N20,000 for graduation. It may create memories for the child, but it is an unnecessary expense.“The child will still remain in the same school and continue learning with the same classmates,” she said.Mr Sunday Akpan, an estate agent, said he had decided not to allow his son to participate in his school’s JSS 3 graduation because of the cost.“My son is moving from JSS 3 to SS1 in the same school. He is not changing schools, so I don’t see the point of organising a graduation and asking parents to pay a certain amount of money.“I have already told him he will not be attending,” Akpan said.Some parents also expressed concern that ceremonies have become so commercialised that even non-graduating pupils feel pressured to participate.Mrs Linda Ogbonna recalled how her JSS 2 daughter pleaded with her to pay N30,000 to attend a ceremony at her school because graduating students were to receive gift packs.“My daughter cried and begged me to pay because she wanted the gift pack that would be shared during the ceremony, even though she wasn’t graduating,” she said.Related NewsAbia to sanction schools collecting ‘unauthorised’ graduation leviesOutsourcing operators seek reforms to position Nigeria globallyDigital payments drive Nigeria’s $11bn food industry expansionOthers, however, believe the occasion is worth celebrating despite the economic situation.Mrs Nkem Okoye, a businesswoman, said she was prepared to celebrate her daughter’s secondary school graduation.“It is not easy to raise a child to this stage.“It is a celebration for both of us.“I don’t mind spending on her graduation,” she said.The growing demand for elaborate graduation attire has also presented business opportunities for tailors, even as many of them note that customers frequently undervalue the cost of skilled craftsmanship.A tailor, popularly known as Iya Baraka, in Ebute-Meta, said many requests involved complicated styles that required considerable time and expertise.“Graduation fabrics are coming in, but the styles people bring are very complicated.“When you tell them the price for making the dresses, they complain.“They want a beautiful outfit but are not willing to pay for the work involved,” she said.Another tailor, Ms Rasheedat Abdullahi, said she had received numerous orders but had declined some because customers expected quality work at very low prices.“This month alone, many customers have brought fabrics, but I have had to turn some of them down because they were not considerate.“They assume that because you operate from a small shop and you are young, you should charge very little.“They don’t consider the time, effort and expertise required to produce the outfits they request,” she said.While a number of tailors reported increased patronage, others noted that the prevailing economic climate was affecting demand.Aliyah Tunde said customers had yet to come in large numbers but remained optimistic that business would improve.Similarly, Seun Olawale said he had received only a few orders, noting that many male students now preferred outfits they could wear after the ceremony instead of expensive suits.Education stakeholders who spoke with NAN said the growing extravagance surrounding school graduations calls for moderation.They urged schools to place more emphasis on academic achievement than on fashion displays by adopting standard graduation gowns instead of requiring parents to source specific fabrics, colours and expensive bespoke outfits.According to them, the move will ease financial pressure on families, curb unhealthy competition among students and restore graduations to their original purpose: a celebration of learning rather than a showcase of wealth.(NAN) A survey by the News Agency of Nigeria on Sunday reveals that graduation ceremonies are now common across all levels of education, from preschool and kindergarten through primary, junior secondary and senior secondary schools, even as many parents question the justification for the increasing financial burden.In addition to ceremony fees, parents say the greatest burden often arises from the need to procure customised outfits that conform to school-prescribed colour codes or contemporary designs, particularly for female students.Mrs Mojisola Fatai, whose son and daughter are both graduating from JSS 3, said she was grateful to witness the milestone, but the financial burden was enormous.“By God’s grace, we are happy they are moving to senior secondary school, but paying for the graduation is one thing and buying what they will wear is another.“The boy’s outfit is usually less expensive, but for the girl, it is a lot.“Gen Z children insist on specific styles, and it has become a competition among their peers instead of simply celebrating.“Besides, I don’t even see the need for graduation ceremonies at the junior secondary level because they have not completed their education,” she said.Fatai called on schools and parents to discourage undue competition during graduation ceremonies and prioritise the celebration of academic excellence over elaborate and expensive attire.Mrs Ego Nnaemeka shared a similar experience, saying she spent N40,000 on fabric for her daughter’s graduation dress, only to be told that sewing the preferred corset gown would cost an additional N80,000.“I was shocked because the sewing fee alone was twice the cost of the fabric,” she said.Mrs Bolanle Oyewole, whose daughter is graduating from kindergarten to primary school, said the financial requirements were unjustifiable.“My daughter was asked to pay N20,000 for graduation. It may create memories for the child, but it is an unnecessary expense.“The child will still remain in the same school and continue learning with the same classmates,” she said.Mr Sunday Akpan, an estate agent, said he had decided not to allow his son to participate in his school’s JSS 3 graduation because of the cost.“My son is moving from JSS 3 to SS1 in the same school. He is not changing schools, so I don’t see the point of organising a graduation and asking parents to pay a certain amount of money.“I have already told him he will not be attending,” Akpan said.Some parents also expressed concern that ceremonies have become so commercialised that even non-graduating pupils feel pressured to participate.Mrs Linda Ogbonna recalled how her JSS 2 daughter pleaded with her to pay N30,000 to attend a ceremony at her school because graduating students were to receive gift packs.“My daughter cried and begged me to pay because she wanted the gift pack that would be shared during the ceremony, even though she wasn’t graduating,” she said.Related NewsAbia to sanction schools collecting ‘unauthorised’ graduation leviesOutsourcing operators seek reforms to position Nigeria globallyDigital payments drive Nigeria’s $11bn food industry expansionOthers, however, believe the occasion is worth celebrating despite the economic situation.Mrs Nkem Okoye, a businesswoman, said she was prepared to celebrate her daughter’s secondary school graduation.“It is not easy to raise a child to this stage.“It is a celebration for both of us.“I don’t mind spending on her graduation,” she said.The growing demand for elaborate graduation attire has also presented business opportunities for tailors, even as many of them note that customers frequently undervalue the cost of skilled craftsmanship.A tailor, popularly known as Iya Baraka, in Ebute-Meta, said many requests involved complicated styles that required considerable time and expertise.“Graduation fabrics are coming in, but the styles people bring are very complicated.“When you tell them the price for making the dresses, they complain.“They want a beautiful outfit but are not willing to pay for the work involved,” she said.Another tailor, Ms Rasheedat Abdullahi, said she had received numerous orders but had declined some because customers expected quality work at very low prices.“This month alone, many customers have brought fabrics, but I have had to turn some of them down because they were not considerate.“They assume that because you operate from a small shop and you are young, you should charge very little.“They don’t consider the time, effort and expertise required to produce the outfits they request,” she said.While a number of tailors reported increased patronage, others noted that the prevailing economic climate was affecting demand.Aliyah Tunde said customers had yet to come in large numbers but remained optimistic that business would improve.Similarly, Seun Olawale said he had received only a few orders, noting that many male students now preferred outfits they could wear after the ceremony instead of expensive suits.Education stakeholders who spoke with NAN said the growing extravagance surrounding school graduations calls for moderation.They urged schools to place more emphasis on academic achievement than on fashion displays by adopting standard graduation gowns instead of requiring parents to source specific fabrics, colours and expensive bespoke outfits.According to them, the move will ease financial pressure on families, curb unhealthy competition among students and restore graduations to their original purpose: a celebration of learning rather than a showcase of wealth.(NAN) In addition to ceremony fees, parents say the greatest burden often arises from the need to procure customised outfits that conform to school-prescribed colour codes or contemporary designs, particularly for female students.Mrs Mojisola Fatai, whose son and daughter are both graduating from JSS 3, said she was grateful to witness the milestone, but the financial burden was enormous.“By God’s grace, we are happy they are moving to senior secondary school, but paying for the graduation is one thing and buying what they will wear is another.“The boy’s outfit is usually less expensive, but for the girl, it is a lot.“Gen Z children insist on specific styles, and it has become a competition among their peers instead of simply celebrating.“Besides, I don’t even see the need for graduation ceremonies at the junior secondary level because they have not completed their education,” she said.Fatai called on schools and parents to discourage undue competition during graduation ceremonies and prioritise the celebration of academic excellence over elaborate and expensive attire.Mrs Ego Nnaemeka shared a similar experience, saying she spent N40,000 on fabric for her daughter’s graduation dress, only to be told that sewing the preferred corset gown would cost an additional N80,000.“I was shocked because the sewing fee alone was twice the cost of the fabric,” she said.Mrs Bolanle Oyewole, whose daughter is graduating from kindergarten to primary school, said the financial requirements were unjustifiable.“My daughter was asked to pay N20,000 for graduation. It may create memories for the child, but it is an unnecessary expense.“The child will still remain in the same school and continue learning with the same classmates,” she said.Mr Sunday Akpan, an estate agent, said he had decided not to allow his son to participate in his school’s JSS 3 graduation because of the cost.“My son is moving from JSS 3 to SS1 in the same school. He is not changing schools, so I don’t see the point of organising a graduation and asking parents to pay a certain amount of money.“I have already told him he will not be attending,” Akpan said.Some parents also expressed concern that ceremonies have become so commercialised that even non-graduating pupils feel pressured to participate.Mrs Linda Ogbonna recalled how her JSS 2 daughter pleaded with her to pay N30,000 to attend a ceremony at her school because graduating students were to receive gift packs.“My daughter cried and begged me to pay because she wanted the gift pack that would be shared during the ceremony, even though she wasn’t graduating,” she said.Related NewsAbia to sanction schools collecting ‘unauthorised’ graduation leviesOutsourcing operators seek reforms to position Nigeria globallyDigital payments drive Nigeria’s $11bn food industry expansionOthers, however, believe the occasion is worth celebrating despite the economic situation.Mrs Nkem Okoye, a businesswoman, said she was prepared to celebrate her daughter’s secondary school graduation.“It is not easy to raise a child to this stage.“It is a celebration for both of us.“I don’t mind spending on her graduation,” she said.The growing demand for elaborate graduation attire has also presented business opportunities for tailors, even as many of them note that customers frequently undervalue the cost of skilled craftsmanship.A tailor, popularly known as Iya Baraka, in Ebute-Meta, said many requests involved complicated styles that required considerable time and expertise.“Graduation fabrics are coming in, but the styles people bring are very complicated.“When you tell them the price for making the dresses, they complain.“They want a beautiful outfit but are not willing to pay for the work involved,” she said.Another tailor, Ms Rasheedat Abdullahi, said she had received numerous orders but had declined some because customers expected quality work at very low prices.“This month alone, many customers have brought fabrics, but I have had to turn some of them down because they were not considerate.“They assume that because you operate from a small shop and you are young, you should charge very little.“They don’t consider the time, effort and expertise required to produce the outfits they request,” she said.While a number of tailors reported increased patronage, others noted that the prevailing economic climate was affecting demand.Aliyah Tunde said customers had yet to come in large numbers but remained optimistic that business would improve.Similarly, Seun Olawale said he had received only a few orders, noting that many male students now preferred outfits they could wear after the ceremony instead of expensive suits.Education stakeholders who spoke with NAN said the growing extravagance surrounding school graduations calls for moderation.They urged schools to place more emphasis on academic achievement than on fashion displays by adopting standard graduation gowns instead of requiring parents to source specific fabrics, colours and expensive bespoke outfits.According to them, the move will ease financial pressure on families, curb unhealthy competition among students and restore graduations to their original purpose: a celebration of learning rather than a showcase of wealth.(NAN) Mrs Mojisola Fatai, whose son and daughter are both graduating from JSS 3, said she was grateful to witness the milestone, but the financial burden was enormous.“By God’s grace, we are happy they are moving to senior secondary school, but paying for the graduation is one thing and buying what they will wear is another.“The boy’s outfit is usually less expensive, but for the girl, it is a lot.“Gen Z children insist on specific styles, and it has become a competition among their peers instead of simply celebrating.“Besides, I don’t even see the need for graduation ceremonies at the junior secondary level because they have not completed their education,” she said.Fatai called on schools and parents to discourage undue competition during graduation ceremonies and prioritise the celebration of academic excellence over elaborate and expensive attire.Mrs Ego Nnaemeka shared a similar experience, saying she spent N40,000 on fabric for her daughter’s graduation dress, only to be told that sewing the preferred corset gown would cost an additional N80,000.“I was shocked because the sewing fee alone was twice the cost of the fabric,” she said.Mrs Bolanle Oyewole, whose daughter is graduating from kindergarten to primary school, said the financial requirements were unjustifiable.“My daughter was asked to pay N20,000 for graduation. It may create memories for the child, but it is an unnecessary expense.“The child will still remain in the same school and continue learning with the same classmates,” she said.Mr Sunday Akpan, an estate agent, said he had decided not to allow his son to participate in his school’s JSS 3 graduation because of the cost.“My son is moving from JSS 3 to SS1 in the same school. He is not changing schools, so I don’t see the point of organising a graduation and asking parents to pay a certain amount of money.“I have already told him he will not be attending,” Akpan said.Some parents also expressed concern that ceremonies have become so commercialised that even non-graduating pupils feel pressured to participate.Mrs Linda Ogbonna recalled how her JSS 2 daughter pleaded with her to pay N30,000 to attend a ceremony at her school because graduating students were to receive gift packs.“My daughter cried and begged me to pay because she wanted the gift pack that would be shared during the ceremony, even though she wasn’t graduating,” she said.Related NewsAbia to sanction schools collecting ‘unauthorised’ graduation leviesOutsourcing operators seek reforms to position Nigeria globallyDigital payments drive Nigeria’s $11bn food industry expansionOthers, however, believe the occasion is worth celebrating despite the economic situation.Mrs Nkem Okoye, a businesswoman, said she was prepared to celebrate her daughter’s secondary school graduation.“It is not easy to raise a child to this stage.“It is a celebration for both of us.“I don’t mind spending on her graduation,” she said.The growing demand for elaborate graduation attire has also presented business opportunities for tailors, even as many of them note that customers frequently undervalue the cost of skilled craftsmanship.A tailor, popularly known as Iya Baraka, in Ebute-Meta, said many requests involved complicated styles that required considerable time and expertise.“Graduation fabrics are coming in, but the styles people bring are very complicated.“When you tell them the price for making the dresses, they complain.“They want a beautiful outfit but are not willing to pay for the work involved,” she said.Another tailor, Ms Rasheedat Abdullahi, said she had received numerous orders but had declined some because customers expected quality work at very low prices.“This month alone, many customers have brought fabrics, but I have had to turn some of them down because they were not considerate.“They assume that because you operate from a small shop and you are young, you should charge very little.“They don’t consider the time, effort and expertise required to produce the outfits they request,” she said.While a number of tailors reported increased patronage, others noted that the prevailing economic climate was affecting demand.Aliyah Tunde said customers had yet to come in large numbers but remained optimistic that business would improve.Similarly, Seun Olawale said he had received only a few orders, noting that many male students now preferred outfits they could wear after the ceremony instead of expensive suits.Education stakeholders who spoke with NAN said the growing extravagance surrounding school graduations calls for moderation.They urged schools to place more emphasis on academic achievement than on fashion displays by adopting standard graduation gowns instead of requiring parents to source specific fabrics, colours and expensive bespoke outfits.According to them, the move will ease financial pressure on families, curb unhealthy competition among students and restore graduations to their original purpose: a celebration of learning rather than a showcase of wealth.(NAN) “By God’s grace, we are happy they are moving to senior secondary school, but paying for the graduation is one thing and buying what they will wear is another.“The boy’s outfit is usually less expensive, but for the girl, it is a lot.“Gen Z children insist on specific styles, and it has become a competition among their peers instead of simply celebrating.“Besides, I don’t even see the need for graduation ceremonies at the junior secondary level because they have not completed their education,” she said.Fatai called on schools and parents to discourage undue competition during graduation ceremonies and prioritise the celebration of academic excellence over elaborate and expensive attire.Mrs Ego Nnaemeka shared a similar experience, saying she spent N40,000 on fabric for her daughter’s graduation dress, only to be told that sewing the preferred corset gown would cost an additional N80,000.“I was shocked because the sewing fee alone was twice the cost of the fabric,” she said.Mrs Bolanle Oyewole, whose daughter is graduating from kindergarten to primary school, said the financial requirements were unjustifiable.“My daughter was asked to pay N20,000 for graduation. It may create memories for the child, but it is an unnecessary expense.“The child will still remain in the same school and continue learning with the same classmates,” she said.Mr Sunday Akpan, an estate agent, said he had decided not to allow his son to participate in his school’s JSS 3 graduation because of the cost.“My son is moving from JSS 3 to SS1 in the same school. He is not changing schools, so I don’t see the point of organising a graduation and asking parents to pay a certain amount of money.“I have already told him he will not be attending,” Akpan said.Some parents also expressed concern that ceremonies have become so commercialised that even non-graduating pupils feel pressured to participate.Mrs Linda Ogbonna recalled how her JSS 2 daughter pleaded with her to pay N30,000 to attend a ceremony at her school because graduating students were to receive gift packs.“My daughter cried and begged me to pay because she wanted the gift pack that would be shared during the ceremony, even though she wasn’t graduating,” she said.Related NewsAbia to sanction schools collecting ‘unauthorised’ graduation leviesOutsourcing operators seek reforms to position Nigeria globallyDigital payments drive Nigeria’s $11bn food industry expansionOthers, however, believe the occasion is worth celebrating despite the economic situation.Mrs Nkem Okoye, a businesswoman, said she was prepared to celebrate her daughter’s secondary school graduation.“It is not easy to raise a child to this stage.“It is a celebration for both of us.“I don’t mind spending on her graduation,” she said.The growing demand for elaborate graduation attire has also presented business opportunities for tailors, even as many of them note that customers frequently undervalue the cost of skilled craftsmanship.A tailor, popularly known as Iya Baraka, in Ebute-Meta, said many requests involved complicated styles that required considerable time and expertise.“Graduation fabrics are coming in, but the styles people bring are very complicated.“When you tell them the price for making the dresses, they complain.“They want a beautiful outfit but are not willing to pay for the work involved,” she said.Another tailor, Ms Rasheedat Abdullahi, said she had received numerous orders but had declined some because customers expected quality work at very low prices.“This month alone, many customers have brought fabrics, but I have had to turn some of them down because they were not considerate.“They assume that because you operate from a small shop and you are young, you should charge very little.“They don’t consider the time, effort and expertise required to produce the outfits they request,” she said.While a number of tailors reported increased patronage, others noted that the prevailing economic climate was affecting demand.Aliyah Tunde said customers had yet to come in large numbers but remained optimistic that business would improve.Similarly, Seun Olawale said he had received only a few orders, noting that many male students now preferred outfits they could wear after the ceremony instead of expensive suits.Education stakeholders who spoke with NAN said the growing extravagance surrounding school graduations calls for moderation.They urged schools to place more emphasis on academic achievement than on fashion displays by adopting standard graduation gowns instead of requiring parents to source specific fabrics, colours and expensive bespoke outfits.According to them, the move will ease financial pressure on families, curb unhealthy competition among students and restore graduations to their original purpose: a celebration of learning rather than a showcase of wealth.(NAN) “The boy’s outfit is usually less expensive, but for the girl, it is a lot.“Gen Z children insist on specific styles, and it has become a competition among their peers instead of simply celebrating.“Besides, I don’t even see the need for graduation ceremonies at the junior secondary level because they have not completed their education,” she said.Fatai called on schools and parents to discourage undue competition during graduation ceremonies and prioritise the celebration of academic excellence over elaborate and expensive attire.Mrs Ego Nnaemeka shared a similar experience, saying she spent N40,000 on fabric for her daughter’s graduation dress, only to be told that sewing the preferred corset gown would cost an additional N80,000.“I was shocked because the sewing fee alone was twice the cost of the fabric,” she said.Mrs Bolanle Oyewole, whose daughter is graduating from kindergarten to primary school, said the financial requirements were unjustifiable.“My daughter was asked to pay N20,000 for graduation. It may create memories for the child, but it is an unnecessary expense.“The child will still remain in the same school and continue learning with the same classmates,” she said.Mr Sunday Akpan, an estate agent, said he had decided not to allow his son to participate in his school’s JSS 3 graduation because of the cost.“My son is moving from JSS 3 to SS1 in the same school. He is not changing schools, so I don’t see the point of organising a graduation and asking parents to pay a certain amount of money.“I have already told him he will not be attending,” Akpan said.Some parents also expressed concern that ceremonies have become so commercialised that even non-graduating pupils feel pressured to participate.Mrs Linda Ogbonna recalled how her JSS 2 daughter pleaded with her to pay N30,000 to attend a ceremony at her school because graduating students were to receive gift packs.“My daughter cried and begged me to pay because she wanted the gift pack that would be shared during the ceremony, even though she wasn’t graduating,” she said.Related NewsAbia to sanction schools collecting ‘unauthorised’ graduation leviesOutsourcing operators seek reforms to position Nigeria globallyDigital payments drive Nigeria’s $11bn food industry expansionOthers, however, believe the occasion is worth celebrating despite the economic situation.Mrs Nkem Okoye, a businesswoman, said she was prepared to celebrate her daughter’s secondary school graduation.“It is not easy to raise a child to this stage.“It is a celebration for both of us.“I don’t mind spending on her graduation,” she said.The growing demand for elaborate graduation attire has also presented business opportunities for tailors, even as many of them note that customers frequently undervalue the cost of skilled craftsmanship.A tailor, popularly known as Iya Baraka, in Ebute-Meta, said many requests involved complicated styles that required considerable time and expertise.“Graduation fabrics are coming in, but the styles people bring are very complicated.“When you tell them the price for making the dresses, they complain.