FG Denies Raising JSS 1 Admission Age to 12

The Federal Government has debunked claims that it raised the minimum age for admission into Junior Secondary School 1 (JSS1) from 10 to 12 years.

In a statement issued on Saturday, the Minister of Education, Dr. Tunji Alausa, described the report — initially published by Punch Newspaper — as false, misleading, and not reflective of official government policy.

“The Federal Ministry of Education wishes to categorically state that this report is entirely inaccurate, did not emanate from any official source, and does not reflect government policy,” the statement read.

Alausa reaffirmed that the minimum age for JSS1 remains 10 years, and warned that no child should complete primary education before that age. He further emphasized that the age requirement for university admission remains 16 years, in line with national policy.

“This benchmark ensures students are cognitively and emotionally prepared for higher education,” he added.

The Minister called on media organisations, schools, and the public to verify information through official government sources before publishing or acting on it. He also reiterated the Ministry’s commitment to transparency and age-appropriate learning as part of the Renewed Hope Agenda.