Abuja: The Federal Government has approved the exemption of candidates seeking admission into the National Certificate in Education (NCE) programme with a minimum of four credits from sitting for the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME). The Minister of Education, Dr. Tunji Alausa, announced this policy during the 2026 Policy Meeting on Admissions into Tertiary Institutions organized by the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB).
According to News Agency of Nigeria, the announcement was made at an event that also featured the 6th Edition of the National Tertiary Admissions Performance-Merit (NATAP-M) awards. Dr. Alausa noted that the decision followed consultations with stakeholders to expand access to teacher education and strengthen enrollment in Colleges of Education nationwide. He emphasized that eligible candidates would still be required to register with JAMB for proper screening, verification, and the issuance of admission letters through the Central Admissions Processing System (CAPS).
The exemption is part of deliberate reforms aimed at harnessing the admission capacity of colleges of education, particularly within local communities. Dr. Alausa stated, “In recognition of this reality, the Federal Ministry of Education, in consultation with relevant stakeholders, has taken a deliberate policy position. Accordingly, candidates seeking admission into the NCE programme, who possess a minimum of four credit passes, will no longer be required to sit for the UTME.”
The minister added that the exemption would also apply to candidates seeking admission into National Diploma programmes in non-technology agricultural and agriculture-related courses. This measure is designed to ease the pressure associated with UTME while encouraging participation in critical sectors essential to national development. He reiterated that admissions conducted outside CAPS remained illegal and would not be recognized by the government.
Dr. Alausa also warned that institutions violating established admission procedures risked sanctions, including the suspension of operating licenses where applicable. He reaffirmed the government’s position on 16 years as the minimum admission age into tertiary institutions, aiming to maintain inclusivity and academic readiness. The federal government is implementing wide-ranging reforms in the education sector focused on access, quality, governance, and accountability.
Commending JAMB for deploying technology-driven solutions, Dr. Alausa highlighted efforts to enhance fairness and credibility in the admissions process. He noted ongoing initiatives to deepen inclusion for Persons living With Disabilities through application fee waivers and targeted support initiatives. “This initiative is not only humane but also a powerful affirmation of our national commitment to equity and equal opportunity,” he said.
The minister further disclosed that the government was advancing digital transformation in education through expanded computer-based testing and the integration of artificial intelligence and emerging technologies into curricula. Progress has been achieved in stabilizing the university system, following successful renegotiation of agreements aimed at ensuring uninterrupted academic calendars. Dr. Alausa reaffirmed the government’s commitment to combating examination malpractice through strengthened verification systems and enhanced collaboration among relevant agencies.
He urged stakeholders to uphold integrity and fairness in admissions decisions, noting that the outcomes of the policy meeting would affect millions of Nigerian youths seeking tertiary education opportunities.