The announcement was made on Monday by the Minister of Education, Tunji Alausa, during the 2026 Policy Meeting on Admissions to Tertiary Institutions held in Abuja.

According to the minister, the decision came after a series of consultations and policy evaluations involving major stakeholders in the education sector.

Alausa explained that the government’s position is intended to maintain a balance between giving students fair opportunities and ensuring they possess the required academic and emotional maturity for tertiary education.

He stated that although some exceptionally intelligent students may meet admission standards before the age of 16, such situations would only be considered under carefully monitored conditions and strict regulations.

The minister noted that the policy is designed to protect the credibility of Nigeria’s admission system and ensure that underage admissions do not affect students’ preparedness for higher education.

He also announced new policy adjustments affecting certain courses, particularly programmes related to Education and Agriculture, where candidates may now enjoy more flexible admission considerations under the updated framework.

The meeting also featured discussions on major admission issues, including institutional quotas, admission procedures and cut-off marks for the 2026 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination.