The Federal Government has announced a major shift in Nigeria’s admission process, removing the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination requirement for candidates seeking entry into Colleges of Education for the Nigeria Certificate in Education programme.
The announcement was made by the Minister of Education, Maruf Tunji Alausa, during the 2026 Policy Meeting on Admissions to Tertiary Institutions organised by the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board in Abuja.
Under the new policy, candidates who possess at least four credit passes in relevant subjects can now apply directly to Colleges of Education without sitting for UTME. However, they are still required to register with JAMB, after which their credentials will be screened and processed through the Central Admissions Processing System before admission is finalised.
Alausa explained that the policy will take effect from the next admission cycle and is aimed at widening access to teacher education while tackling the growing number of out-of-school adolescents across the country. He noted that easing entry requirements would encourage more candidates to pursue careers in teaching, a sector he described as vital to national development.
The exemption also extends to candidates applying for National Diploma programmes in non-technology agricultural and agriculture-related fields, a move designed to promote interest in agriculture and reduce pressure on the UTME system.
Despite the flexibility, the minister maintained that all admissions must still be processed through JAMB’s official platform, warning that any admission conducted outside the Central Admissions Processing System would be deemed illegal. He cautioned that institutions that violate this directive risk facing sanctions, including regulatory actions against their management.
Reaffirming existing policy, the minister stated that the minimum age for admission into tertiary institutions remains 16 years.
He also commended JAMB for its efforts in promoting inclusivity, particularly through initiatives that support Persons Living with Disabilities, including the waiver of application fees.
Looking ahead, Alausa highlighted the Federal Government’s commitment to modernising Nigeria’s education system through computer-based testing, improved digital literacy, and the integration of artificial intelligence and emerging technologies into tertiary curricula to better equip students for the demands of a rapidly evolving global economy.
The policy marks a significant step in reshaping access to education in Nigeria, with stakeholders expected to closely monitor its impact on enrolment and the quality of teacher training nationwide.