Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has condemned the Federal Ministry of Education’s new policy imposing age limits for entry into tertiary institutions, calling it absurd.
The policy, announced by Education Minister Prof. Tahir Mamman on Channels Television’s Sunday Politics, mandates that individuals under 18 years old will be barred from participating in National Examinations Council (NECO) and West African Examinations Council (WAEC) exams.
Mamman stated that WAEC and NECO have been directed to enforce this 18-year age requirement for exam candidates.
In a response posted on X, Atiku criticized the policy as outdated and detrimental to educational progress in Nigeria.
He argued that the policy represents a regressive step for the country’s educational system and reflects poorly on the current government’s approach to education.
Atiku’s statement read, “Tinubu’s policy on age limits for tertiary education admission belongs in the Stone Ages. This policy is an absurdity and a disincentive to scholarship.
It contradicts the principles of federalism and highlights the government’s lack of direction.”
He further noted that the Nigerian constitution allows sub-national governments more authority over education matters, making the federal government’s decree-like action unconstitutional.
Atiku also criticized the government’s failure to address the needs of exceptionally gifted students, deeming it an embarrassment to Nigeria’s intellectual community.
“The best global practices involve allowing regional governments to establish education policies,” Atiku added. “This controversial policy should be universally condemned by anyone who values intellectual freedom and accessibility.”