Court Intervenes in Age Policy Debate
The Delta State High Court in Warri has issued an order preventing the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) from enforcing its recent age restriction, which mandates candidates to be at least 16 years old to gain university admission. This decision provides temporary relief to affected students while the court considers the case filed against JAMB, which has drawn wide public interest.
Background on JAMB’s Age Restriction
Earlier in October, JAMB announced that starting in the 2025 academic year, candidates must reach the age of 16 by August to qualify for admission into Nigerian universities. This policy, backed by the Ministry of Education’s recommendation, aimed to align Nigeria’s university admissions process with global standards. However, JAMB allowed a grace period for students applying for the 2024/2025 session, resulting in mixed reactions from the public and educational stakeholders.
Legal Challenge Led by Prominent Lawyer
John Aikpokpo-Martins, former chairman of the Nigerian Bar Association’s Warri branch, challenged the age restriction in court, representing candidates affected by the policy, including students born between September and December 2009 who successfully passed their JAMB exams. Aikpokpo-Martins argued that these young candidates’ hard-earned success should not be dismissed due to age constraints.
Court Grants Interim Relief for Students
On Thursday, Justice Anthony Akpovi granted Aikpokpo-Martins’ requests for interim relief. The court’s ruling halts JAMB from enforcing its age restriction and allows affected students, such as Angel Aikpokpo Martins, to retain their admissions and continue accessing academic resources pending a final ruling. The court emphasised that students admitted under the previous policy should not be disadvantaged by the new age requirement.
Government’s Stance on Underage Candidates
In an earlier decision, the federal government announced a ban on underage candidates sitting for WAEC and NECO examinations, essential for university entry. This sparked public concern, prompting the Minister of State for Education, Yussuf Sununu, to suggest exceptions for “exceptional” underage students. While Sununu did not fully clarify if this ban was rescinded, the policy continues to stir debate over fair access to education.
Public Awaits Final Court Decision
With the court now involved, the debate surrounding age restrictions for university admissions has intensified. Many Nigerians, especially parents and educators, await the final decision, hoping for a policy that considers students’ rights and educational needs. Justice Akpovi’s ruling has brought temporary relief, but the question of age restrictions remains open, pending further court deliberation.
Follow us on Socials:
Facebook
Twitter