“They want a beautiful outfit but are not willing to pay for the work involved,” she said.Another tailor, Ms Rasheedat Abdullahi, said she had received numerous orders but had declined some because customers expected quality work at very low prices.“This month alone, many customers have brought fabrics, but I have had to turn some of them down because they were not considerate.“They assume that because you operate from a small shop and you are young, you should charge very little.“They don’t consider the time, effort and expertise required to produce the outfits they request,” she said.While a number of tailors reported increased patronage, others noted that the prevailing economic climate was affecting demand.Aliyah Tunde said customers had yet to come in large numbers but remained optimistic that business would improve.Similarly, Seun Olawale said he had received only a few orders, noting that many male students now preferred outfits they could wear after the ceremony instead of expensive suits.Education stakeholders who spoke with NAN said the growing extravagance surrounding school graduations calls for moderation.They urged schools to place more emphasis on academic achievement than on fashion displays by adopting standard graduation gowns instead of requiring parents to source specific fabrics, colours and expensive bespoke outfits.According to them, the move will ease financial pressure on families, curb unhealthy competition among students and restore graduations to their original purpose: a celebration of learning rather than a showcase of wealth.(NAN) “Gen Z children insist on specific styles, and it has become a competition among their peers instead of simply celebrating.“Besides, I don’t even see the need for graduation ceremonies at the junior secondary level because they have not completed their education,” she said.Fatai called on schools and parents to discourage undue competition during graduation ceremonies and prioritise the celebration of academic excellence over elaborate and expensive attire.Mrs Ego Nnaemeka shared a similar experience, saying she spent N40,000 on fabric for her daughter’s graduation dress, only to be told that sewing the preferred corset gown would cost an additional N80,000.“I was shocked because the sewing fee alone was twice the cost of the fabric,” she said.Mrs Bolanle Oyewole, whose daughter is graduating from kindergarten to primary school, said the financial requirements were unjustifiable.“My daughter was asked to pay N20,000 for graduation. It may create memories for the child, but it is an unnecessary expense.“The child will still remain in the same school and continue learning with the same classmates,” she said.Mr Sunday Akpan, an estate agent, said he had decided not to allow his son to participate in his school’s JSS 3 graduation because of the cost.“My son is moving from JSS 3 to SS1 in the same school. He is not changing schools, so I don’t see the point of organising a graduation and asking parents to pay a certain amount of money.“I have already told him he will not be attending,” Akpan said.Some parents also expressed concern that ceremonies have become so commercialised that even non-graduating pupils feel pressured to participate.Mrs Linda Ogbonna recalled how her JSS 2 daughter pleaded with her to pay N30,000 to attend a ceremony at her school because graduating students were to receive gift packs.“My daughter cried and begged me to pay because she wanted the gift pack that would be shared during the ceremony, even though she wasn’t graduating,” she said.Related NewsAbia to sanction schools collecting ‘unauthorised’ graduation leviesOutsourcing operators seek reforms to position Nigeria globallyDigital payments drive Nigeria’s $11bn food industry expansionOthers, however, believe the occasion is worth celebrating despite the economic situation.Mrs Nkem Okoye, a businesswoman, said she was prepared to celebrate her daughter’s secondary school graduation.“It is not easy to raise a child to this stage.“It is a celebration for both of us.“I don’t mind spending on her graduation,” she said.The growing demand for elaborate graduation attire has also presented business opportunities for tailors, even as many of them note that customers frequently undervalue the cost of skilled craftsmanship.A tailor, popularly known as Iya Baraka, in Ebute-Meta, said many requests involved complicated styles that required considerable time and expertise.“Graduation fabrics are coming in, but the styles people bring are very complicated.“When you tell them the price for making the dresses, they complain.“They want a beautiful outfit but are not willing to pay for the work involved,” she said.Another tailor, Ms Rasheedat Abdullahi, said she had received numerous orders but had declined some because customers expected quality work at very low prices.“This month alone, many customers have brought fabrics, but I have had to turn some of them down because they were not considerate.“They assume that because you operate from a small shop and you are young, you should charge very little.“They don’t consider the time, effort and expertise required to produce the outfits they request,” she said.While a number of tailors reported increased patronage, others noted that the prevailing economic climate was affecting demand.Aliyah Tunde said customers had yet to come in large numbers but remained optimistic that business would improve.Similarly, Seun Olawale said he had received only a few orders, noting that many male students now preferred outfits they could wear after the ceremony instead of expensive suits.Education stakeholders who spoke with NAN said the growing extravagance surrounding school graduations calls for moderation.They urged schools to place more emphasis on academic achievement than on fashion displays by adopting standard graduation gowns instead of requiring parents to source specific fabrics, colours and expensive bespoke outfits.According to them, the move will ease financial pressure on families, curb unhealthy competition among students and restore graduations to their original purpose: a celebration of learning rather than a showcase of wealth.(NAN) “Besides, I don’t even see the need for graduation ceremonies at the junior secondary level because they have not completed their education,” she said.Fatai called on schools and parents to discourage undue competition during graduation ceremonies and prioritise the celebration of academic excellence over elaborate and expensive attire.Mrs Ego Nnaemeka shared a similar experience, saying she spent N40,000 on fabric for her daughter’s graduation dress, only to be told that sewing the preferred corset gown would cost an additional N80,000.“I was shocked because the sewing fee alone was twice the cost of the fabric,” she said.Mrs Bolanle Oyewole, whose daughter is graduating from kindergarten to primary school, said the financial requirements were unjustifiable.“My daughter was asked to pay N20,000 for graduation. It may create memories for the child, but it is an unnecessary expense.“The child will still remain in the same school and continue learning with the same classmates,” she said.Mr Sunday Akpan, an estate agent, said he had decided not to allow his son to participate in his school’s JSS 3 graduation because of the cost.“My son is moving from JSS 3 to SS1 in the same school. He is not changing schools, so I don’t see the point of organising a graduation and asking parents to pay a certain amount of money.“I have already told him he will not be attending,” Akpan said.Some parents also expressed concern that ceremonies have become so commercialised that even non-graduating pupils feel pressured to participate.Mrs Linda Ogbonna recalled how her JSS 2 daughter pleaded with her to pay N30,000 to attend a ceremony at her school because graduating students were to receive gift packs.“My daughter cried and begged me to pay because she wanted the gift pack that would be shared during the ceremony, even though she wasn’t graduating,” she said.Related NewsAbia to sanction schools collecting ‘unauthorised’ graduation leviesOutsourcing operators seek reforms to position Nigeria globallyDigital payments drive Nigeria’s $11bn food industry expansionOthers, however, believe the occasion is worth celebrating despite the economic situation.Mrs Nkem Okoye, a businesswoman, said she was prepared to celebrate her daughter’s secondary school graduation.“It is not easy to raise a child to this stage.“It is a celebration for both of us.“I don’t mind spending on her graduation,” she said.The growing demand for elaborate graduation attire has also presented business opportunities for tailors, even as many of them note that customers frequently undervalue the cost of skilled craftsmanship.A tailor, popularly known as Iya Baraka, in Ebute-Meta, said many requests involved complicated styles that required considerable time and expertise.“Graduation fabrics are coming in, but the styles people bring are very complicated.“When you tell them the price for making the dresses, they complain.“They want a beautiful outfit but are not willing to pay for the work involved,” she said.Another tailor, Ms Rasheedat Abdullahi, said she had received numerous orders but had declined some because customers expected quality work at very low prices.“This month alone, many customers have brought fabrics, but I have had to turn some of them down because they were not considerate.“They assume that because you operate from a small shop and you are young, you should charge very little.“They don’t consider the time, effort and expertise required to produce the outfits they request,” she said.While a number of tailors reported increased patronage, others noted that the prevailing economic climate was affecting demand.Aliyah Tunde said customers had yet to come in large numbers but remained optimistic that business would improve.Similarly, Seun Olawale said he had received only a few orders, noting that many male students now preferred outfits they could wear after the ceremony instead of expensive suits.Education stakeholders who spoke with NAN said the growing extravagance surrounding school graduations calls for moderation.They urged schools to place more emphasis on academic achievement than on fashion displays by adopting standard graduation gowns instead of requiring parents to source specific fabrics, colours and expensive bespoke outfits.According to them, the move will ease financial pressure on families, curb unhealthy competition among students and restore graduations to their original purpose: a celebration of learning rather than a showcase of wealth.(NAN) Fatai called on schools and parents to discourage undue competition during graduation ceremonies and prioritise the celebration of academic excellence over elaborate and expensive attire.Mrs Ego Nnaemeka shared a similar experience, saying she spent N40,000 on fabric for her daughter’s graduation dress, only to be told that sewing the preferred corset gown would cost an additional N80,000.“I was shocked because the sewing fee alone was twice the cost of the fabric,” she said.Mrs Bolanle Oyewole, whose daughter is graduating from kindergarten to primary school, said the financial requirements were unjustifiable.“My daughter was asked to pay N20,000 for graduation. It may create memories for the child, but it is an unnecessary expense.“The child will still remain in the same school and continue learning with the same classmates,” she said.Mr Sunday Akpan, an estate agent, said he had decided not to allow his son to participate in his school’s JSS 3 graduation because of the cost.“My son is moving from JSS 3 to SS1 in the same school. He is not changing schools, so I don’t see the point of organising a graduation and asking parents to pay a certain amount of money.“I have already told him he will not be attending,” Akpan said.Some parents also expressed concern that ceremonies have become so commercialised that even non-graduating pupils feel pressured to participate.Mrs Linda Ogbonna recalled how her JSS 2 daughter pleaded with her to pay N30,000 to attend a ceremony at her school because graduating students were to receive gift packs.“My daughter cried and begged me to pay because she wanted the gift pack that would be shared during the ceremony, even though she wasn’t graduating,” she said.Related NewsAbia to sanction schools collecting ‘unauthorised’ graduation leviesOutsourcing operators seek reforms to position Nigeria globallyDigital payments drive Nigeria’s $11bn food industry expansionOthers, however, believe the occasion is worth celebrating despite the economic situation.Mrs Nkem Okoye, a businesswoman, said she was prepared to celebrate her daughter’s secondary school graduation.“It is not easy to raise a child to this stage.“It is a celebration for both of us.“I don’t mind spending on her graduation,” she said.The growing demand for elaborate graduation attire has also presented business opportunities for tailors, even as many of them note that customers frequently undervalue the cost of skilled craftsmanship.A tailor, popularly known as Iya Baraka, in Ebute-Meta, said many requests involved complicated styles that required considerable time and expertise.“Graduation fabrics are coming in, but the styles people bring are very complicated.“When you tell them the price for making the dresses, they complain.“They want a beautiful outfit but are not willing to pay for the work involved,” she said.Another tailor, Ms Rasheedat Abdullahi, said she had received numerous orders but had declined some because customers expected quality work at very low prices.“This month alone, many customers have brought fabrics, but I have had to turn some of them down because they were not considerate.