Federal Government Sets 16 as Minimum Age for University Admission, Says Rule Is Non-Negotiable
The Federal Government has officially declared 16 years as the minimum age requirement for admission into all tertiary institutions across Nigeria.
The announcement was made by the Minister of Education, Dr. Tunji Alausa, during the opening session of the 2025 Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) Policy Meeting held on Tuesday in Abuja.
“This policy decision reflects a balance between cognitive maturity and academic preparedness. 16 years is non-negotiable,” Dr. Alausa stated firmly.
He emphasized that the policy is aimed at upholding educational standards and ensuring students are emotionally and mentally ready for the academic rigours of higher learning.
The minister issued a stern warning to heads of institutions, declaring that any school found admitting underage candidates or involved in admission fraud would face severe consequences, including prosecution.
“This age requirement is mandatory and non-negotiable,” he reiterated.
“Institutional heads complicit in admission fraud will face strict legal consequences.”
The directive is expected to have far-reaching implications for universities, polytechnics, and colleges of education across the country, particularly those known to bend the rules for early admission seekers.
The age benchmark is part of broader reforms aimed at sanitising the admission process and ensuring credibility and transparency in Nigeria’s tertiary education system.
Details to follow…
