Abuja — The Federal Ministry of Education has firmly refuted claims made in a recent publication by The Punch Newspaper alleging that the Federal Government has introduced a new minimum age of 12 years for admission into Junior Secondary School 1 (JSS1).

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In a press release issued on Friday, July 25, 2025, and signed by Mrs. Boriowo Folasade, Director of Press and Public Relations, the Ministry categorically described the report as “false and misleading,” clarifying that it did not originate from any official source and does not reflect government policy.

 

“For the avoidance of doubt,” the statement read, “the minimum age for admission into JSS1 remains 10 years. Accordingly, no child should complete primary education below the age of 10. Any suggestion to the contrary is misleading and should be disregarded by the public and all education stakeholders.”

 

The Ministry emphasized that this policy remains unchanged and advised the public to be wary of misinformation that could cause confusion within the education sector.

 

In addition, the Honourable Minister of Education, Dr. Maruf Tunji Alausa, reaffirmed that the minimum age for university admission remains 16 years. This policy is consistent, non-negotiable, and applies to all candidates, regardless of how early they complete secondary education.

 

According to the Ministry, the minimum age benchmarks are in place to ensure students possess the cognitive and emotional readiness required for their respective academic levels.

 

The Federal Ministry of Education also urged the public, educational institutions, and media organisations to verify facts through official channels before acting on or publishing any education-related information. The Ministry reiterated its commitment to transparency and developmental appropriateness in policy implementation, in line with the goals of the Renewed Hope Agenda.

 

 

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✅ Fact Check Summary

 

Claim: FG has set a new minimum age of 12 years for JSS1 admission.

 

Verdict: ❌ False – The official minimum age remains 10 years.

 

Claim: The age for university admission is now flexible.

 

Verdict: ❌ False – The prescribed minimum age remains 16 years, and it is non-negotiable.