“They assume that because you operate from a small shop and you are young, you should charge very little.“They don’t consider the time, effort and expertise required to produce the outfits they request,” she said.While a number of tailors reported increased patronage, others noted that the prevailing economic climate was affecting demand.Aliyah Tunde said customers had yet to come in large numbers but remained optimistic that business would improve.Similarly, Seun Olawale said he had received only a few orders, noting that many male students now preferred outfits they could wear after the ceremony instead of expensive suits.Education stakeholders who spoke with NAN said the growing extravagance surrounding school graduations calls for moderation.They urged schools to place more emphasis on academic achievement than on fashion displays by adopting standard graduation gowns instead of requiring parents to source specific fabrics, colours and expensive bespoke outfits.According to them, the move will ease financial pressure on families, curb unhealthy competition among students and restore graduations to their original purpose: a celebration of learning rather than a showcase of wealth.(NAN) Mrs Ego Nnaemeka shared a similar experience, saying she spent N40,000 on fabric for her daughter’s graduation dress, only to be told that sewing the preferred corset gown would cost an additional N80,000.“I was shocked because the sewing fee alone was twice the cost of the fabric,” she said.Mrs Bolanle Oyewole, whose daughter is graduating from kindergarten to primary school, said the financial requirements were unjustifiable.“My daughter was asked to pay N20,000 for graduation. It may create memories for the child, but it is an unnecessary expense.“The child will still remain in the same school and continue learning with the same classmates,” she said.Mr Sunday Akpan, an estate agent, said he had decided not to allow his son to participate in his school’s JSS 3 graduation because of the cost.“My son is moving from JSS 3 to SS1 in the same school. He is not changing schools, so I don’t see the point of organising a graduation and asking parents to pay a certain amount of money.“I have already told him he will not be attending,” Akpan said.Some parents also expressed concern that ceremonies have become so commercialised that even non-graduating pupils feel pressured to participate.Mrs Linda Ogbonna recalled how her JSS 2 daughter pleaded with her to pay N30,000 to attend a ceremony at her school because graduating students were to receive gift packs.“My daughter cried and begged me to pay because she wanted the gift pack that would be shared during the ceremony, even though she wasn’t graduating,” she said.Related NewsAbia to sanction schools collecting ‘unauthorised’ graduation leviesOutsourcing operators seek reforms to position Nigeria globallyDigital payments drive Nigeria’s $11bn food industry expansionOthers, however, believe the occasion is worth celebrating despite the economic situation.Mrs Nkem Okoye, a businesswoman, said she was prepared to celebrate her daughter’s secondary school graduation.“It is not easy to raise a child to this stage.“It is a celebration for both of us.“I don’t mind spending on her graduation,” she said.The growing demand for elaborate graduation attire has also presented business opportunities for tailors, even as many of them note that customers frequently undervalue the cost of skilled craftsmanship.A tailor, popularly known as Iya Baraka, in Ebute-Meta, said many requests involved complicated styles that required considerable time and expertise.“Graduation fabrics are coming in, but the styles people bring are very complicated.“When you tell them the price for making the dresses, they complain.“They want a beautiful outfit but are not willing to pay for the work involved,” she said.Another tailor, Ms Rasheedat Abdullahi, said she had received numerous orders but had declined some because customers expected quality work at very low prices.“This month alone, many customers have brought fabrics, but I have had to turn some of them down because they were not considerate.“They assume that because you operate from a small shop and you are young, you should charge very little.“They don’t consider the time, effort and expertise required to produce the outfits they request,” she said.While a number of tailors reported increased patronage, others noted that the prevailing economic climate was affecting demand.Aliyah Tunde said customers had yet to come in large numbers but remained optimistic that business would improve.Similarly, Seun Olawale said he had received only a few orders, noting that many male students now preferred outfits they could wear after the ceremony instead of expensive suits.Education stakeholders who spoke with NAN said the growing extravagance surrounding school graduations calls for moderation.They urged schools to place more emphasis on academic achievement than on fashion displays by adopting standard graduation gowns instead of requiring parents to source specific fabrics, colours and expensive bespoke outfits.According to them, the move will ease financial pressure on families, curb unhealthy competition among students and restore graduations to their original purpose: a celebration of learning rather than a showcase of wealth.(NAN) “I was shocked because the sewing fee alone was twice the cost of the fabric,” she said.Mrs Bolanle Oyewole, whose daughter is graduating from kindergarten to primary school, said the financial requirements were unjustifiable.“My daughter was asked to pay N20,000 for graduation. It may create memories for the child, but it is an unnecessary expense.“The child will still remain in the same school and continue learning with the same classmates,” she said.Mr Sunday Akpan, an estate agent, said he had decided not to allow his son to participate in his school’s JSS 3 graduation because of the cost.“My son is moving from JSS 3 to SS1 in the same school. He is not changing schools, so I don’t see the point of organising a graduation and asking parents to pay a certain amount of money.“I have already told him he will not be attending,” Akpan said.Some parents also expressed concern that ceremonies have become so commercialised that even non-graduating pupils feel pressured to participate.Mrs Linda Ogbonna recalled how her JSS 2 daughter pleaded with her to pay N30,000 to attend a ceremony at her school because graduating students were to receive gift packs.“My daughter cried and begged me to pay because she wanted the gift pack that would be shared during the ceremony, even though she wasn’t graduating,” she said.Related NewsAbia to sanction schools collecting ‘unauthorised’ graduation leviesOutsourcing operators seek reforms to position Nigeria globallyDigital payments drive Nigeria’s $11bn food industry expansionOthers, however, believe the occasion is worth celebrating despite the economic situation.Mrs Nkem Okoye, a businesswoman, said she was prepared to celebrate her daughter’s secondary school graduation.“It is not easy to raise a child to this stage.“It is a celebration for both of us.“I don’t mind spending on her graduation,” she said.The growing demand for elaborate graduation attire has also presented business opportunities for tailors, even as many of them note that customers frequently undervalue the cost of skilled craftsmanship.A tailor, popularly known as Iya Baraka, in Ebute-Meta, said many requests involved complicated styles that required considerable time and expertise.“Graduation fabrics are coming in, but the styles people bring are very complicated.“When you tell them the price for making the dresses, they complain.“They want a beautiful outfit but are not willing to pay for the work involved,” she said.Another tailor, Ms Rasheedat Abdullahi, said she had received numerous orders but had declined some because customers expected quality work at very low prices.“This month alone, many customers have brought fabrics, but I have had to turn some of them down because they were not considerate.“They assume that because you operate from a small shop and you are young, you should charge very little.“They don’t consider the time, effort and expertise required to produce the outfits they request,” she said.While a number of tailors reported increased patronage, others noted that the prevailing economic climate was affecting demand.Aliyah Tunde said customers had yet to come in large numbers but remained optimistic that business would improve.Similarly, Seun Olawale said he had received only a few orders, noting that many male students now preferred outfits they could wear after the ceremony instead of expensive suits.Education stakeholders who spoke with NAN said the growing extravagance surrounding school graduations calls for moderation.They urged schools to place more emphasis on academic achievement than on fashion displays by adopting standard graduation gowns instead of requiring parents to source specific fabrics, colours and expensive bespoke outfits.According to them, the move will ease financial pressure on families, curb unhealthy competition among students and restore graduations to their original purpose: a celebration of learning rather than a showcase of wealth.(NAN) Mrs Bolanle Oyewole, whose daughter is graduating from kindergarten to primary school, said the financial requirements were unjustifiable.“My daughter was asked to pay N20,000 for graduation. It may create memories for the child, but it is an unnecessary expense.“The child will still remain in the same school and continue learning with the same classmates,” she said.Mr Sunday Akpan, an estate agent, said he had decided not to allow his son to participate in his school’s JSS 3 graduation because of the cost.“My son is moving from JSS 3 to SS1 in the same school. He is not changing schools, so I don’t see the point of organising a graduation and asking parents to pay a certain amount of money.“I have already told him he will not be attending,” Akpan said.Some parents also expressed concern that ceremonies have become so commercialised that even non-graduating pupils feel pressured to participate.Mrs Linda Ogbonna recalled how her JSS 2 daughter pleaded with her to pay N30,000 to attend a ceremony at her school because graduating students were to receive gift packs.“My daughter cried and begged me to pay because she wanted the gift pack that would be shared during the ceremony, even though she wasn’t graduating,” she said.Related NewsAbia to sanction schools collecting ‘unauthorised’ graduation leviesOutsourcing operators seek reforms to position Nigeria globallyDigital payments drive Nigeria’s $11bn food industry expansionOthers, however, believe the occasion is worth celebrating despite the economic situation.Mrs Nkem Okoye, a businesswoman, said she was prepared to celebrate her daughter’s secondary school graduation.“It is not easy to raise a child to this stage.“It is a celebration for both of us.“I don’t mind spending on her graduation,” she said.The growing demand for elaborate graduation attire has also presented business opportunities for tailors, even as many of them note that customers frequently undervalue the cost of skilled craftsmanship.A tailor, popularly known as Iya Baraka, in Ebute-Meta, said many requests involved complicated styles that required considerable time and expertise.“Graduation fabrics are coming in, but the styles people bring are very complicated.“When you tell them the price for making the dresses, they complain.“They want a beautiful outfit but are not willing to pay for the work involved,” she said.Another tailor, Ms Rasheedat Abdullahi, said she had received numerous orders but had declined some because customers expected quality work at very low prices.“This month alone, many customers have brought fabrics, but I have had to turn some of them down because they were not considerate.“They assume that because you operate from a small shop and you are young, you should charge very little.“They don’t consider the time, effort and expertise required to produce the outfits they request,” she said.While a number of tailors reported increased patronage, others noted that the prevailing economic climate was affecting demand.Aliyah Tunde said customers had yet to come in large numbers but remained optimistic that business would improve.Similarly, Seun Olawale said he had received only a few orders, noting that many male students now preferred outfits they could wear after the ceremony instead of expensive suits.Education stakeholders who spoke with NAN said the growing extravagance surrounding school graduations calls for moderation.They urged schools to place more emphasis on academic achievement than on fashion displays by adopting standard graduation gowns instead of requiring parents to source specific fabrics, colours and expensive bespoke outfits.According to them, the move will ease financial pressure on families, curb unhealthy competition among students and restore graduations to their original purpose: a celebration of learning rather than a showcase of wealth.(NAN) “My daughter was asked to pay N20,000 for graduation. It may create memories for the child, but it is an unnecessary expense.“The child will still remain in the same school and continue learning with the same classmates,” she said.Mr Sunday Akpan, an estate agent, said he had decided not to allow his son to participate in his school’s JSS 3 graduation because of the cost.“My son is moving from JSS 3 to SS1 in the same school. He is not changing schools, so I don’t see the point of organising a graduation and asking parents to pay a certain amount of money.“I have already told him he will not be attending,” Akpan said.Some parents also expressed concern that ceremonies have become so commercialised that even non-graduating pupils feel pressured to participate.Mrs Linda Ogbonna recalled how her JSS 2 daughter pleaded with her to pay N30,000 to attend a ceremony at her school because graduating students were to receive gift packs.“My daughter cried and begged me to pay because she wanted the gift pack that would be shared during the ceremony, even though she wasn’t graduating,” she said.Related NewsAbia to sanction schools collecting ‘unauthorised’ graduation leviesOutsourcing operators seek reforms to position Nigeria globallyDigital payments drive Nigeria’s $11bn food industry expansionOthers, however, believe the occasion is worth celebrating despite the economic situation.Mrs Nkem Okoye, a businesswoman, said she was prepared to celebrate her daughter’s secondary school graduation.“It is not easy to raise a child to this stage.“It is a celebration for both of us.“I don’t mind spending on her graduation,” she said.The growing demand for elaborate graduation attire has also presented business opportunities for tailors, even as many of them note that customers frequently undervalue the cost of skilled craftsmanship.A tailor, popularly known as Iya Baraka, in Ebute-Meta, said many requests involved complicated styles that required considerable time and expertise.“Graduation fabrics are coming in, but the styles people bring are very complicated.“When you tell them the price for making the dresses, they complain.“They want a beautiful outfit but are not willing to pay for the work involved,” she said.Another tailor, Ms Rasheedat Abdullahi, said she had received numerous orders but had declined some because customers expected quality work at very low prices.“This month alone, many customers have brought fabrics, but I have had to turn some of them down because they were not considerate.“They assume that because you operate from a small shop and you are young, you should charge very little.“They don’t consider the time, effort and expertise required to produce the outfits they request,” she said.While a number of tailors reported increased patronage, others noted that the prevailing economic climate was affecting demand.Aliyah Tunde said customers had yet to come in large numbers but remained optimistic that business would improve.Similarly, Seun Olawale said he had received only a few orders, noting that many male students now preferred outfits they could wear after the ceremony instead of expensive suits.Education stakeholders who spoke with NAN said the growing extravagance surrounding school graduations calls for moderation.They urged schools to place more emphasis on academic achievement than on fashion displays by adopting standard graduation gowns instead of requiring parents to source specific fabrics, colours and expensive bespoke outfits.According to them, the move will ease financial pressure on families, curb unhealthy competition among students and restore graduations to their original purpose: a celebration of learning rather than a showcase of wealth.(NAN) “The child will still remain in the same school and continue learning with the same classmates,” she said.Mr Sunday Akpan, an estate agent, said he had decided not to allow his son to participate in his school’s JSS 3 graduation because of the cost.“My son is moving from JSS 3 to SS1 in the same school. He is not changing schools, so I don’t see the point of organising a graduation and asking parents to pay a certain amount of money.“I have already told him he will not be attending,” Akpan said.Some parents also expressed concern that ceremonies have become so commercialised that even non-graduating pupils feel pressured to participate.Mrs Linda Ogbonna recalled how her JSS 2 daughter pleaded with her to pay N30,000 to attend a ceremony at her school because graduating students were to receive gift packs.“My daughter cried and begged me to pay because she wanted the gift pack that would be shared during the ceremony, even though she wasn’t graduating,” she said.Related NewsAbia to sanction schools collecting ‘unauthorised’ graduation leviesOutsourcing operators seek reforms to position Nigeria globallyDigital payments drive Nigeria’s $11bn food industry expansionOthers, however, believe the occasion is worth celebrating despite the economic situation.Mrs Nkem Okoye, a businesswoman, said she was prepared to celebrate her daughter’s secondary school graduation.“It is not easy to raise a child to this stage.“It is a celebration for both of us.“I don’t mind spending on her graduation,” she said.The growing demand for elaborate graduation attire has also presented business opportunities for tailors, even as many of them note that customers frequently undervalue the cost of skilled craftsmanship.A tailor, popularly known as Iya Baraka, in Ebute-Meta, said many requests involved complicated styles that required considerable time and expertise.“Graduation fabrics are coming in, but the styles people bring are very complicated.“When you tell them the price for making the dresses, they complain.“They want a beautiful outfit but are not willing to pay for the work involved,” she said.Another tailor, Ms Rasheedat Abdullahi, said she had received numerous orders but had declined some because customers expected quality work at very low prices.“This month alone, many customers have brought fabrics, but I have had to turn some of them down because they were not considerate.“They assume that because you operate from a small shop and you are young, you should charge very little.“They don’t consider the time, effort and expertise required to produce the outfits they request,” she said.While a number of tailors reported increased patronage, others noted that the prevailing economic climate was affecting demand.Aliyah Tunde said customers had yet to come in large numbers but remained optimistic that business would improve.Similarly, Seun Olawale said he had received only a few orders, noting that many male students now preferred outfits they could wear after the ceremony instead of expensive suits.Education stakeholders who spoke with NAN said the growing extravagance surrounding school graduations calls for moderation.They urged schools to place more emphasis on academic achievement than on fashion displays by adopting standard graduation gowns instead of requiring parents to source specific fabrics, colours and expensive bespoke outfits.According to them, the move will ease financial pressure on families, curb unhealthy competition among students and restore graduations to their original purpose: a celebration of learning rather than a showcase of wealth.(NAN) Mr Sunday Akpan, an estate agent, said he had decided not to allow his son to participate in his school’s JSS 3 graduation because of the cost.“My son is moving from JSS 3 to SS1 in the same school. He is not changing schools, so I don’t see the point of organising a graduation and asking parents to pay a certain amount of money.“I have already told him he will not be attending,” Akpan said.Some parents also expressed concern that ceremonies have become so commercialised that even non-graduating pupils feel pressured to participate.Mrs Linda Ogbonna recalled how her JSS 2 daughter pleaded with her to pay N30,000 to attend a ceremony at her school because graduating students were to receive gift packs.“My daughter cried and begged me to pay because she wanted the gift pack that would be shared during the ceremony, even though she wasn’t graduating,” she said.Related NewsAbia to sanction schools collecting ‘unauthorised’ graduation leviesOutsourcing operators seek reforms to position Nigeria globallyDigital payments drive Nigeria’s $11bn food industry expansionOthers, however, believe the occasion is worth celebrating despite the economic situation.Mrs Nkem Okoye, a businesswoman, said she was prepared to celebrate her daughter’s secondary school graduation.“It is not easy to raise a child to this stage.“It is a celebration for both of us.“I don’t mind spending on her graduation,” she said.The growing demand for elaborate graduation attire has also presented business opportunities for tailors, even as many of them note that customers frequently undervalue the cost of skilled craftsmanship.A tailor, popularly known as Iya Baraka, in Ebute-Meta, said many requests involved complicated styles that required considerable time and expertise.“Graduation fabrics are coming in, but the styles people bring are very complicated.“When you tell them the price for making the dresses, they complain.“They want a beautiful outfit but are not willing to pay for the work involved,” she said.Another tailor, Ms Rasheedat Abdullahi, said she had received numerous orders but had declined some because customers expected quality work at very low prices.“This month alone, many customers have brought fabrics, but I have had to turn some of them down because they were not considerate.“They assume that because you operate from a small shop and you are young, you should charge very little.“They don’t consider the time, effort and expertise required to produce the outfits they request,” she said.While a number of tailors reported increased patronage, others noted that the prevailing economic climate was affecting demand.Aliyah Tunde said customers had yet to come in large numbers but remained optimistic that business would improve.Similarly, Seun Olawale said he had received only a few orders, noting that many male students now preferred outfits they could wear after the ceremony instead of expensive suits.Education stakeholders who spoke with NAN said the growing extravagance surrounding school graduations calls for moderation.They urged schools to place more emphasis on academic achievement than on fashion displays by adopting standard graduation gowns instead of requiring parents to source specific fabrics, colours and expensive bespoke outfits.According to them, the move will ease financial pressure on families, curb unhealthy competition among students and restore graduations to their original purpose: a celebration of learning rather than a showcase of wealth.(NAN) “My son is moving from JSS 3 to SS1 in the same school. He is not changing schools, so I don’t see the point of organising a graduation and asking parents to pay a certain amount of money.“I have already told him he will not be attending,” Akpan said.Some parents also expressed concern that ceremonies have become so commercialised that even non-graduating pupils feel pressured to participate.Mrs Linda Ogbonna recalled how her JSS 2 daughter pleaded with her to pay N30,000 to attend a ceremony at her school because graduating students were to receive gift packs.“My daughter cried and begged me to pay because she wanted the gift pack that would be shared during the ceremony, even though she wasn’t graduating,” she said.Related NewsAbia to sanction schools collecting ‘unauthorised’ graduation leviesOutsourcing operators seek reforms to position Nigeria globallyDigital payments drive Nigeria’s $11bn food industry expansionOthers, however, believe the occasion is worth celebrating despite the economic situation.Mrs Nkem Okoye, a businesswoman, said she was prepared to celebrate her daughter’s secondary school graduation.“It is not easy to raise a child to this stage.“It is a celebration for both of us.“I don’t mind spending on her graduation,” she said.The growing demand for elaborate graduation attire has also presented business opportunities for tailors, even as many of them note that customers frequently undervalue the cost of skilled craftsmanship.A tailor, popularly known as Iya Baraka, in Ebute-Meta, said many requests involved complicated styles that required considerable time and expertise.“Graduation fabrics are coming in, but the styles people bring are very complicated.“When you tell them the price for making the dresses, they complain.“They want a beautiful outfit but are not willing to pay for the work involved,” she said.Another tailor, Ms Rasheedat Abdullahi, said she had received numerous orders but had declined some because customers expected quality work at very low prices.“This month alone, many customers have brought fabrics, but I have had to turn some of them down because they were not considerate.“They assume that because you operate from a small shop and you are young, you should charge very little.“They don’t consider the time, effort and expertise required to produce the outfits they request,” she said.While a number of tailors reported increased patronage, others noted that the prevailing economic climate was affecting demand.Aliyah Tunde said customers had yet to come in large numbers but remained optimistic that business would improve.Similarly, Seun Olawale said he had received only a few orders, noting that many male students now preferred outfits they could wear after the ceremony instead of expensive suits.Education stakeholders who spoke with NAN said the growing extravagance surrounding school graduations calls for moderation.They urged schools to place more emphasis on academic achievement than on fashion displays by adopting standard graduation gowns instead of requiring parents to source specific fabrics, colours and expensive bespoke outfits.According to them, the move will ease financial pressure on families, curb unhealthy competition among students and restore graduations to their original purpose: a celebration of learning rather than a showcase of wealth.