Court declares JAMB minimum age unconstitutional.

As the 2025 JAMB examination approaches, recent developments have sparked major discussions in Nigeria’s education sector. From a court ruling nullifying JAMB’s minimum age restriction to philanthropic efforts helping underprivileged students register for the exam, candidates and stakeholders are closely monitoring these updates.

The court’s decision declaring JAMB’s 16-year age limit unconstitutional has opened new opportunities for younger students, while JAMB’s immediate appeal against the ruling signals an ongoing legal battle. Additionally, initiatives by the Awani Foundation and Hon. Nicholas Mutu have provided financial support to indigent students, ensuring they can sit for this crucial university entrance exam.

This article covers the latest JAMB news as of March 1, 2025, analyzing how these updates will impact students preparing for the upcoming UTME.

Court Declares JAMB’s Minimum Admission Age Unconstitutional

In a landmark ruling, the Delta State High Court in Warri has declared that the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB)’s policy of setting 16 years as the minimum age for university admission is unconstitutional. This verdict challenges a long-standing regulation that has prevented younger candidates from enrolling in tertiary institutions despite meeting academic requirements.

The Legal Battle Against JAMB’s Age Restriction

The lawsuit was filed by John Aikpokpo-Martins, a former chairman of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), Warri branch. He argued that JAMB’s minimum age policy violated Sections 18(1) and 42 of the 1999 Constitution of Nigeria, which guarantee the right to education and freedom from discrimination.

According to Aikpokpo-Martins, the policy unfairly prevents qualified candidates under 16 from securing admission, even when they meet the necessary academic qualifications. He maintained that age should not be a barrier for students who have demonstrated the capability to handle tertiary education.

Court’s Verdict and Rationale

Delivering the ruling on February 27, 2025, Justice Anthony O. Akpovi sided with the claimant, stating that JAMB’s regulation contradicts constitutional provisions.

During the proceedings, JAMB’s legal counsel, A.O. Mohammed, SAN, argued that the court had no jurisdiction over the matter, claiming that Section 18(1) of the Constitution was non-justiciable since it falls under Chapter 2. However, Aikpokpo-Martins countered that when read alongside Section 42, which guarantees freedom from discrimination, the provision becomes enforceable.

What This Means for JAMB Candidates

With this judgment, JAMB can no longer deny university admission to candidates based on age. This means younger students who meet the academic requirements can now register and sit for the JAMB examination without restrictions.

Previously, only candidates aged 16 and above were allowed to apply for JAMB and secure admission into Nigerian universities. However, this ruling effectively removes age as a criterion, shifting the focus to academic capability and merit.