It is 2024 and also the admission time. OldNaijaHistory has made it easy to discover the top 10 universities in Nigeria in 2024, including key information on their academic records, calendars, courses offered, admission requirements, and facilities they have in place that may make the institution your preferred choice.
The Nigerian higher educational system is a necessary gateway to becoming a certified learned professional in selected courses and areas. However, as necessary as a University degree is, without its challenges and despite that, there are still some few institutions that comes in handy in terms of offering worthwhile educational services or they have little stress or issues for their students.
In this article, prospective UTME students will be able to make informed decisions as regards what school to settle for, and an idea of what to expect whether it meets with their personal demands.
Below are the selected universities that made it to the list of top 10 Nigerian Universities.
Here are the top 10 universities in Nigeria based on recent rankings:
1. University of Ibadan (UI)
Known for its strong research output and academic excellence, the University of Ibadan was established in the year 1948. Located in Ibadan, Oyo State, Nigeria. The campus is situated about 8 kilometers from the center of Ibadan.
UI was first established as a college of the University of London and later became an independent university in 1962, making it the oldest degree-awarding institution in Nigeria. The university initially offered programs in Arts, Science, and Medicine, and has since expanded to include 17 faculties.
Notable Achievements
- Academic Excellence: UI is consistently ranked among the top universities in Nigeria and Africa.
- Nobel Laureates: The university boasts notable alumni such as Wole Soyinka, who won the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1986.
- Research Contributions: The university has made significant contributions to research, particularly through its various institutes and centers, such as the Centre for Petroleum, Energy Economics and Law (CPEEL).
- Cultural Impact: Alumni like Chinua Achebe, whose novel “Things Fall Apart” is a cornerstone of African literature, have had a profound impact on global culture.
Admission Requirements
The requirements for gaining admission into the University of Ibadan comprises of UTME and Direct Entry students. But the general requirement as required by the Joint Admission Matriculation Board, JAMB includes;
Age: Candidates must be at least 16 years old by the time of admission.
O’Level Results: Candidates must have at least 5 credit passes in relevant subjects, including English Language and Mathematics, at not more than two sittings. Acceptable results include WAEC, NECO, GCE, and equivalent exams.
UTME (Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination) Candidates
JAMB Score: Candidates must score a minimum of 200 in the UTME.
Post-UTME Screening: Candidates must participate in the UI post-UTME screening exercise and meet the required cut-off marks for their chosen courses.
Direct Entry Candidates
Qualifications: Candidates must possess one of the following:
A-Level passes in relevant subjects.
National Diploma (ND) or Higher National Diploma (HND) with at least an upper credit.
NCE with at least a merit pass.
Degree certificates from recognized institutions.
O’Level Requirements: Same as for UTME candidates.
Specific Requirements for Certain Programs
Medicine and Pharmacy: Candidates must have five credits at one sitting in relevant subjects.
Other Programs: Candidates presenting two O’Level results must have at least six credits in relevant subjects.
How to apply for UI
- Portal Access: Candidates must log in to the UI admission portal using their JAMB registration number and surname as the initial password.
- Fees: A portal access fee of N3,000 and a screening fee of N2,000 must be paid through the admission portal.
- Submission: Candidates must complete the online submission process and upload all required documents.
You can access University of Ibadan’s website HERE
2. University of Lagos (UNILAG)
The University of Lagos (UNILAG) was established in 1962, making it one of Nigeria’s first generation universities. It was established to address the need for a professional workforce to drive the social, economic, and political development of Nigeria, who had just gained independence at that time. UNILAG started with three faculties, namely; Commerce and Business Administration, Law, and Medicine but has grown over the years to expand into over12 faculties and numerous research centers.
Notable Achievements
Notable Alumni
The university has produced many prominent figures, including:
Yemi Osinbajo: Former Vice President of Nigeria.
Genevieve Nnaji: Renowned actress and filmmaker.
Research Contributions: UNILAG has made significant contributions to various fields through its research institutes and centers.
Innovation and Entrepreneurship: The university has a strong focus on innovation and entrepreneurship, with initiatives like the Entrepreneurship and Skills Development Centre.
3. University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN)
The University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN) was established in 1955 by Dr. Nnamdi Azikiwe, who was inspired by the American educational system. It was formally opened on October 7, 1960, just a week after Nigeria gained independence. UNN was the first full-fledged indigenous and autonomous university in Nigeria. It was initially modeled to address the educational needs of the newly independent nation and has since grown to become one of the leading universities in Nigeria.
Location
UNN is located in Nsukka, Enugu State, Nigeria. The university operates multiple campuses: the main campus in Nsukka, the Enugu Campus (UNEC), the University of Nigeria Teaching Hospital (UNTH) at Ituku-Ozalla, and the Aba campus.
Academic Reputation
UNN is renowned for its strong academic programs and research output. It operates 102 academic departments across 15 faculties and offers 82 undergraduate programs and 211 postgraduate programs. The university is known for its research institutes and centers, which focus on areas such as African studies, climate change, space science, and energy research. UNN also has a vibrant entrepreneurial ecosystem, exemplified by the Roar Nigeria Hub, which supports student-led innovations.