(NAN) “I have already told him he will not be attending,” Akpan said.Some parents also expressed concern that ceremonies have become so commercialised that even non-graduating pupils feel pressured to participate.Mrs Linda Ogbonna recalled how her JSS 2 daughter pleaded with her to pay N30,000 to attend a ceremony at her school because graduating students were to receive gift packs.“My daughter cried and begged me to pay because she wanted the gift pack that would be shared during the ceremony, even though she wasn’t graduating,” she said.Related NewsAbia to sanction schools collecting ‘unauthorised’ graduation leviesOutsourcing operators seek reforms to position Nigeria globallyDigital payments drive Nigeria’s $11bn food industry expansionOthers, however, believe the occasion is worth celebrating despite the economic situation.Mrs Nkem Okoye, a businesswoman, said she was prepared to celebrate her daughter’s secondary school graduation.“It is not easy to raise a child to this stage.“It is a celebration for both of us.“I don’t mind spending on her graduation,” she said.The growing demand for elaborate graduation attire has also presented business opportunities for tailors, even as many of them note that customers frequently undervalue the cost of skilled craftsmanship.A tailor, popularly known as Iya Baraka, in Ebute-Meta, said many requests involved complicated styles that required considerable time and expertise.“Graduation fabrics are coming in, but the styles people bring are very complicated.“When you tell them the price for making the dresses, they complain.“They want a beautiful outfit but are not willing to pay for the work involved,” she said.Another tailor, Ms Rasheedat Abdullahi, said she had received numerous orders but had declined some because customers expected quality work at very low prices.“This month alone, many customers have brought fabrics, but I have had to turn some of them down because they were not considerate.“They assume that because you operate from a small shop and you are young, you should charge very little.“They don’t consider the time, effort and expertise required to produce the outfits they request,” she said.While a number of tailors reported increased patronage, others noted that the prevailing economic climate was affecting demand.Aliyah Tunde said customers had yet to come in large numbers but remained optimistic that business would improve.Similarly, Seun Olawale said he had received only a few orders, noting that many male students now preferred outfits they could wear after the ceremony instead of expensive suits.Education stakeholders who spoke with NAN said the growing extravagance surrounding school graduations calls for moderation.They urged schools to place more emphasis on academic achievement than on fashion displays by adopting standard graduation gowns instead of requiring parents to source specific fabrics, colours and expensive bespoke outfits.According to them, the move will ease financial pressure on families, curb unhealthy competition among students and restore graduations to their original purpose: a celebration of learning rather than a showcase of wealth.(NAN) Some parents also expressed concern that ceremonies have become so commercialised that even non-graduating pupils feel pressured to participate.Mrs Linda Ogbonna recalled how her JSS 2 daughter pleaded with her to pay N30,000 to attend a ceremony at her school because graduating students were to receive gift packs.“My daughter cried and begged me to pay because she wanted the gift pack that would be shared during the ceremony, even though she wasn’t graduating,” she said.Related NewsAbia to sanction schools collecting ‘unauthorised’ graduation leviesOutsourcing operators seek reforms to position Nigeria globallyDigital payments drive Nigeria’s $11bn food industry expansionOthers, however, believe the occasion is worth celebrating despite the economic situation.Mrs Nkem Okoye, a businesswoman, said she was prepared to celebrate her daughter’s secondary school graduation.“It is not easy to raise a child to this stage.“It is a celebration for both of us.“I don’t mind spending on her graduation,” she said.The growing demand for elaborate graduation attire has also presented business opportunities for tailors, even as many of them note that customers frequently undervalue the cost of skilled craftsmanship.A tailor, popularly known as Iya Baraka, in Ebute-Meta, said many requests involved complicated styles that required considerable time and expertise.“Graduation fabrics are coming in, but the styles people bring are very complicated.“When you tell them the price for making the dresses, they complain.“They want a beautiful outfit but are not willing to pay for the work involved,” she said.Another tailor, Ms Rasheedat Abdullahi, said she had received numerous orders but had declined some because customers expected quality work at very low prices.“This month alone, many customers have brought fabrics, but I have had to turn some of them down because they were not considerate.“They assume that because you operate from a small shop and you are young, you should charge very little.“They don’t consider the time, effort and expertise required to produce the outfits they request,” she said.While a number of tailors reported increased patronage, others noted that the prevailing economic climate was affecting demand.Aliyah Tunde said customers had yet to come in large numbers but remained optimistic that business would improve.Similarly, Seun Olawale said he had received only a few orders, noting that many male students now preferred outfits they could wear after the ceremony instead of expensive suits.Education stakeholders who spoke with NAN said the growing extravagance surrounding school graduations calls for moderation.They urged schools to place more emphasis on academic achievement than on fashion displays by adopting standard graduation gowns instead of requiring parents to source specific fabrics, colours and expensive bespoke outfits.According to them, the move will ease financial pressure on families, curb unhealthy competition among students and restore graduations to their original purpose: a celebration of learning rather than a showcase of wealth.(NAN) Mrs Linda Ogbonna recalled how her JSS 2 daughter pleaded with her to pay N30,000 to attend a ceremony at her school because graduating students were to receive gift packs.“My daughter cried and begged me to pay because she wanted the gift pack that would be shared during the ceremony, even though she wasn’t graduating,” she said.Related NewsAbia to sanction schools collecting ‘unauthorised’ graduation leviesOutsourcing operators seek reforms to position Nigeria globallyDigital payments drive Nigeria’s $11bn food industry expansionOthers, however, believe the occasion is worth celebrating despite the economic situation.Mrs Nkem Okoye, a businesswoman, said she was prepared to celebrate her daughter’s secondary school graduation.“It is not easy to raise a child to this stage.“It is a celebration for both of us.“I don’t mind spending on her graduation,” she said.The growing demand for elaborate graduation attire has also presented business opportunities for tailors, even as many of them note that customers frequently undervalue the cost of skilled craftsmanship.A tailor, popularly known as Iya Baraka, in Ebute-Meta, said many requests involved complicated styles that required considerable time and expertise.“Graduation fabrics are coming in, but the styles people bring are very complicated.“When you tell them the price for making the dresses, they complain.“They want a beautiful outfit but are not willing to pay for the work involved,” she said.Another tailor, Ms Rasheedat Abdullahi, said she had received numerous orders but had declined some because customers expected quality work at very low prices.“This month alone, many customers have brought fabrics, but I have had to turn some of them down because they were not considerate.“They assume that because you operate from a small shop and you are young, you should charge very little.“They don’t consider the time, effort and expertise required to produce the outfits they request,” she said.While a number of tailors reported increased patronage, others noted that the prevailing economic climate was affecting demand.Aliyah Tunde said customers had yet to come in large numbers but remained optimistic that business would improve.Similarly, Seun Olawale said he had received only a few orders, noting that many male students now preferred outfits they could wear after the ceremony instead of expensive suits.Education stakeholders who spoke with NAN said the growing extravagance surrounding school graduations calls for moderation.They urged schools to place more emphasis on academic achievement than on fashion displays by adopting standard graduation gowns instead of requiring parents to source specific fabrics, colours and expensive bespoke outfits.According to them, the move will ease financial pressure on families, curb unhealthy competition among students and restore graduations to their original purpose: a celebration of learning rather than a showcase of wealth.(NAN) “My daughter cried and begged me to pay because she wanted the gift pack that would be shared during the ceremony, even though she wasn’t graduating,” she said.Related NewsAbia to sanction schools collecting ‘unauthorised’ graduation leviesOutsourcing operators seek reforms to position Nigeria globallyDigital payments drive Nigeria’s $11bn food industry expansionOthers, however, believe the occasion is worth celebrating despite the economic situation.Mrs Nkem Okoye, a businesswoman, said she was prepared to celebrate her daughter’s secondary school graduation.“It is not easy to raise a child to this stage.“It is a celebration for both of us.“I don’t mind spending on her graduation,” she said.The growing demand for elaborate graduation attire has also presented business opportunities for tailors, even as many of them note that customers frequently undervalue the cost of skilled craftsmanship.A tailor, popularly known as Iya Baraka, in Ebute-Meta, said many requests involved complicated styles that required considerable time and expertise.“Graduation fabrics are coming in, but the styles people bring are very complicated.“When you tell them the price for making the dresses, they complain.“They want a beautiful outfit but are not willing to pay for the work involved,” she said.Another tailor, Ms Rasheedat Abdullahi, said she had received numerous orders but had declined some because customers expected quality work at very low prices.“This month alone, many customers have brought fabrics, but I have had to turn some of them down because they were not considerate.“They assume that because you operate from a small shop and you are young, you should charge very little.“They don’t consider the time, effort and expertise required to produce the outfits they request,” she said.While a number of tailors reported increased patronage, others noted that the prevailing economic climate was affecting demand.Aliyah Tunde said customers had yet to come in large numbers but remained optimistic that business would improve.Similarly, Seun Olawale said he had received only a few orders, noting that many male students now preferred outfits they could wear after the ceremony instead of expensive suits.Education stakeholders who spoke with NAN said the growing extravagance surrounding school graduations calls for moderation.They urged schools to place more emphasis on academic achievement than on fashion displays by adopting standard graduation gowns instead of requiring parents to source specific fabrics, colours and expensive bespoke outfits.According to them, the move will ease financial pressure on families, curb unhealthy competition among students and restore graduations to their original purpose: a celebration of learning rather than a showcase of wealth.(NAN) Others, however, believe the occasion is worth celebrating despite the economic situation.Mrs Nkem Okoye, a businesswoman, said she was prepared to celebrate her daughter’s secondary school graduation.“It is not easy to raise a child to this stage.“It is a celebration for both of us.“I don’t mind spending on her graduation,” she said.The growing demand for elaborate graduation attire has also presented business opportunities for tailors, even as many of them note that customers frequently undervalue the cost of skilled craftsmanship.A tailor, popularly known as Iya Baraka, in Ebute-Meta, said many requests involved complicated styles that required considerable time and expertise.“Graduation fabrics are coming in, but the styles people bring are very complicated.“When you tell them the price for making the dresses, they complain.“They want a beautiful outfit but are not willing to pay for the work involved,” she said.Another tailor, Ms Rasheedat Abdullahi, said she had received numerous orders but had declined some because customers expected quality work at very low prices.“This month alone, many customers have brought fabrics, but I have had to turn some of them down because they were not considerate.“They assume that because you operate from a small shop and you are young, you should charge very little.