The federal government says only 108 of nearly 39,000 underage candidates who sat the 2026 UTME meet its admission screening requirements for possible entry into tertiary institutions. Reports say the result follows a multi-stage process based on exam performance and further checks tied to readiness for higher education.
Nigerian Eye and Vanguard report that Education Minister Tunji Alausa spoke in Abuja about the selection exercise, describing it as intended to ensure exceptionally gifted younger applicants are academically capable and psychologically, emotionally and intellectually prepared. Nigerian Eye adds figures for the overall UTME pool and details the funnel from those who sat the exam to those found eligible after assessments.
Legit.ng frames the same outcome as underage candidates qualifying under strict thresholds, highlighting that only 108 of the group met Nigeria’s rules after UTME, post-UTME and O’Level requirements. Vanguard’s two entries closely mirror the same account, focusing on meeting JAMB/Federal Government criteria.
