- Nigeria’s federal government has retained 16 years as the minimum admission age for tertiary institutions
- With respect to admissions policy, the country’s education minister emphasised a balance between inclusivity and academic readiness
- Strict guidelines have been established for the early admission of exceptionally-gifted candidates of Nigerian origin
Legit.ng journalist, Ridwan Adeola Yusuf, has over 9 years of experience covering education in Nigeria and Africa.
FCT, Abuja – Nigeria’s federal government (FG) has retained 16 years as the minimum admission age into tertiary institutions across the country.
Minister of Education, Tunji Alausa, made the disclosure on Monday, May 11, in Abuja while delivering his address at the 2026 Policy Meeting on admissions to tertiary institutions. The event was put together by the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB).
Source: Twitter
FG retains 16-year admission age
As reported by Vanguard, Alausa said the FG’s decision follows what he described as extensive consultations and policy reviews.
According to him, the policy was designed to strike a balance between academic readiness and inclusivity in Nigeria’s tertiary education system.
The Punch quoted the minister as saying:
“Following extensive consultations and policy reviews, the government has maintained sixteen (16) years as the minimum age for admission into tertiary institutions. This position reflects a careful balance between inclusivity and academic readiness.”
Early admission allowed under strict guidelines
Furthermore, Alausa explained that while the federal government recognises the existence of exceptionally gifted candidates who may meet academic requirements earlier than the stipulated age, such cases would be handled under strict guidelines.
He added:
“While we recognise the existence of exceptionally gifted individuals, such cases must be treated within clearly defined and rigorously enforced guidelines to preserve the integrity of the system as a whole.”
The education minister concluded that the framework is aimed at ensuring that early admissions do not compromise the maturity and preparedness required for tertiary education.
A tweet from JAMB confirming the entry age requirement for admission into Nigerian tertiary institutions can be viewed below via the X post:
Source: Twitter
Nigerians react to admissions-related update
Since the announcement in Abuja, Nigerians have reacted with mixed feelings.
Legit.ng captured some comments on X below:
@Muhamma95060588 wrote on X:
“That’s actually a good decision because many students complete secondary school around that age and deserve the opportunity to continue their education without unnecessary delays. Education should encourage young minds to grow and achieve their dreams.”
@Bhig_Teejay commented via X:
“Why 16, not 15?”
Temitayo Adelaja said via X:
“I hope it stays.”
Read more education news in Nigeria:
FG denies forming BEA scholars committee
Earlier, Legit.ng reported that the federal ministry of education dismissed reports alleging that returning scholars under the BEA are being reintegrated into Nigerian universities following the purported termination of the programme.
In a statement, the ministry described the report, which bore the title ‘BEA: Education Minister receives committee’s report,’ as entirely false and misleading.
According to the ministry, the alleged inauguration of a committee to facilitate the scholars’ reintegration never took place.
Source: Legit.ng