The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) announced the new policy during its meeting in Abuja.
The Federal Government has fixed the minimum admission age at 16 years and raised the university entry cut-off mark to 150 for the 2025/2026 academic session, sparking protests from institutions demanding autonomy.
The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) announced the new policy during its meeting in Abuja.
Education Minister Dr Tunji Alausa said: “This policy decision reflects a balance between cognitive maturity and academic preparedness. 16 years is non-negotiable.”
Critics argue the move lowers standards. “We regret to say the Nigerian education system is falling,” said Okezie Aloy, Rector, Abia College of Health Sciences.
JAMB Registrar Prof. Ishaq Oloyede warned against illegal admissions outside the Central Admission Processing System, threatening sanctions.
Meanwhile, JAMB revealed suspicions of malpractice in the results of top scorer Chinedu Okeke, citing evidence of double matriculation.
LASU, UNILAG, and UNILORIN emerged as the most preferred institutions for first-choice applicants.