ABUJA — The Federal Government has approved a new exemption that will allow candidates with at least four credit passes to enroll in 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 Abuja. The gathering also hosted the sixth edition of the National Tertiary Admissions Performance‑Merit (NATAP‑M) awards.
Minister Alausa said the decision follows extensive consultations with stakeholders and is intended to widen access to teacher training and boost enrolments in Colleges of Education across the country. While the UTME requirement will be lifted for eligible candidates, Alausa stressed that applicants must still register with JAMB. Their qualifications will be screened, verified and certified through the Central Admissions Processing System (CAPS) before admission letters are issued, in line with existing regulations.
“The Ministry, in collaboration with relevant partners, has taken a deliberate policy position: candidates seeking admission into the NCE programme who hold a minimum of four credit passes will no longer be required to sit for the UTME,” Alausa said. “They must, however, undergo the standard JAMB registration and CAPS verification process.”
The exemption will also apply to students applying for National Diploma programmes in non‑technology agricultural and agriculture‑related courses, a move aimed at reducing pressure on the UTME and encouraging participation in sectors deemed critical for national development.
Alausa warned that any institution that bypasses the CAPS system will be deemed illegal and its actions will not be recognised by the government. Institutions found violating admission procedures could face sanctions, including the suspension of operating licences where applicable.
The minister reiterated the government’s long‑standing policy that the minimum age for tertiary admission remains 16 years, a standard designed to safeguard inclusivity and academic readiness. He highlighted ongoing reforms across the education sector that target access, quality, governance and accountability.
Speaking on JAMB’s deployment of technology‑driven solutions, Alausa praised the board for enhancing fairness and credibility in the admissions process. He also announced initiatives to deepen inclusion for persons living with disabilities, including fee waivers and targeted support programmes. “Removing barriers unleashes potential,” he said, noting that increased participation of candidates with disabilities reflects the country’s commitment to equity.
In addition to the admission changes, the minister disclosed that the federal government is accelerating digital transformation in education. Efforts include expanding computer‑based testing, integrating artificial intelligence and emerging technologies into curricula, and stabilising the university system through renegotiated agreements that aim to ensure uninterrupted academic calendars.
Alausa concluded by urging all stakeholders to uphold integrity and fairness in admissions, stressing that the outcomes of the policy meeting will affect millions of Nigerian youths seeking higher‑education opportunities.
The new exemption is expected to streamline entry into teacher‑training colleges and agricultural diploma programmes, while reinforcing the role of JAMB’s CAPS system as the sole gateway for legitimate tertiary admissions in Nigeria.
