Candidates under 18 will no longer take WAEC, NECO exams — FG

The Federal Government has announced a strict enforcement of the 18-year age limit for candidates taking the West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE) and the Senior School Certificate Examination (SSCE) conducted by WAEC and NECO. Education Minister Prof. Tahir Mamman revealed this during an interview on Channels Television’s ‘Sunday Politics,’ clarifying that underage candidates will no longer be allowed to sit for these crucial exams.

Prof. Mamman emphasized that this is not a new policy but a reinforcement of existing regulations, aiming to ensure students are of the appropriate age before completing secondary education. The minister also noted that from next year, the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) will strictly enforce the 18-year age requirement for university admissions.

The decision serves as a warning to parents and schools, highlighting the importance of adhering to the prescribed educational timelines. Moving forward, both WAEC and NECO will deny underage students access to these examinations, marking a significant shift in the administration of Nigeria’s secondary school leaving exams.