Notable Alumni
UNN has produced many notable alumni, including:
- Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie: Renowned author and feminist.
- Peter Obi: Former Governor of Anambra State and 2023 presidential candidate.
- Godwin Emefiele: Former Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria.
- Dora Akunyili: Former Director-General of NAFDAC and Minister of Information.
- Charles Soludo: Governor of Anambra State and former Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria.
- Bennet Omalu: Neuropathologist known for discovering chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE) in American football players.
4. Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU)
Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU) was established in 1961 as the University of Ife by the regional government of Western Nigeria. The university commenced classes in October 1962. It was renamed Obafemi Awolowo University on May 12, 1987, in honor of Chief Obafemi Awolowo, a prominent Nigerian nationalist and statesman. The university was founded to provide higher education and promote research in various fields to support Nigeria’s development.
Location
OAU is located in Ile-Ife, Osun State, Nigeria. The university’s main campus spans 5,000 acres and is situated in the ancient city of Ile-Ife, known for its rich cultural heritage.
Academic Reputation
OAU is renowned for its academic excellence and research output. It is ranked 4th in Nigeria and 1668th globally in the 2024 EduRank ratings. The university is known for its strong programs in various fields, including clinical medicine, environmental science, and engineering. OAU has a vibrant research culture, with numerous publications and citations in various academic disciplines.
Notable Alumni
OAU has produced many notable alumni, including:
- Akinwumi Adesina: President of the African Development Bank.
- Omotola Jalade Ekeinde: Renowned actress and philanthropist.
- Fatou Bensouda: Former Prosecutor of the International Criminal Court.
- Femi Otedola: Business magnate and philanthropist.
- Kayode Fayemi: Former Governor of Ekiti State.
- Dele Momodu: Publisher and CEO of Ovation International.
- Fireboy DML: Popular Nigerian singer.
6. University of Port Harcourt (UNIPORT)
The University of Port Harcourt (UNIPORT) was established in 1975 as University College, Port Harcourt. It gained full university status in 1977. The university was founded to meet the growing demand for higher education in the region and to contribute to the development of human capital and national progress. Over the years, UNIPORT has expanded its academic offerings and infrastructure, becoming one of Nigeria’s leading universities.
Location
UNIPORT is located in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, Nigeria. The university operates multiple campuses, including the main campus in Choba and the Aluu campus.
Academic Reputation
UNIPORT is known for its strong academic programs and research output. It offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs across various faculties, including health sciences, humanities, social sciences, engineering, management sciences, agriculture, pharmaceutical sciences, dentistry, law, and more. The university has a reputation for academic excellence and has been ranked among the top universities in Nigeria.
Notable Alumni
UNIPORT has produced many notable alumni, including:
- Goodluck Jonathan: Former President of Nigeria.
- Rotimi Amaechi: Former Governor of Rivers State and former Minister of Transportation.
- Rita Dominic: Renowned actress.
- Agbani Darego: First black African to win Miss World.
- Omah Lay: Popular Nigerian singer and songwriter.
- Sinach: Internationally acclaimed gospel singer.
- Timi Dakolo: Award-winning musician.
6. Ahmadu Bello University (ABU)
Ahmadu Bello University (ABU) was established on October 4, 1962, as the University of Northern Nigeria. It was named after the Sardauna of Sokoto, Alhaji Sir Ahmadu Bello, the first premier of Northern Nigeria. The university was created to address the educational needs of the Northern Region and to promote research and development in various fields. Over the years, ABU has grown to become one of the largest and most prestigious universities in Nigeria.
Location
ABU is located in Zaria, Kaduna State, Nigeria. The university operates three main campuses: the Samaru Campus, which houses the administrative offices and most of the faculties; the Kongo Campus, which hosts the Faculties of Law and Administration; and the School of Basic Studies in Funtua.
Academic Reputation
ABU is renowned for its academic excellence and research output. It is ranked 6th in Nigeria and 2228th globally in the 2024 EduRank ratings. The university offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs across various disciplines, including physical sciences, social sciences, education, environmental design, medical sciences, and law. ABU is also known for its research centers, such as the Africa Centre for Neglected Tropical Diseases and Forensic Biotechnology.
Notable Alumni
ABU has produced many prominent figures, including:
- Atiku Abubakar: Former Vice President of Nigeria.
- Umaru Musa Yar’Adua: Former President of Nigeria.
- Sanusi Lamido Sanusi: Former Emir of Kano and former Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria.
- Aisha Buhari: Former First Lady of Nigeria.
- Nasir El-Rufai: Former Governor of Kaduna State.
- Dino Melaye: Politician and former Senator.
7. Covenant University
Covenant University (CU) was established on October 21, 2002. The vision for the university dates back to a liberation commission given to Bishop David Oyedepo in May 1981. The university was founded by the World Mission Agency and the Living Faith Church Worldwide. It is located in Canaanland, Ota, Ogun State, Nigeria. Covenant University was created to raise a new generation of leaders and to reinstate the dignity of the black race.
Location
Covenant University is situated in Canaanland, Ota, Ogun State, Nigeria. The campus is known for its serene environment and modern facilities.
