Exclusive: JAMB’s 16-Year Minimum Admission Age Declared Unconstitutional

Exclusive: JAMB’s 16-Year Minimum Admission Age Declared Unconstitutional

In a landmark ruling, the Delta State High Court 2 in Warri declared the 16-year minimum age requirement for university admissions set by the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) unconstitutional……..READ MORE 

Justice Anthony O. Akpovi, presiding over the case, ruled in favor of the claimant, John Aikpokpo-Martins, in Suit No: W/311/FHR/2024, but denied his request for damages.

Aikpokpo-Martins, who brought the case as a public interest matter, argued that the age restriction violated constitutional rights to equal educational opportunities and freedom from discrimination, as outlined in sections 18(1) and 42 of Nigeria’s 1999 Constitution. The court sided with him, effectively lifting the age restriction, which means that any candidate who meets the admission criteria can now apply for university admission regardless of age.

JAMB’s legal team had contended that the court lacked jurisdiction, arguing that Section 18(1) of the Constitution on equal educational opportunities is non-justiciable, but the court rejected this argument, citing the enforceability of Section 42’s anti-discrimination provisions. As a result, candidates no longer need to meet a specific age requirement to purchase JAMB forms and pursue university education.

The ruling marks a significant shift in university admission policies, ensuring that all eligible candidates, regardless of age, have the opportunity to advance their academic careers.