The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) has announced that 85 underage candidates have successfully completed its rigorous screening process for exceptional admission into tertiary institutions across Nigeria.
In a statement released on Monday by its spokesman, Dr. Fabian Benjamin, the board said the candidates, all below the official minimum admission age of 16, were considered after demonstrating outstanding academic ability and maturity during a specially designed evaluation exercise.
According to JAMB, the decision aligns with the board’s policy of encouraging academic excellence while maintaining integrity and fairness in the admission process. “After a thorough screening and verification exercise, 85 underage candidates were found to possess the intellectual capacity and emotional readiness to thrive in higher education environments,” the statement read.
The board explained that the evaluation included interviews, background checks, and recommendations from secondary school authorities. Only candidates who met strict academic and psychological criteria were approved for admission into selected universities, polytechnics, and colleges of education.
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Dr. Benjamin emphasized that the board remains committed to upholding the 16-year age benchmark for university admission, noting that this exceptional clearance applies strictly to rare cases involving gifted students. “We do not encourage underage admissions. However, where clear evidence of exceptional ability is established, the board may exercise discretion in line with global best practices,” he said.
The announcement comes amid ongoing debate about the appropriate age for tertiary education in Nigeria, with some educationists arguing that intellectual readiness should sometimes override age restrictions. Others, however, maintain that emotional maturity and social development must remain critical considerations.
JAMB noted that the 85 candidates cleared under the exceptional category will be placed in institutions with strong mentorship and counseling programs to support their academic and personal growth. The board also reaffirmed that such exemptions will remain rare and subject to periodic review.
Education analysts have praised JAMB’s balanced approach, describing it as a progressive step toward recognizing gifted learners without compromising academic standards.
“The board’s decision reflects a thoughtful blend of merit and regulation,” said Dr. Grace Ogunleye, an education consultant. “It ensures that talent is nurtured responsibly while maintaining the integrity of Nigeria’s higher education system.”
JAMB concluded by urging parents to respect admission policies and avoid rushing children into tertiary institutions prematurely.