ABUJA — The Federal Government has approved an exemption that allows candidates with at least four credit passes to enter the National Certificate in Education (NCE) programme without sitting for the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME). The 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 said the decision follows extensive consultations with stakeholders and is aimed at widening access to teacher‑training programmes and bolstering enrolment in Colleges of Education (CoE) across the country. “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,” he stated.
The exemption does not remove the requirement 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 line with existing regulations. The minister confirmed that the same waiver will also apply to candidates applying for National Diploma programmes in non‑technology agricultural and agriculture‑related courses.
Alausa warned that any institution that conducts admissions outside CAPS will be acting illegally and will not be recognised by the government. He added that schools that flout the established procedures could face sanctions, including the suspension of operating licences.
The announcement comes as the ministry pursues a broader reform agenda targeting access, quality, governance and accountability in the education sector. Among the reforms highlighted were the ongoing digital transformation of education, expansion of computer‑based testing, and integration of artificial intelligence and emerging technologies into curricula. The government also reported progress in stabilising the university system after renegotiating agreements that 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 deploying 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 remove barriers to participation. “When barriers are removed, potential is unleashed,” he said, describing the 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, recognising institutions and individuals who have demonstrated excellence in tertiary admissions.
The exemption is expected to reduce pressure on the UTME, increase enrollment in critical teacher‑training and agricultural programmes, and ultimately expand higher‑education opportunities for millions of Nigerian youths.
