The Federal Government has announced a major policy change in Nigeria’s education sector by exempting candidates seeking admission into Colleges of Education from writing the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME).
The announcement was made on Monday in Abuja during the 2026 admission policy meeting organized for the UTME exercise. The Minister of Education, Tunji Alausa, disclosed that candidates who possess at least four credit passes in relevant subjects can now apply directly into Colleges of Education without sitting for the UTME conducted by the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board.
According to the minister, the new policy is part of the federal government’s efforts to revive teacher education in Nigeria and encourage more students to pursue careers in the teaching profession. He noted that the government is concerned about the declining number of applicants into Colleges of Education across the country and believes the new measure will help boost enrollment.
Tunji Alausa explained that the decision is aimed at removing barriers that discourage many qualified candidates from applying to Colleges of Education. He added that students who meet the minimum academic requirements in their secondary school results would now have easier access to teacher-training institutions.
The minister also emphasized the importance of strengthening the education sector through the training of competent teachers, describing teachers as the foundation of national development. He said improving access to Colleges of Education would help address the shortage of qualified teachers in Nigerian schools.
Education stakeholders have already begun reacting to the announcement, with many describing the policy as a welcome development that could increase interest in the teaching profession. Some experts believe the exemption may also reduce the financial burden on students who struggle with the cost of UTME registration and other admission-related expenses.
However, others have called on the federal government to ensure that the quality of education in Colleges of Education is not compromised despite the easier admission process. They urged authorities to maintain proper screening and academic standards for incoming students.
The new policy is expected to take effect for candidates seeking admission during the 2026 academic session.
The move marks another significant reform in Nigeria’s education system as the government continues efforts to improve access to tertiary education and strengthen teacher training nationwide.