Famous Nigerian journalist and businessman Dele Momodu has publicly criticized President Bola Tinubu’s administration for its recent decision mandating that students must be at least 18 years old to take the National Examination Council (NECO) and West African Examination Council (WAEC) exams. This new policy has stirred considerable controversy and debate among educators, students, and parents alike.
The new mandate, announced on August 26, has sparked widespread debate, with many questioning the practicality and implications of the policy. Critics argue that the age limit will create a significant gap for secondary school graduates, who are typically around 15 or 16 years old, leaving them in a potentially challenging position as they wait to qualify for university entrance exams.
Concerned citizens have raised valid questions about the potential effects of this policy. They are worried about what these young graduates will do during the additional years they must now endure before they can sit for the WAEC and NECO exams. The new age requirement could disrupt their educational and career plans, leading to frustration and uncertainty among students and their families.
Weighing in on the controversy, Dele Momodu took to Instagram to voice his concerns about the new policy. In his post, he highlighted the remarkable achievements of Dr. Dorothy Jean Tillman as a counterpoint to the Nigerian government's new mandate. Dr. Tillman, at just 17, earned a doctoral degree in integrated behavioral health from Arizona State University’s College of Health Solutions, demonstrating exceptional academic prowess and an early start in higher education.
Dr. Tillman’s academic journey began at an unusually young age. She enrolled in her first university course when she was just 10 years old. By the age of 14, she had already achieved an impressive educational portfolio, including an Associate Diploma, a Bachelor’s Degree, and a Master’s Degree. Her most recent accomplishment, earning a doctoral degree at 17, underscores her extraordinary talent and dedication.
Dele Momodu’s post read:
“Meet this Chicago teenager, Dorothy Jean Tillman. Ms. Tillman has just become the youngest person in the world to obtain a PHD Doctorate at the age of 17. She took her first university course at the age of 10. At the age of 14, Dorothy Jean Tillman had obtained an Associate Diploma, a Bachelor’s Degree, and a Master’s Degree. Now, at the age of 17, she is Dr. Dorothy Jean Tillman. Respect!”
“And Federal Government via Ministry of Education is saying Nigeria children should wait till 18 years before they write WAEC, NECO and JAMB.”
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