Court halts JAMB’s age restriction for university admissions
The Delta State High Court in Warri has issued an order temporarily halting the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) from implementing its policy requiring a minimum age of 16 for university admissions. The policy, set to begin with candidates turning 16 by August 2025, followed a Ministry of Education directive recommending that students entering tertiary institutions should be at least 18.
The legal challenge was brought by John Aikpokpo-Martins, a former Nigerian Bar Association chairman from Warri, who argued on behalf of younger students impacted by the new age limit. Representing candidates born between September 1 and December 31, 2009, who successfully passed the JAMB exams in 2024, Aikpokpo-Martins contended that the restriction infringes on their right to education. The case also included Edwin Clark University as a respondent, as some affected students had already received admission offers there.
READ ALSO: JAMB sets new admission policy for 16-year-old candidates
Justice Anthony Akpovi granted the applicant’s request to temporarily suspend the age limit policy, thereby preserving the admission status of all eligible candidates under 16 pending further court hearings. In the ruling, the judge stated, “Reliefs 1 and 2 are hereby granted to preserve and protect the applicants’ rights to remain duly admitted as per the admission list prior to JAMB’s circular dated October 16, 2024.” He further directed an accelerated hearing for the originating motion, ensuring a timely resolution of the case.
Follow the Neptune Prime channel on WhatsApp:
Do you have breaking news, interview request, opinion, suggestion, or want your event covered? Email us at neptuneprime2233@gmail.com