“They don’t consider the time, effort and expertise required to produce the outfits they request,” she said.While a number of tailors reported increased patronage, others noted that the prevailing economic climate was affecting demand.Aliyah Tunde said customers had yet to come in large numbers but remained optimistic that business would improve.Similarly, Seun Olawale said he had received only a few orders, noting that many male students now preferred outfits they could wear after the ceremony instead of expensive suits.Education stakeholders who spoke with NAN said the growing extravagance surrounding school graduations calls for moderation.They urged schools to place more emphasis on academic achievement than on fashion displays by adopting standard graduation gowns instead of requiring parents to source specific fabrics, colours and expensive bespoke outfits.According to them, the move will ease financial pressure on families, curb unhealthy competition among students and restore graduations to their original purpose: a celebration of learning rather than a showcase of wealth.(NAN) Mrs Nkem Okoye, a businesswoman, said she was prepared to celebrate her daughter’s secondary school graduation.“It is not easy to raise a child to this stage.“It is a celebration for both of us.“I don’t mind spending on her graduation,” she said.The growing demand for elaborate graduation attire has also presented business opportunities for tailors, even as many of them note that customers frequently undervalue the cost of skilled craftsmanship.A tailor, popularly known as Iya Baraka, in Ebute-Meta, said many requests involved complicated styles that required considerable time and expertise.“Graduation fabrics are coming in, but the styles people bring are very complicated.“When you tell them the price for making the dresses, they complain.“They want a beautiful outfit but are not willing to pay for the work involved,” she said.Another tailor, Ms Rasheedat Abdullahi, said she had received numerous orders but had declined some because customers expected quality work at very low prices.“This month alone, many customers have brought fabrics, but I have had to turn some of them down because they were not considerate.“They assume that because you operate from a small shop and you are young, you should charge very little.“They don’t consider the time, effort and expertise required to produce the outfits they request,” she said.While a number of tailors reported increased patronage, others noted that the prevailing economic climate was affecting demand.Aliyah Tunde said customers had yet to come in large numbers but remained optimistic that business would improve.Similarly, Seun Olawale said he had received only a few orders, noting that many male students now preferred outfits they could wear after the ceremony instead of expensive suits.Education stakeholders who spoke with NAN said the growing extravagance surrounding school graduations calls for moderation.They urged schools to place more emphasis on academic achievement than on fashion displays by adopting standard graduation gowns instead of requiring parents to source specific fabrics, colours and expensive bespoke outfits.According to them, the move will ease financial pressure on families, curb unhealthy competition among students and restore graduations to their original purpose: a celebration of learning rather than a showcase of wealth.(NAN) “It is not easy to raise a child to this stage.“It is a celebration for both of us.“I don’t mind spending on her graduation,” she said.The growing demand for elaborate graduation attire has also presented business opportunities for tailors, even as many of them note that customers frequently undervalue the cost of skilled craftsmanship.A tailor, popularly known as Iya Baraka, in Ebute-Meta, said many requests involved complicated styles that required considerable time and expertise.“Graduation fabrics are coming in, but the styles people bring are very complicated.“When you tell them the price for making the dresses, they complain.“They want a beautiful outfit but are not willing to pay for the work involved,” she said.Another tailor, Ms Rasheedat Abdullahi, said she had received numerous orders but had declined some because customers expected quality work at very low prices.“This month alone, many customers have brought fabrics, but I have had to turn some of them down because they were not considerate.“They assume that because you operate from a small shop and you are young, you should charge very little.“They don’t consider the time, effort and expertise required to produce the outfits they request,” she said.While a number of tailors reported increased patronage, others noted that the prevailing economic climate was affecting demand.Aliyah Tunde said customers had yet to come in large numbers but remained optimistic that business would improve.Similarly, Seun Olawale said he had received only a few orders, noting that many male students now preferred outfits they could wear after the ceremony instead of expensive suits.Education stakeholders who spoke with NAN said the growing extravagance surrounding school graduations calls for moderation.They urged schools to place more emphasis on academic achievement than on fashion displays by adopting standard graduation gowns instead of requiring parents to source specific fabrics, colours and expensive bespoke outfits.According to them, the move will ease financial pressure on families, curb unhealthy competition among students and restore graduations to their original purpose: a celebration of learning rather than a showcase of wealth.(NAN) “It is a celebration for both of us.“I don’t mind spending on her graduation,” she said.The growing demand for elaborate graduation attire has also presented business opportunities for tailors, even as many of them note that customers frequently undervalue the cost of skilled craftsmanship.A tailor, popularly known as Iya Baraka, in Ebute-Meta, said many requests involved complicated styles that required considerable time and expertise.“Graduation fabrics are coming in, but the styles people bring are very complicated.“When you tell them the price for making the dresses, they complain.“They want a beautiful outfit but are not willing to pay for the work involved,” she said.Another tailor, Ms Rasheedat Abdullahi, said she had received numerous orders but had declined some because customers expected quality work at very low prices.“This month alone, many customers have brought fabrics, but I have had to turn some of them down because they were not considerate.“They assume that because you operate from a small shop and you are young, you should charge very little.“They don’t consider the time, effort and expertise required to produce the outfits they request,” she said.While a number of tailors reported increased patronage, others noted that the prevailing economic climate was affecting demand.Aliyah Tunde said customers had yet to come in large numbers but remained optimistic that business would improve.Similarly, Seun Olawale said he had received only a few orders, noting that many male students now preferred outfits they could wear after the ceremony instead of expensive suits.Education stakeholders who spoke with NAN said the growing extravagance surrounding school graduations calls for moderation.They urged schools to place more emphasis on academic achievement than on fashion displays by adopting standard graduation gowns instead of requiring parents to source specific fabrics, colours and expensive bespoke outfits.According to them, the move will ease financial pressure on families, curb unhealthy competition among students and restore graduations to their original purpose: a celebration of learning rather than a showcase of wealth.(NAN) “I don’t mind spending on her graduation,” she said.The growing demand for elaborate graduation attire has also presented business opportunities for tailors, even as many of them note that customers frequently undervalue the cost of skilled craftsmanship.A tailor, popularly known as Iya Baraka, in Ebute-Meta, said many requests involved complicated styles that required considerable time and expertise.“Graduation fabrics are coming in, but the styles people bring are very complicated.“When you tell them the price for making the dresses, they complain.“They want a beautiful outfit but are not willing to pay for the work involved,” she said.Another tailor, Ms Rasheedat Abdullahi, said she had received numerous orders but had declined some because customers expected quality work at very low prices.“This month alone, many customers have brought fabrics, but I have had to turn some of them down because they were not considerate.“They assume that because you operate from a small shop and you are young, you should charge very little.“They don’t consider the time, effort and expertise required to produce the outfits they request,” she said.While a number of tailors reported increased patronage, others noted that the prevailing economic climate was affecting demand.Aliyah Tunde said customers had yet to come in large numbers but remained optimistic that business would improve.Similarly, Seun Olawale said he had received only a few orders, noting that many male students now preferred outfits they could wear after the ceremony instead of expensive suits.Education stakeholders who spoke with NAN said the growing extravagance surrounding school graduations calls for moderation.They urged schools to place more emphasis on academic achievement than on fashion displays by adopting standard graduation gowns instead of requiring parents to source specific fabrics, colours and expensive bespoke outfits.According to them, the move will ease financial pressure on families, curb unhealthy competition among students and restore graduations to their original purpose: a celebration of learning rather than a showcase of wealth.(NAN) The growing demand for elaborate graduation attire has also presented business opportunities for tailors, even as many of them note that customers frequently undervalue the cost of skilled craftsmanship.A tailor, popularly known as Iya Baraka, in Ebute-Meta, said many requests involved complicated styles that required considerable time and expertise.“Graduation fabrics are coming in, but the styles people bring are very complicated.“When you tell them the price for making the dresses, they complain.“They want a beautiful outfit but are not willing to pay for the work involved,” she said.Another tailor, Ms Rasheedat Abdullahi, said she had received numerous orders but had declined some because customers expected quality work at very low prices.“This month alone, many customers have brought fabrics, but I have had to turn some of them down because they were not considerate.“They assume that because you operate from a small shop and you are young, you should charge very little.“They don’t consider the time, effort and expertise required to produce the outfits they request,” she said.While a number of tailors reported increased patronage, others noted that the prevailing economic climate was affecting demand.Aliyah Tunde said customers had yet to come in large numbers but remained optimistic that business would improve.Similarly, Seun Olawale said he had received only a few orders, noting that many male students now preferred outfits they could wear after the ceremony instead of expensive suits.Education stakeholders who spoke with NAN said the growing extravagance surrounding school graduations calls for moderation.They urged schools to place more emphasis on academic achievement than on fashion displays by adopting standard graduation gowns instead of requiring parents to source specific fabrics, colours and expensive bespoke outfits.According to them, the move will ease financial pressure on families, curb unhealthy competition among students and restore graduations to their original purpose: a celebration of learning rather than a showcase of wealth.(NAN) A tailor, popularly known as Iya Baraka, in Ebute-Meta, said many requests involved complicated styles that required considerable time and expertise.“Graduation fabrics are coming in, but the styles people bring are very complicated.“When you tell them the price for making the dresses, they complain.“They want a beautiful outfit but are not willing to pay for the work involved,” she said.Another tailor, Ms Rasheedat Abdullahi, said she had received numerous orders but had declined some because customers expected quality work at very low prices.“This month alone, many customers have brought fabrics, but I have had to turn some of them down because they were not considerate.“They assume that because you operate from a small shop and you are young, you should charge very little.“They don’t consider the time, effort and expertise required to produce the outfits they request,” she said.While a number of tailors reported increased patronage, others noted that the prevailing economic climate was affecting demand.Aliyah Tunde said customers had yet to come in large numbers but remained optimistic that business would improve.Similarly, Seun Olawale said he had received only a few orders, noting that many male students now preferred outfits they could wear after the ceremony instead of expensive suits.Education stakeholders who spoke with NAN said the growing extravagance surrounding school graduations calls for moderation.They urged schools to place more emphasis on academic achievement than on fashion displays by adopting standard graduation gowns instead of requiring parents to source specific fabrics, colours and expensive bespoke outfits.According to them, the move will ease financial pressure on families, curb unhealthy competition among students and restore graduations to their original purpose: a celebration of learning rather than a showcase of wealth.(NAN) “Graduation fabrics are coming in, but the styles people bring are very complicated.“When you tell them the price for making the dresses, they complain.