Education Minister Dr. Tunji Alausa has officially overturned the 18-year age requirement for university admissions, set earlier this year.
Speaking at a press conference in Abuja, Alausa announced that younger students, starting at age 16, will now be eligible to enter tertiary institutions, reversing the decision of his predecessor, Professor Tahir Mamman.
The original policy, introduced in July, aimed to address concerns about the preparedness of younger students and the integrity of tertiary institutions. However, strong opposition from education stakeholders and protests at the policy’s announcement led to calls for review.
While the age limit has been adjusted, Alausa clarified that the government remains firm in its decision to annul over 22,700 degrees obtained by Nigerians from unaccredited institutions in neighboring countries, notably in Togo and Benin.
The announcement signals Alausa’s intent to overhaul certain policies to strengthen the nation’s educational standards while accommodating the needs of qualified young learners.
Education Minister Reverses 18-Year Age Limit for University Admissions
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