FG Debunks Report on New Minimum Age Requirement for JSS1, University Admission

The Federal Government has dismissed a circulating report claiming that a new minimum age of 12 years has been set for admission into Junior Secondary School 1 (JSS1).

In a statement issued by Boriowo Folasade, Director of Press and Public Relations at the Federal Ministry of Education, the government clarified that the report is false, did not originate from any official source, and does not reflect its policy.

The ministry reaffirmed that the minimum age for entry into JSS1 remains 10 years, emphasizing that no child should complete primary education before reaching that age. It described any suggestion to the contrary as misleading and urged the public and education stakeholders to disregard such claims.

“The Federal Ministry of Education has noted with concern a false and misleading newspaper publication alleging that the Federal Government has approved 12 years as the new minimum age for JSS1 admission. We categorically state that the report is inaccurate and not grounded in any official directive,” the statement read.

Additionally, the Minister of Education, Dr. Maruf Tunji Alausa, reiterated that the minimum age for university admission in Nigeria remains 16 years. This policy, he said, is firm and applies to all candidates, regardless of how early they may have completed secondary education, as it ensures students are mentally and emotionally prepared for higher education.

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The ministry called on the public, schools, and media outlets to verify any such claims through official sources before acting or publishing, reaffirming its commitment to transparency and age-appropriate educational policies in line with the Renewed Hope Agenda.