- 94-year-old Adedapo Idowu commitment to writing UTME 2025, made an history on the Internet as published in JAMB’s bulletin
- He expressed his determination to perform excellently in the exam, and study Political Science at the University of Ibadan
- He also applauded the smooth registration process for the exam, and the integration of NIN which has breached any form of discrimination for the elderly or people with disabilities
Humans often prove that there are no limitations to what they achieve, often defeating age to fulfil their life-long dream. This reality was exemplified in an exceptional and unique way as a 94-year-old man named, Adedapo Idowu, was brought to the limelight on the Internet this week in the latest bulletin of the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB). He has registered for the 2025 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME), and he shared his excitement about finally pursuing higher education.
“I can now attain my dream at an advanced age,” he said.
Describing the UTME registration process as smooth and efficient, Idowu commended JAMB for integrating the National Identity Number (NIN), which he believes has helped eliminate discrimination against the elderly, underprivileged individuals, and people with disabilities.
“The registration staff gave me a sense of belonging through the warm reception at the registration venue,” he noted.
Encouraging JAMB to maintain its seamless registration system, he expressed confidence in sitting the examination and achieving success. He has applied to the University of Ibadan to study Political Science, and fulfil his dream of becoming a Political Scientist.
He also urged other candidates to embrace professionalism and contentment in their academic pursuits.
The 2025 UTME registration commenced on Monday February 3, 2025, and according to JAMB, over 700,000 candidates have already registered, including 11,000 underage applicants.
Meanwhile, JAMB previously made a release to allow exceptional below 16 candidates to write UTME 2025. This can be seen as an effort by the institution to limit age barriers and allow access to quality education for qualified individuals.
Nigerians react to 94-year-old man registering for UTME
TheRadar compiled the following reactions from netizens online mixed with applaud, criticism and motivation.
“Dream achievement is the ultimate.”
“Congratulations to baba, make jamb encourage baba ooo.”
“Yoruba and education!”
“It's never too late 😌 Goodluck Grandpa.”
“The beginning is when you start. The end is when you end.”
“I guess he has no idea of what jamb is, money wey he suppose use chop better eba and egbusi soup🤣🤣”
“Have a dream and God will give you long life to achieve it. Congratulations 🎊🎈🎉🍾 grandpa.”
“The indefatigable spirit of warriors. Go live your dream, sir.”
“Determination matters the most in a bid to achieve any dream in life👌,I wish you success ahead sir.”
JAMB gives varsities, other institutions 1 month to disclose illegal admissions
Meanwhile, TheRadar previously reported the release made by JAMB for higher institutions to disclose illegal admissions within one month.
This was disclosed by Dr. Fabian Benjamin, Public Communication Advisor for JAMB. He also maintained that the minimum age for admission remains 16 years.
He also noted that institutions conspiring with candidates to falsify details for illegal admissions, has led to fraudulent participation in the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC).
