FG Sets 16 Years As Minimum Age For Admission Into University

The Federal Government has announced that Students below the age of 16 will no longer be given admission into university.

The Minister Of Education, Tunji Alausa,  disclosed this in Abuja on Tuesday while speaking at the policy meeting of the Joint Admissions and Matriculations Board in Abuja.

The announcement by the Minister is expected to bring to an end the unending debate about who is eligible for admission into tertiary institutions and at what age.

Recall that in July 2024, Tahir Mamman, the immediate past minister for education, had set 18 as the minimum age for admissions.

Following his removal, Mamman’s successor Tunji Alausa reversed the policy to tentatively cap the admission age at a minimum of 16.

JAMB had added that exceptionally brilliant candidates below 16 could sit for its annual Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination.

In October 2024, a landmark ruling in Delta resolved that JAMB could not legally impose a minimum age requirement.

The ruling effectively nullified JAMB’s minimum age policy.

The board, in February 2025, revealed that it had sought a stay of execution on the matter pending a then-ongoing appeal.

At the JAMB policy meeting, Alausa said Nigeria has officially adopted 16 as the minimum age for tertiary school admissions.

“The issue of age at entry into tertiary institutions has generated much debate, but our position is clear,” the minister said.

“The entry age for admission into tertiary institutions is now officially pegged at 16 years. It was reduced from 18, which was to be effective from this year’s exercise to the need for this compliance.

“This policy decision reflects a balance between cognitive maturity and academic preparedness. Sixteen years of age for admission is non-negotiable. Institutions are hereby directed to ensure strict compliance.

“We understand there may be a few exceptional cases, and provisions have already been made for legitimate exceptions, especially for gifted children or those with accelerated educational progress.

“However, this must be demonstrated and documented, and it must be justified.

“The ministry is firm in its resolve, and those attempting to circumvent this policy by altering age records will be sanctioned accordingly.”