The Federal Government has officially set 16 years as the minimum age requirement for admission into Nigeria’s tertiary institutions.
Minister of Education, Dr. Tunji Alausa, announced the new directive on Tuesday while declaring open the 2025 Policy Meeting of the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) in Abuja.
Alausa emphasised that the age benchmark is now official and non-negotiable.
“16 years of age for admission is not negotiable, and institutions are hereby directed to ensure strict compliance. we understand there may be a few exceptional cases; provision has already been made for legitimate exceptions, especially for gifted children and all those with accelerated educational pathways.
“However, it must be clearly demonstrated and documented. The ministry is firm in its resolve and those admitting to destroying its policy by altering age records will be sanctioned accordingly.”
Expanding on the government’s stance, the Minister said the age policy was designed to ensure both academic readiness and maturity among prospective students.
“The issue of age at entry has generated much debate, but our position is clear. the entry age for admission is now officially pegged at 16 years. this policy decision reflects a balance between cognitive maturity and academic preparedness.”
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