The Federal Government has officially set 16 years as the minimum age for admission into Nigeria’s tertiary institutions, describing the policy as mandatory and non-negotiable.
Minister of Education, Dr. Tunji Alausa, made the announcement on Tuesday during the opening session of the 2025 Policy Meeting of the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) in Abuja.
“This policy decision reflects a balance between cognitive maturity and academic preparedness. Sixteen years is non-negotiable,” Dr. Alausa stated firmly.
He emphasized that the directive is aimed at ensuring students are adequately mature for the rigours of higher education and warned tertiary institutions across the country to comply strictly with the policy.
Crackdown on Admission Fraud
The Minister also issued a stern warning to heads of tertiary institutions, cautioning them against engaging in any form of admission malpractice or fraud.
“Let me be clear — heads of institutions found complicit in admission fraud will be prosecuted and face the full weight of the law,” he said.
Dr. Alausa reiterated the government’s commitment to restoring integrity in the admissions process and enhancing the quality and credibility of Nigeria’s educational system.
The 2025 JAMB Policy Meeting brings together vice-chancellors, rectors, provosts, and other education stakeholders to deliberate on critical issues, including cut-off marks, admission quotas, and policy guidelines for the new academic session.
The new age requirement aligns with global practices and is expected to curb the trend of underage students in universities, polytechnics, and colleges of education.
