Juliet Ezeh
In a major policy shift set to impact thousands of Nigerian students, the Federal Government has announced that candidates seeking admission into the Nigeria Certificate in Education (NCE) programme will no longer be required to sit for the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME).
The decision, unveiled by the Minister of Education, Dr. Maruf Tunji Alausa, during the 2026 Policy Meeting on Admissions held in Abuja on Monday, is already generating widespread reactions across the education sector.
Under the new directive, candidates who possess a minimum of four credit passes in relevant subjects will now be eligible to apply for NCE programmes without going through the often stressful UTME process. However, the minister clarified that such candidates must still register with the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB), where their credentials will be screened, verified, and processed through the Central Admission Processing System (CAPS).
This move is part of broader reforms aimed at improving access to education and strengthening teacher training institutions across the country.
A Major Shift in Admission Policy
For years, UTME has been a compulsory requirement for admission into tertiary institutions in Nigeria, including colleges of education. The removal of this requirement for NCE applicants marks a significant departure from the traditional system.
According to the minister, the policy is designed to reduce the burden on prospective students while also encouraging more young Nigerians to consider careers in teaching.
He explained that the government is focused on maximizing the admission capacity of colleges of education, particularly those located in underserved and rural communities where there is a growing need for qualified teachers.
“This reform is about access, inclusion, and national development,” the minister stated. “We want more students to enroll in colleges of education without unnecessary barriers.”
Extension to Agricultural Programmes
In addition to NCE programmes, the exemption from UTME will also apply to candidates seeking admission into National Diploma (ND) programmes in non-technology agricultural and agriculture-related courses.
The minister emphasized that this aspect of the policy is aimed at boosting enrollment in critical sectors that are essential for Nigeria’s economic growth and food security.
Agriculture remains a key pillar of the nation’s economy, yet interest among young people has declined in recent years. By removing UTME as a barrier, the government hopes to attract more students into agriculture and related fields.
CAPS Remains Mandatory
Despite the removal of UTME for these categories of students, the government has maintained strict adherence to the Central Admission Processing System.
The minister warned that all admissions must be processed through CAPS, stressing that any admission conducted outside the platform would be considered illegal and invalid.
“CAPS remains the only legitimate channel for admission processing,” he said. “Institutions must comply fully with this directive.”
He further warned that institutions found violating the established procedures could face severe sanctions, including the suspension of their operating licences.
Minimum Admission Age Retained
The Federal Government also reaffirmed its position on the minimum age for admission into tertiary institutions, maintaining that candidates must be at least 16 years old.
According to the minister, the age requirement is intended to ensure that students are academically and emotionally prepared for the demands of higher education.
“This policy is about readiness and inclusivity,” he noted. “We want students to succeed, not struggle due to premature entry.”
Push for Inclusivity and Equal Opportunity
As part of its ongoing reforms, the government is also expanding access to education for persons living with disabilities.
The minister disclosed that initiatives such as application fee waivers and targeted support programmes are being implemented to ensure that no student is left behind.
He highlighted the increasing participation of candidates with disabilities in national examinations, noting that removing barriers has proven effective in unlocking human potential.
“Our goal is to create an education system where everyone has a fair chance,” he said.
Digital Transformation in Education
The policy announcement also highlighted the government’s commitment to modernizing Nigeria’s education system through technology.
Efforts are underway to expand computer-based testing and integrate artificial intelligence and other emerging technologies into the curriculum.
The minister noted that these innovations are essential for preparing Nigerian students to compete in a rapidly evolving global landscape.
“Digital transformation is no longer optional; it is necessary,” he stated.
Stability in the University System
In addition to admission reforms, the government has made progress in stabilizing the university system.
The minister revealed that recent renegotiations of agreements with relevant stakeholders have helped ensure more consistent academic calendars, reducing disruptions that have plagued the system in the past.
This development is expected to restore confidence among students and parents who have long been concerned about prolonged academic delays.
Crackdown on Examination Malpractice
The Federal Government also reiterated its commitment to tackling examination malpractice.
The minister said that strengthened verification systems and improved collaboration among agencies are being deployed to safeguard the integrity of the admission process.
He urged all stakeholders, including institutions, candidates, and examination bodies, to uphold transparency and fairness.
“Integrity must remain the foundation of our education system,” he said.
Stakeholders React
While the announcement has been widely welcomed by many students and education stakeholders, some experts have called for careful implementation to ensure that standards are not compromised.
For many prospective NCE students, however, the policy brings a sense of relief and renewed hope.
“I have always wanted to study education, but UTME was a major challenge for me,” said a student in Abuja. “This new policy gives people like me a second chance.”
Parents and guardians have also expressed optimism, noting that the removal of UTME for NCE could reduce financial and emotional stress.
A Policy That Could Reshape Education
Education analysts believe that the new policy could significantly boost enrollment in colleges of education, which have struggled in recent years to attract students.
By simplifying the admission process, the government is not only addressing immediate challenges but also investing in the future of the teaching profession.
The success of the policy, however, will depend largely on effective implementation and continuous monitoring.
Looking Ahead
As Nigeria continues to reform its education sector, the removal of UTME for NCE admission stands out as a bold and transformative step.
With millions of young Nigerians seeking opportunities for higher education, policies like this could play a crucial role in expanding access and shaping the nation’s future.
The minister emphasized that the outcome of the policy meeting would have far-reaching implications, urging all stakeholders to work together in ensuring its success.
“This is about the future of our youth and the development of our nation,” he said.
As the new policy takes effect, many will be watching closely to see how it reshapes the education landscape and opens new doors for aspiring students across the country.