The Federal Government has reaffirmed that 16 years remains the minimum age requirement for admission into tertiary institutions across Nigeria.
The Minister of Education, Tunji Alausa, made this known on Monday during the 2026 policy meeting on tertiary institution admissions held in Abuja.
According to the minister, the policy followed extensive consultations and reviews involving key stakeholders in the education sector.
Alausa explained that the decision was aimed at maintaining a balance between inclusiveness and academic preparedness among students seeking higher education admission.
He noted that although the government acknowledges the existence of exceptionally gifted children, such cases must be handled under clearly defined and strictly enforced guidelines to protect the integrity of the education system.
“Following extensive consultations and policy reviews, the government has retained sixteen years as the minimum age for admission into tertiary institutions,” he stated.
The minister also warned institutions against conducting admissions outside the Central Admissions Processing System (CAPS) managed by the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB), stressing that such admissions remain illegal and invalid.
He cautioned that institutions found violating the approved admission process could face severe sanctions, including the suspension of operating licences.
Alausa stressed that the integrity of the admission process remains critical to the credibility of tertiary institutions in the country.
He further stated that the government would continue to enforce strict compliance with admission policies to restore order and public confidence in the system.
On digital reforms, the minister disclosed that the government is intensifying efforts toward full digitalisation of the education sector in line with global best practices.
According to him, computer-based testing and digital competence have become unavoidable realities in modern education systems.
He also revealed that the Federal Government is strengthening measures against examination malpractice through improved verification systems and tighter supervision mechanisms.