Universities are key hubs for research and development, driving both economic growth and societal progress.
However, the latest Times Higher Education World University Rankings for 2025 reveal that only a select few institutions consistently lead the way in academic excellence. Oxford University, holding the top spot for the ninth year in a row, showcases its ongoing strength in teaching quality and industry collaboration.
Out of more than 2,000 institutions across 115 countries, it’s clear that while many nations are advancing in higher education, some are still striving to elevate their universities to the highest global standards.
In Nigeria, although the country is home to a number of respected universities, none have cracked the top 10 in Africa this year. Nigerian universities continue to make important contributions to education, but there is still a lot of potential for growth and improvement on the international stage.
Below are the top 10 best universities in Nigeria in 2025:
1.Covenant University
Covenant University (CU) is a private Christian university in Nigeria. In 2019, Covenant University became the first Nigerian university to be ranked in the top 401-500 category of world universities by Times Higher Education. This year, it continues to lead as the top-ranked university in Nigeria.
2.Ahmadu Bello University
Ahmadu Bello University (ABU), a federal research institution in Zaria, Kaduna State, was established on October 4, 1962, originally known as the University of Northern Nigeria. The university boasts a robust medical program supported by the A.B.U. Teaching Hospital, one of the largest in Nigeria and across Africa. With an enrollment of about 35,000 students from all Nigerian states, Africa, and beyond, ABU represents a diverse academic community. It is supported by a dedicated workforce of about 1,400 academic and research staff, alongside 5,000 support staff.
3.Landmark University
Landmark University, a private Christian institution affiliated with the Living Faith Church Worldwide, is located in Omu-Aran, Kwara State, Nigeria. Established by the Living Faith Church, the university is dedicated to raising leaders equipped with the skills and character to address global challenges, particularly in agriculture and food security.
4.University of Ibadan
The University of Ibadan (UI), located in Ibadan, Oyo State, is Nigeria’s oldest degree-awarding institution. Founded in 1948 as University College Ibadan with an affiliation to the University of London, it became an independent university in 1962.
UI consistently ranks among the top universities in Nigeria. In September 2016, it became the first Nigerian university to be listed among the top 1,000 universities worldwide by Times Higher Education. It has also regularly featured in the top 10 African universities in Webometrics Rankings.
5.University of Lagos (UNILAG)
The University of Lagos (UNILAG), established in 1962, is a prestigious public research university located in Lagos, Nigeria. The university offers a wide range of programs across its 12 faculties, including Law, Medicine, Engineering, and Business Administration.
UNILAG consistently ranks among Nigeria’s best universities and has gained recognition on the African continent. It is home to some of the nation’s most prominent research centers, such as the Centre for Biodiversity Conservation and Ecosystem Management.
6.Bayero University, Kano (BUK)
Bayero University, Kano (BUK) is a prestigious federal university located in Kano, Northern Nigeria. Established in 1975, BUK has grown to become one of the leading institutions in the region, offering programs in a wide array of disciplines, including Agriculture, Medicine, Engineering, and Social Sciences. It houses one of the largest libraries in Nigeria, the Abdullahi Bayero Library, which serves as a vital resource for scholars and researchers.
7.Federal University of Technology, Akure (FUTA)
The Federal University of Technology Akure (FUTA), established in 1981, is a federal government-owned institution located in Akure, Ondo State. Renowned for its focus on technology and innovation, FUTA has expanded significantly over the years, encompassing eight schools and over fifty academic departments dedicated to advancing academic excellence and research.
8.Federal University of Technology, Minna (FUTMinna)
The Federal University of Technology, Minna (FUTMinna), established in 1983, is another prominent institution dedicated to advancing science and technology education in Nigeria. The University is a designated Centre of Excellence in Biotechnology and Genetic Engineering and has a core competence in the development of vaccines and drugs, and also small arms design in partnership with the Armed Forces of Nigeria.
9.University of Benin (UNIBEN)
The University of Benin (UNIBEN), established in 1970, is a prominent public research university located in Benin City, Edo State, Nigeria. UNIBEN is renowned for its academic excellence and diverse programs. The institution operates across two campuses and houses fifteen faculties, supported by the well-equipped John Harris Library, which serves as a central hub for learning and research.
10.University of Ilorin (UNILORIN)
The University of Ilorin (UNILORIN) is a federal government-owned public research university located in Ilorin, Kwara State, Nigeria. Known as the largest university in Nigeria and one of the largest in Africa by land area, UNILORIN boasts a vast campus that spans a significant expanse. The university comprises 16 faculties and over 100 academic departments, offering 103 diverse programs across various disciplines. Its robust academic structure and emphasis on research make it a leading institution in Nigeria and Africa.
