Nigeria’s Minister of Education, Dr. Tunji Alausa, has announced a major policy shift: the minimum age for university admissions has been reduced from 18 to 16. The Federal Ministry of Education shared the update on X (formerly Twitter), stating, “FG reverts tertiary admission age to 16! Dr. Tunji Alausa announces the reversal, citing provisions for gifted students & focus on quality education.”
This adjustment allows academically qualified students to apply for universities and other higher institutions at 16, supporting the educational advancement of younger, gifted students. Dr. Alausa made the announcement during his inaugural press briefing in Abuja, explaining that the previous age requirement of 18, part of Nigeria’s National Policy on Education, will no longer be enforced.
This policy change underscores the government’s commitment to accommodating the diverse needs of Nigeria’s youth, opening up opportunities for accelerated learners to enter higher education earlier.
