ABUJA — The Federal Government has approved an exemption allowing candidates with at least four credit passes to enter the National Certificate in Education (NCE) programme without taking the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME). This policy was announced on Monday by Education Minister Dr. Tunji Alausa during the 2026 Policy Meeting on Admissions into Tertiary Institutions, convened by the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) in the capital.
Minister Alausa explained that this decision follows extensive consultations with stakeholders and aims to widen access to teacher-training programmes while bolstering enrolment in Colleges of Education (CoE) across the country. He stated, “In recognition of the need to expand capacity, the Ministry of Education, together with relevant partners, has adopted a policy whereby candidates seeking admission into the NCE programme who have a minimum of four credit passes will no longer be required to sit for the UTME.” However, it is important to note that this exemption does not eliminate the requirement for candidates to register with JAMB. All eligible applicants must still go through JAMB’s Central Admissions Processing System (CAPS) for screening, verification, and the issuance of admission letters, in accordance with existing regulations.
The minister also confirmed that the same waiver will apply to candidates applying for National Diploma programmes in non-technology agricultural and agriculture-related courses. He cautioned that any institution conducting admissions outside of CAPS would be acting illegally and would not be recognized by the government. Furthermore, schools that violate the established procedures could face sanctions, including the suspension of their operating licenses.
This announcement is part of a broader reform agenda aimed at improving access, quality, governance, and accountability in the education sector. Among the highlighted reforms are the ongoing digital transformation of education, the expansion of computer-based testing, and the integration of artificial intelligence and emerging technologies into curricula. The government has also reported progress in stabilizing the university system after renegotiating agreements to ensure uninterrupted academic calendars.
In a separate note, the minister reiterated the long-standing minimum admission age of 16 for tertiary institutions, emphasizing that the new policy seeks to maintain inclusivity while ensuring academic readiness. He praised JAMB for implementing technology-driven solutions that enhance fairness and credibility in the admission process. Addressing the needs of persons living with disabilities, Alausa announced fee waivers and targeted support initiatives to eliminate barriers to participation. “When barriers are removed, potential is unleashed,” he remarked, describing these measures as both humane and a testament to Nigeria’s commitment to equity and equal opportunity.
The 2026 Policy Meeting also featured the sixth edition of the National Tertiary Admissions Performance-Merit (NATAP-M) awards, which recognize institutions and individuals who have demonstrated excellence in tertiary admissions. The exemption is expected to alleviate pressure on the UTME, increase enrollment in critical teacher-training and agricultural programmes, and ultimately expand higher education opportunities for millions of Nigerian youths.
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