“They want a beautiful outfit but are not willing to pay for the work involved,” she said.Another tailor, Ms Rasheedat Abdullahi, said she had received numerous orders but had declined some because customers expected quality work at very low prices.“This month alone, many customers have brought fabrics, but I have had to turn some of them down because they were not considerate.“They assume that because you operate from a small shop and you are young, you should charge very little.“They don’t consider the time, effort and expertise required to produce the outfits they request,” she said.While a number of tailors reported increased patronage, others noted that the prevailing economic climate was affecting demand.Aliyah Tunde said customers had yet to come in large numbers but remained optimistic that business would improve.Similarly, Seun Olawale said he had received only a few orders, noting that many male students now preferred outfits they could wear after the ceremony instead of expensive suits.Education stakeholders who spoke with NAN said the growing extravagance surrounding school graduations calls for moderation.They urged schools to place more emphasis on academic achievement than on fashion displays by adopting standard graduation gowns instead of requiring parents to source specific fabrics, colours and expensive bespoke outfits.According to them, the move will ease financial pressure on families, curb unhealthy competition among students and restore graduations to their original purpose: a celebration of learning rather than a showcase of wealth.(NAN) “When you tell them the price for making the dresses, they complain.“They want a beautiful outfit but are not willing to pay for the work involved,” she said.Another tailor, Ms Rasheedat Abdullahi, said she had received numerous orders but had declined some because customers expected quality work at very low prices.“This month alone, many customers have brought fabrics, but I have had to turn some of them down because they were not considerate.“They assume that because you operate from a small shop and you are young, you should charge very little.“They don’t consider the time, effort and expertise required to produce the outfits they request,” she said.While a number of tailors reported increased patronage, others noted that the prevailing economic climate was affecting demand.Aliyah Tunde said customers had yet to come in large numbers but remained optimistic that business would improve.Similarly, Seun Olawale said he had received only a few orders, noting that many male students now preferred outfits they could wear after the ceremony instead of expensive suits.Education stakeholders who spoke with NAN said the growing extravagance surrounding school graduations calls for moderation.They urged schools to place more emphasis on academic achievement than on fashion displays by adopting standard graduation gowns instead of requiring parents to source specific fabrics, colours and expensive bespoke outfits.According to them, the move will ease financial pressure on families, curb unhealthy competition among students and restore graduations to their original purpose: a celebration of learning rather than a showcase of wealth.(NAN) “They want a beautiful outfit but are not willing to pay for the work involved,” she said.Another tailor, Ms Rasheedat Abdullahi, said she had received numerous orders but had declined some because customers expected quality work at very low prices.“This month alone, many customers have brought fabrics, but I have had to turn some of them down because they were not considerate.“They assume that because you operate from a small shop and you are young, you should charge very little.“They don’t consider the time, effort and expertise required to produce the outfits they request,” she said.While a number of tailors reported increased patronage, others noted that the prevailing economic climate was affecting demand.Aliyah Tunde said customers had yet to come in large numbers but remained optimistic that business would improve.Similarly, Seun Olawale said he had received only a few orders, noting that many male students now preferred outfits they could wear after the ceremony instead of expensive suits.Education stakeholders who spoke with NAN said the growing extravagance surrounding school graduations calls for moderation.They urged schools to place more emphasis on academic achievement than on fashion displays by adopting standard graduation gowns instead of requiring parents to source specific fabrics, colours and expensive bespoke outfits.According to them, the move will ease financial pressure on families, curb unhealthy competition among students and restore graduations to their original purpose: a celebration of learning rather than a showcase of wealth.(NAN) Another tailor, Ms Rasheedat Abdullahi, said she had received numerous orders but had declined some because customers expected quality work at very low prices.“This month alone, many customers have brought fabrics, but I have had to turn some of them down because they were not considerate.“They assume that because you operate from a small shop and you are young, you should charge very little.“They don’t consider the time, effort and expertise required to produce the outfits they request,” she said.While a number of tailors reported increased patronage, others noted that the prevailing economic climate was affecting demand.Aliyah Tunde said customers had yet to come in large numbers but remained optimistic that business would improve.Similarly, Seun Olawale said he had received only a few orders, noting that many male students now preferred outfits they could wear after the ceremony instead of expensive suits.Education stakeholders who spoke with NAN said the growing extravagance surrounding school graduations calls for moderation.They urged schools to place more emphasis on academic achievement than on fashion displays by adopting standard graduation gowns instead of requiring parents to source specific fabrics, colours and expensive bespoke outfits.According to them, the move will ease financial pressure on families, curb unhealthy competition among students and restore graduations to their original purpose: a celebration of learning rather than a showcase of wealth.(NAN) “This month alone, many customers have brought fabrics, but I have had to turn some of them down because they were not considerate.“They assume that because you operate from a small shop and you are young, you should charge very little.“They don’t consider the time, effort and expertise required to produce the outfits they request,” she said.While a number of tailors reported increased patronage, others noted that the prevailing economic climate was affecting demand.Aliyah Tunde said customers had yet to come in large numbers but remained optimistic that business would improve.Similarly, Seun Olawale said he had received only a few orders, noting that many male students now preferred outfits they could wear after the ceremony instead of expensive suits.Education stakeholders who spoke with NAN said the growing extravagance surrounding school graduations calls for moderation.They urged schools to place more emphasis on academic achievement than on fashion displays by adopting standard graduation gowns instead of requiring parents to source specific fabrics, colours and expensive bespoke outfits.According to them, the move will ease financial pressure on families, curb unhealthy competition among students and restore graduations to their original purpose: a celebration of learning rather than a showcase of wealth.(NAN) “They assume that because you operate from a small shop and you are young, you should charge very little.“They don’t consider the time, effort and expertise required to produce the outfits they request,” she said.While a number of tailors reported increased patronage, others noted that the prevailing economic climate was affecting demand.Aliyah Tunde said customers had yet to come in large numbers but remained optimistic that business would improve.Similarly, Seun Olawale said he had received only a few orders, noting that many male students now preferred outfits they could wear after the ceremony instead of expensive suits.Education stakeholders who spoke with NAN said the growing extravagance surrounding school graduations calls for moderation.They urged schools to place more emphasis on academic achievement than on fashion displays by adopting standard graduation gowns instead of requiring parents to source specific fabrics, colours and expensive bespoke outfits.According to them, the move will ease financial pressure on families, curb unhealthy competition among students and restore graduations to their original purpose: a celebration of learning rather than a showcase of wealth.(NAN) “They don’t consider the time, effort and expertise required to produce the outfits they request,” she said.While a number of tailors reported increased patronage, others noted that the prevailing economic climate was affecting demand.Aliyah Tunde said customers had yet to come in large numbers but remained optimistic that business would improve.Similarly, Seun Olawale said he had received only a few orders, noting that many male students now preferred outfits they could wear after the ceremony instead of expensive suits.Education stakeholders who spoke with NAN said the growing extravagance surrounding school graduations calls for moderation.They urged schools to place more emphasis on academic achievement than on fashion displays by adopting standard graduation gowns instead of requiring parents to source specific fabrics, colours and expensive bespoke outfits.According to them, the move will ease financial pressure on families, curb unhealthy competition among students and restore graduations to their original purpose: a celebration of learning rather than a showcase of wealth.(NAN) While a number of tailors reported increased patronage, others noted that the prevailing economic climate was affecting demand.Aliyah Tunde said customers had yet to come in large numbers but remained optimistic that business would improve.Similarly, Seun Olawale said he had received only a few orders, noting that many male students now preferred outfits they could wear after the ceremony instead of expensive suits.Education stakeholders who spoke with NAN said the growing extravagance surrounding school graduations calls for moderation.They urged schools to place more emphasis on academic achievement than on fashion displays by adopting standard graduation gowns instead of requiring parents to source specific fabrics, colours and expensive bespoke outfits.According to them, the move will ease financial pressure on families, curb unhealthy competition among students and restore graduations to their original purpose: a celebration of learning rather than a showcase of wealth.(NAN) Aliyah Tunde said customers had yet to come in large numbers but remained optimistic that business would improve.Similarly, Seun Olawale said he had received only a few orders, noting that many male students now preferred outfits they could wear after the ceremony instead of expensive suits.Education stakeholders who spoke with NAN said the growing extravagance surrounding school graduations calls for moderation.They urged schools to place more emphasis on academic achievement than on fashion displays by adopting standard graduation gowns instead of requiring parents to source specific fabrics, colours and expensive bespoke outfits.According to them, the move will ease financial pressure on families, curb unhealthy competition among students and restore graduations to their original purpose: a celebration of learning rather than a showcase of wealth.(NAN) Similarly, Seun Olawale said he had received only a few orders, noting that many male students now preferred outfits they could wear after the ceremony instead of expensive suits.Education stakeholders who spoke with NAN said the growing extravagance surrounding school graduations calls for moderation.They urged schools to place more emphasis on academic achievement than on fashion displays by adopting standard graduation gowns instead of requiring parents to source specific fabrics, colours and expensive bespoke outfits.According to them, the move will ease financial pressure on families, curb unhealthy competition among students and restore graduations to their original purpose: a celebration of learning rather than a showcase of wealth.(NAN) Education stakeholders who spoke with NAN said the growing extravagance surrounding school graduations calls for moderation.They urged schools to place more emphasis on academic achievement than on fashion displays by adopting standard graduation gowns instead of requiring parents to source specific fabrics, colours and expensive bespoke outfits.According to them, the move will ease financial pressure on families, curb unhealthy competition among students and restore graduations to their original purpose: a celebration of learning rather than a showcase of wealth.(NAN) They urged schools to place more emphasis on academic achievement than on fashion displays by adopting standard graduation gowns instead of requiring parents to source specific fabrics, colours and expensive bespoke outfits.According to them, the move will ease financial pressure on families, curb unhealthy competition among students and restore graduations to their original purpose: a celebration of learning rather than a showcase of wealth.(NAN) According to them, the move will ease financial pressure on families, curb unhealthy competition among students and restore graduations to their original purpose: a celebration of learning rather than a showcase of wealth.(NAN) (NAN)