Nigeria’s Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board has withheld the scores of candidates who sat for the 2026 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination, citing irregularities linked to underage applicants. Officials announced that a benchmark of 320 has been set for those below the approved age, effectively disqualifying many from immediate admission. The move is part of efforts to enforce age compliance and maintain standards in the country’s tertiary education system.
Parents and students have expressed frustration, arguing that the policy punishes candidates who performed well academically but fall short of the age requirement. “My child worked hard and passed, yet the score is being withheld simply because of age. It feels unfair,” said a parent in Abuja. Others, however, supported the decision, noting that maturity is essential for coping with university life and academic pressures.
Education advocates say the measure highlights broader challenges in Nigeria’s admission process, including inconsistencies in age documentation and pressure on young students to advance too quickly. They urged JAMB to improve transparency and provide clear guidance to families, while also calling for reforms that balance academic achievement with developmental readiness. The board has promised to review withheld results carefully and ensure that only eligible candidates are considered for placement.
