Nigeria’s higher education sector boasts nearly 130 institutions, both public and private.
Among these institutions, the top universities stood out in the 2023 rankings.
Our ranking is based on the U.S. News and World Report survey and Times Higher Education’s rating which focused on thirteen criteria including global research publications, citations, international collaborations, and conferences.
These universities have been distinguished for their academic excellence, innovative programs, and impactful contributions to society.
Here are the best Nigerian Universities in 2023:
1. Covenant University
Covenant University, a private Pentecostal Christian institution, stands out for its commitment to holistic education.
Organized into four colleges, each offering a range of degree programs and vocational courses, the university emphasizes character development alongside academic achievements.
Its establishment in 2002 reflects a modern and forward-thinking approach to education.
2. University of Ibadan
In 2024, Nigeria boasts some of the best universities, each distinguished for its exceptional performance across various indicators.
Among these, the University of Ibadan holds a prominent position, securing a global ranking of #349.
This university has earned the impressive title of being the fourth-best in Africa.
Noteworthy is its remarkable performance in specific subjects, claiming the 133rd spot in Clinical Medicine and the 86th position in Public, Environmental, and Occupational Health.
The University of Ibadan stands out for its global research reputation, regional research reputation, and strong normalized citation impact, all contributing to a commendable global score of 56.1.
3. University of Lagos
The University of Lagos has earned its place among the top-ranked Nigerian universities with a global ranking of #587.
Holding the 14th position in Africa, it has also made a mark in the subject-specific rankings, securing the 257th spot in Clinical Medicine.
The University of Lagos, situated in the nation’s commercial capital, boasts three campuses offering over 86 undergraduate and 140 postgraduate programs.
4. Federal University of Technology Akure
Established in 1981, the Federal University of Technology Akure focuses on equipping graduates with both theoretical knowledge and practical skills.
With 10 schools covering a diverse range of disciplines, from life sciences to engineering, the institution emphasizes real-world applications of technology, fostering graduates ready for the demands of the professional world.
5. Obafemi Awolowo University
Obafemi Awolowo University stands tall with a global ranking of #1088, earning the 45th position in Africa.
It has secured the 488th spot in Clinical Medicine, showcasing notable performance in global research reputation and normalized citation impact.
Despite a lower global score of 36.8, the university remains a significant player in the academic landscape, emphasizing a commitment to research quality.
6. University of Nigeria
The University of Nigeria, with a global ranking of #1198, has secured the 49th position in Africa and the 704th spot in Clinical Medicine.
The university demonstrates noteworthy performance in global research reputation and normalized citation impact, contributing to a global score of 34.4.
