Abuja, Nigeria — October 16, 2025
The Federal Government of Nigeria has announced a partial relaxation of JAMB requirements for admissions in Nigeria’s tertiary system. In a major reform to widen access to higher education and simplify entry into tertiary institutions, new guidelines have been introduced.
Students may now be admitted into selected programs using only their Senior Secondary Certificate Examination (SSCE) results, without sitting for the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) exam.
Officials explained that the reform aims to reduce barriers and create flexible admission options for students in specific categories.
New Policy Targets ND, HND, and College Programs
According to the Ministry of Education, the directive affects non-degree programs such as National Diploma (ND) and Higher National Diploma (HND) courses in polytechnics, as well as internal programs in colleges of education.
The policy, introduced under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Minister of Education, Dr. Maruf Tunji Alausa, grants institutions more autonomy in their admission processes.
In addition, the Ministry announced that Mathematics will no longer be compulsory for applicants to Arts and Humanities programs. However, it remains a requirement for Science, Technology, and Social Science courses.
Education analysts have praised the reform as a step toward inclusiveness and academic freedom. Still, others urge careful implementation to avoid compromising standards.
JAMB Clarifies Its Role
In response to widespread speculation, JAMB reaffirmed that it remains the official examination body for university, polytechnic, and college admissions in Nigeria.
In a statement by its Director of Public Affairs, Dr. Fabian Benjamin, JAMB dismissed reports suggesting its relevance had been removed.
“The Minister of Education has not made any declaration removing JAMB as a prerequisite for admission. JAMB continues to perform its statutory responsibilities as mandated by law,” the board stated.
The new framework allows institutions to select qualified candidates directly for certain courses but under JAMB’s supervision. Students are therefore advised to continue preparing for the exam and to understand the adjusted JAMB requirements for admissions to avoid misinformation.
For earlier education policy updates, visit Jungle-Journalist.com.
Further details on Nigeria’s tertiary reforms can be found at BBC Education Africa.
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