The Federal Government has issued a firm directive declaring all admissions conducted outside the Central Admissions Processing System (CAPS) illegal, warning that institutions violating the policy will face strict sanctions.
Minister of Education, Maruf Alausa, delivered the warning on Monday during the 2026 Policy Meeting on Admissions to Tertiary Institutions held in Abuja.
He stressed that the integrity of Nigeria’s admission framework must be preserved, noting that parallel admission processes undermine fairness and deny deserving candidates equal opportunity.
Alausa stated unequivocally that admissions conducted outside CAPS would not be recognised, adding that institutions operating such systems risk severe penalties, including regulatory action and possible suspension of operating licences.
According to him, the era of unregulated admissions must end, as the government intensifies efforts to restore credibility and transparency
in the tertiary education system.He emphasised that enforcement would be consistent and decisive, though not intended to be punitive, but rather to ensure order and accountability across both public and private institutions.
The minister also confirmed that the minimum age for admission into tertiary institutions remains 16 years, following extensive consultations and policy reviews. He explained that while exceptions may exist for exceptionally gifted candidates, such cases would be strictly regulated.
Alausa further commended the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board for initiatives aimed at improving access for persons with disabilities, including fee waivers, describing the move as a significant step towards inclusivity and equal opportunity.
Highlighting ongoing reforms, he referenced the implementation of the Nigerian Education Loan Fund, an interest-free scheme designed to remove financial barriers and expand access to higher education for Nigerian students.
