My name is Mustapha Mariam Abolore, a dedicated and qualified student who sat for the 2025 UTME and scored 276. I am writing to humbly appeal to JAMB to reconsider its age policy, which requires candidates to be 16 years old by September 31. I was born on December 8, 2009, just a few months after the cut-off, yet I am being denied access to my result and admission opportunity despite being academically prepared and emotionally mature enough for tertiary education.

This policy is impacting not just me, but also countless other students across Nigeria who, like me, are just shy of the age requirement by mere months. It's unfair to candidates who will turn 16 before the end of the year to miss out on the chance to further their education. By adhering strictly to this policy, many gifted students are losing valuable time and opportunities to advance their academic careers.

By reviewing and adjusting the age requirement to accommodate students who will meet the necessary age within the academic year, JAMB can ensure a more inclusive and fair admissions process. This change can allow deserving students the chance to embark on their educational journeys without unnecessary delay, benefiting the society as these young minds progress towards contributing to our nation's growth.

It is critical that JAMB considers the long-term impact of such policies on young learners and takes steps to amend them. We urge JAMB to act promptly in revisiting this age policy for the 2025 admissions and beyond, enabling more students to continue their education seamlessly and without disruption.

I sincerely request anyone who believes in the fair treatment of students and the access to educational opportunities for all to sign this petition, in hopes that JAMB will make the necessary changes for the benefit of future generations.