No Change in Admission Age for JSS1, Says Education Ministry

The Federal Ministry of Education has categorically dismissed circulating rumors suggesting a new minimum age of 12 years for admission into Junior Secondary School 1 (JSS1). In an official statement signed by Director of Press and Public Relations, Boriowo Folasade, the ministry clarified that the minimum age for JSS1 entry remains 10 years. The government emphasized that no child should complete primary school before reaching this age, and any claims to the contrary are unfounded and misleading.

“The minimum age for admission into JSS1 remains 10 years. Any suggestion to the contrary is misleading and should be disregarded by the public and all education stakeholders,” the statement reads.

Additionally, the ministry reaffirmed that the minimum age for university admission in Nigeria is still 16 years. This policy, according to the Minister of Education, Dr. Maruf Tunji Alausa, is consistent and non-negotiable, ensuring students’ readiness—both cognitively and emotionally—for higher education.

The ministry urges educational institutions, parents, and the public to verify information through official channels and avoid acting on unsubstantiated reports. All policies, it stated, are designed in line with Nigeria’s Renewed Hope Agenda to ensure the developmental appropriateness of education in the country.

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