Nigerian Senate Confirms Minimum Age for University Admission Remains 16

The Nigerian Senate has reaffirmed that the 16-year requirement for admission into tertiary institutions remains unchanged.

Chairman of the Senate Committee on Media and Public Affairs, Adeyemi Adaramodu, dismissed rumors of a possible increase to 18 years, clarifying that such speculations are merely personal opinions of some senators.

Adaramodu emphasized that any alteration to existing laws must undergo the legislative process to become valid.

This clarification comes after the Minister of Education, Prof. Tahir Mamman, proposed raising the admission age from 16 to 18 years, citing concerns about the maturity level of younger students.

While some members of the Senate Committee on Tertiary Institutions expressed support for the government’s proposal, the Senate Spokesman highlighted that discussions on minimum age requirements are not legally binding until passed as laws through proper procedures.

He emphasized the importance of public hearings involving various stakeholders before any decision is made.

Additionally, he debunked rumors that the Minister of Education had instructed the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board to withhold results of applicants below 18 years, stating that such conditions were not part of the initial agreement.

He reiterated the necessity of legislative processes in implementing any changes, underscoring the democratic nature of decision-making in Nigeria.