In today’s Nigeria, there’s a strong push for better higher education, and universities play a crucial role in shaping the country’s path forward. Every year, various ranking systems closely examine universities, assessing everything from academic quality and research output to global reputation.
In 2023, the well-respected Ranking Web, known as Webometrics, released its list of the top 10 universities in Nigeria. In this discussion, we’ll explore these outstanding institutions, meticulously evaluated by Webometrics.
We’ll uncover what sets them apart and how their strengths contribute to Nigeria’s educational landscape.
Here is the list of the 10 best universities in Nigeria
| Institution | World Rank | |
| 1. | University of Ibadan | 1207 |
| 2. | Covenant University, Ota | 1353 |
| 3. | Obafemi Awolowo University | 1385 |
| 4. | University of Nigeria | 1494 |
| 5 | University of Port Harcourt | 1514 |
| 6 | University of Lagos | 1699 |
| 7 | Federal University of Technology Akure | 2167 |
| 8 | Ahmadu Bello University | 2244 |
| 9 | Federal University of Technology Minna | 2353 |
| 10 | Landmark University | 2421 |
1. University of Ibadan – World Rank: 1207
Ranked as the best university in Nigeria for 2023, the University of Ibadan holds a prominent position both nationally and internationally. It was founded in 1948 and it has 33,00 students. The university is Known for its strong academic programs and research initiatives, the institution has consistently produced graduates who have excelled in various fields.
2. Covenant University, Ota – World Rank: 1353
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Covenant University Ota secures the second spot on the list. This private institution has gained recognition for its commitment to academic excellence, it was established on the 22nd of October 2002 with 8000 students, enriched with innovative teaching methods, and cutting-edge research. It remains a popular choice among students seeking top-quality education. Covenant University Ota is one of the 2 private universities to make the top 10 rankings. The other university is Landmark University.
3. Obafemi Awolowo University – World Rank: 1385
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Obafemi Awolowo University, located in Ile-Ife, is renowned for its emphasis on research and community development. With a strong focus on producing well-rounded graduates, the university continues to be highly regarded in Nigeria’s academic landscape. It was established in 1961 and it has over 30,000 students.
4. University of Nigeria – World Rank: 1498
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The University of Nigeria, popularly known as UNN, boasts a rich history of academic excellence and research contributions. With a diverse range of programs, the institution offers students ample opportunities to pursue their interests and talents. It has a total of 36000 students and was established in 1955. UNN is rated 4th in the most recent ranking by the Nigerian universities commission. It is the highest-ranked university in the eastern region, coming ahead of notable technology universities such as the Federal University of Technology Owerri, in Imo state – often called FUTO which ranks 7th on the NUC chart 2166th position on the global ranking.
5. University of Port Harcourt – World Rank: 1514
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The University of Port Harcourt has made its mark as a leading institution in Nigeria, known for its strong emphasis on practical learning and research-driven programs. It was established in 1975 with an enrolment of 39,000 students. It has produced many accomplished professionals in various fields.
6. University of Lagos – World Rank: 1699
As one of Nigeria’s oldest and most prestigious universities, the University of Lagos is recognized for its outstanding academic programs and research initiatives. The university which was established in 1962 now has an enrolment of over 40,000, it continues to attract students from across the country and beyond. Many would be surprised that the University of Lagos is ranked 6th on the overall scale. Located in the heart of Lagos’s technology ecosystem, the university has made a significant contribution to the start-up pool for Nigeria.
7. Federal University of Technology Akure – World Rank: 2167
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Focusing on science and technology education, the Federal University of Technology Akure offers specialized programs that equip students with practical skills for the workforce. It was founded in 1981, together with other universities such as Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University Bauchi, and Federal University of Technology Yola to mention but a few. FUTO has an estimated 15,000 full-time students. Its relatively smaller size makes learning conducive and accords an opportunity for in-depth student-lecturer interaction. The university has made a significant contribution to research in science and technology.
8. Ahmadu Bello University – World Rank: 2244
Ahmadu Bello University, located in Zaria, is one of the largest universities in Nigeria. It offers a wide range of courses and is renowned for its commitment to producing well-educated graduates who contribute to the nation’s development. It was established on 2nd October 1962 and it has an estimated 49,954 registered students across its several campuses. ABU Zaria is one of 2 universities in northern Nigeria to be ranked among the top 10.
9. Federal University of Technology Minna – World Rank: 2353
Known for its strong engineering and technology programs, the Federal 7University of Technology Minna is a hub for innovation and research. It remains a preferred choice for students interested in pursuing careers in engineering and related fields. The University of Ibadan, a venerable institution nestled within the heart of Nigeria, was established in the year 1948. As a bastion of erudition, it boasts an enrollment that spans a diverse array of disciplines, hosting a congregation of students whose collective pursuit of knowledge enriches the academic tapestry. It has an estimated 20,000 registered students.
10. Landmark University – World Rank: 2421
Image source: wikipedia.org
Rounding off the list is Landmark University, a private institution that places a strong emphasis on agriculture and technology. It was founded in 2011 and it has a number of 2684 students. The university’s commitment to sustainable development and research has earned it a place among the top universities in Nigeria. Landmark University is the 2nd private university ranked in the top 10. Recall the other is Covenant University which is ranked 2nd on the list.
Nigeria’s education system continues to evolve, and the top universities play a critical role in shaping the nation’s future leaders and professionals. The top 10 best universities in Nigeria for 2023, as ranked by Webometrics and calibrated against the ranking published by the Nigerian Universities Commission (NUC), are commendable institutions that excel in academic excellence, research contributions, and overall impact on society. These universities remain a testament to Nigeria’s commitment to providing quality higher education and driving progress in various fields. As students and researchers continue to seek quality education, these institutions will undoubtedly play a vital role in shaping Nigeria’s path towards socio-economic development.