Academic Reputation
Covenant University is renowned for its academic excellence and research output. It is one of the leading universities in Africa, operating with a Christian mission ethos. The university has four colleges: the College of Business and Social Sciences, the College of Leadership Development Studies, the College of Engineering, and the College of Science and Technology. Covenant University has been recognized for its rapid rise in reputation and has been named the best private university in Nigeria by the Nigerian Universities Commission.
Notable Alumni
Covenant University has produced many notable alumni, including:
Simi: Nigerian singer, songwriter, and actress.
Ini Dima-Okojie: Nigerian actress.
Bimbo Ademoye: Nigerian actress.
Chike: Nigerian singer and actor.
Ric Hassani: Nigerian singer and songwriter.
Bez: Nigerian multi-instrumentalist and singer-songwriter.
8. University of Ilorin (UNILORIN)
The University of Ilorin (UNILORIN) was established in August 1975 by a decree of the Federal Military Government of Nigeria. It began as a University College affiliated with the University of Ibadan. The institution aimed to provide more opportunities for Nigerians aspiring to acquire university education and to generate high-level manpower essential for the rapidly expanding economy. The university attained full autonomous status in October 1977.
Location
UNILORIN is located in Ilorin, the capital of Kwara State, Nigeria. The university’s main campus is situated on an expansive area of about 15,000 hectares, making it one of the largest universities in Nigeria by landmass.
Academic Reputation
UNILORIN is known for its strong academic programs and research output. It offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs across 15 faculties, including Arts, Agriculture, Environmental Sciences, Life Sciences, Management Sciences, Physical Sciences, Social Sciences, Communication and Information Sciences, Education, Engineering and Technology, Pharmaceutical Science, Veterinary Medicine, and Law. The university has a reputation for maintaining a stable academic calendar and high academic standards.
Nationwide Ranking
In the 2024 EduRank ratings, UNILORIN is ranked 8th in Nigeria and 2601st globally. It is also recognized for its research output, non-academic reputation, and the impact of its notable alumni.
Notable Alumni
UNILORIN has produced many prominent figures, including:
- Femi Adebayo: Nollywood actor.
- Ezekiel Adebiyi: President of the Nigerian Society of Bioinformatics and Computational Biology.
- Pius Adesanmi: Professor and columnist.
- Abdulfatah Ahmed: Former Governor of Kwara State.
- Sarah Alade: Former Acting Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria.
- Is-haq Oloyede: Former Vice-Chancellor of UNILORIN and Registrar of JAMB.
9. University of Benin (UNIBEN)
The University of Benin (UNIBEN) was established on November 23, 1970, initially as an Institute of Technology. It gained full university status on July 1, 1971, and became a federal government-owned institution on April 1, 1975. Over the years, UNIBEN has grown significantly, expanding its academic offerings and infrastructure to become one of Nigeria’s leading universities.
Location
UNIBEN is located in Benin City, the capital of Edo State, Nigeria. The university operates two main campuses: the Ugbowo Campus and the Ekehuan Campus.
Academic Reputation
UNIBEN is known for its strong academic programs and research output. It offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs across 16 faculties, including arts, agriculture, basic medical sciences, dentistry, education, engineering, environmental sciences, law, life sciences, management science, pharmacy, physical science, medical sciences, medicine, and veterinary medicine. The university also has a teaching hospital, the University of Benin Teaching Hospital (UBTH), which provides a range of medical services and training.
Notable Alumni
UNIBEN has produced many prominent figures, including:
- Babatunde Fashola: Former Governor of Lagos State and former Minister of Works and Housing4.
- Richard Mofe-Damijo (RMD): Renowned actor and former Commissioner for Culture and Tourism in Delta State.
- Omoni Oboli: Actress, scriptwriter, and film director.
- Basketmouth (Bright Okpocha): Popular comedian and actor.
- Johnny Drille (John Ighodaro): Singer and songwriter.
- Raymond Dokpesi: Media businessman and founder of Africa Independent Television (AIT).
10. Federal University of Technology, Minna (FUTMINNA)
The Federal University of Technology, Minna (FUTMINNA) was established on February 1, 1983 in order to advance Nigeria’s drive for self-reliance in science, engineering, and technology. It was established alongside Federal University of Technology, Akure and Federal University of Technology, Owerri by President Shehu Shagari.
Location
FUTMINNA is located in Minna, the capital of Niger State, Nigeria. The university operates two campuses: the Bosso Campus and the main Gidan Kwano Campus.
Academic Reputation
FUTMINNA is known for its strong focus on technological education and research. It is a designated Centre of Excellence in Biotechnology and Genetic Engineering, with core competencies in vaccine and drug development. The university offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs across various technology-inclined fields.
Nationwide Ranking
FUTMINNA is ranked 10th in Nigeria in the 2024 EduRank ratings. It is also recognized for its research output, non-academic reputation, and the impact of its notable alumni.
Notable Alumni
FUTMINNA has produced several notable alumni, including:
Uche Jombo: Actress and film producer.
Daniel Etim Effiong: Actor and filmmaker.
Kemi Adesoye: Screenwriter.
Michael Akanji: Sexual health and rights advocate.
