“Nigeria’s Education Is Stuck in the Past” — HURIWA Attacks FG Admission Policy

The Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA) has criticized the Federal Government over its decision to maintain 16 years as the minimum age requirement for admission into tertiary institutions, describing the policy as outdated, restrictive, and harmful to educational progress.

In a statement issued on Monday, the group argued that the policy reflects what it called an “anti-progressive mindset” within Nigeria’s education sector, insisting that academic advancement should be based on merit, intelligence, and competence rather than age.

The controversy follows remarks made by the Minister of Education, Tunji Alausa, during the 2026 Policy Meeting on Admissions to Tertiary Institutions held in Abuja, where the government reaffirmed the 16-year benchmark for university entry.

HURIWA’s National Coordinator, Emmanuel Nnadozie Onwubiko, condemned the policy, arguing that it places Nigeria at odds with modern global education systems that prioritise giftedness and intellectual capacity over rigid age limits.

According to the group, many countries actively support accelerated learning pathways for exceptionally talented students, allowing them to progress into advanced academic and research programs at an early age.

“Holding on to a fixed age benchmark in the 21st century is irrational and counterproductive,” the statement said, adding that the policy “punishes brilliance and stifles innovation.”

The rights group further compared Nigeria’s education system to outdated models, accusing authorities of maintaining “archaic educational philosophies” that no longer reflect global realities.

HURIWA also expressed concern that the Federal Government is focusing on administrative policies while deeper challenges persist in the education sector, including poor infrastructure, inadequate funding, shortage of qualified lecturers, and weak research capacity across public universities in Nigeria.

The organisation warned that without urgent reforms, the country risks producing graduates who are not competitive in global knowledge and innovation markets.

It further criticised the proliferation of universities without corresponding investments in manpower and facilities, arguing that many institutions are now functioning below acceptable academic standards.

HURIWA called on the government to immediately review the policy and adopt a more flexible, merit-based admission framework that accommodates exceptionally gifted students through proper academic assessment systems.

The group also urged authorities to prioritise reforms such as improved lecturer welfare, increased research funding, and the modernization of learning infrastructure.

“Nigeria cannot build a world-class education system using rigid and outdated policies,” the group stated, insisting that national development depends on rewarding intelligence, creativity, and innovation.

The statement was signed by Comrade Emmanuel Nnadozie Onwubiko, National Coordinator of HURIWA.