The Federal Government has reaffirmed that 16 years remains the official minimum age requirement for admission into tertiary institutions across Nigeria, stressing that the rule will continue to be strictly enforced.

The position was restated on Monday by the Minister of Education, Tunji Alausa, during the 2026 Policy Meeting on Admissions into Tertiary Institutions held in Abuja.

According to the minister, the decision follows extensive consultations with key stakeholders in the education sector and is aimed at balancing access to education with academic and emotional readiness.

Alausa explained that while the government acknowledges the existence of exceptionally gifted students who may be academically advanced at a younger age, such cases must be handled within clearly defined and strictly regulated guidelines to avoid abuse of the system.

He said:

“Following extensive consultations and policy reviews, government has maintained sixteen years as the minimum age for admission into tertiary institutions.

This position reflects a careful balance between inclusivity and academic readiness.”

The minister warned that any admission conducted outside the Central Admissions Processing System (CAPS) of the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board will be considered illegal and will not be recognised by the government.

He further cautioned that tertiary institutions found violating the approved admission process risk serious sanctions, including suspension of operating licences.

“The integrity of the admissions process is the foundation upon which the legitimacy of our institutions rests,” he said.

Alausa added that government would not tolerate shortcuts or irregular admissions, noting that enforcement would be applied without hesitation.

“Any institution found to have conducted admissions outside CAPS will be held accountable, and appropriate sanctions shall be applied without hesitation,” he stated.

He also emphasized that the policy is not intended to punish institutions, but to restore order, credibility, and transparency in Nigeria’s education system.

In addition, the minister highlighted ongoing reforms aimed at digitising education processes nationwide.

He noted that the government is pushing for full adoption of computer-based testing in national examinations as part of broader efforts to modernise learning and assessment systems.

According to him, the shift towards digital education is no longer optional but a necessary step in line with global best practices.

Alausa also revealed that stronger measures are being implemented to tackle examination malpractice, including improved verification systems and tighter supervision during exams.

As reforms continue, the government maintains that strict adherence to admission policies will remain central to safeguarding standards in Nigeria’s higher education system.