ABUJA, Nigeria (VOICE OF NAIJA)-The Minister of Education, Tunji Alausa, on Monday announced that the Federal Government has retained 16 years as the minimum age requirement for admission into tertiary institutions across Nigeria.
Alausa made the announcement during the 2026 Policy Meeting on Admissions to Tertiary Institutions held in Abuja, stating that the decision followed extensive consultations and policy reviews involving major stakeholders in the education sector.
According to him, the policy is intended to maintain a balance between academic readiness and inclusiveness within Nigeria’s tertiary education system.
“Following extensive consultations and policy reviews, the government has maintained sixteen (16) years as the minimum age for admission into tertiary institutions,” he said.
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“This position reflects a careful balance between inclusivity and academic readiness.”
The minister explained that although the government acknowledges the presence of exceptionally gifted candidates who may satisfy academic requirements before the approved age, such cases would be treated under strict regulations.
“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,” Alausa added.
He noted that the framework is designed to ensure that early admissions do not undermine the level of maturity and preparedness required for tertiary education.
Alausa also used the occasion to unveil policy adjustments affecting certain disciplines, including Education and Agriculture-related programmes, where candidates may now enjoy more flexible admission considerations under the new framework.
The announcement comes amid wider deliberations at the policy meeting, which also featured discussions on admission guidelines, institutional quotas, and cut-off marks for the 2026 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination.