In Nigeria, tertiary education plays a crucial role in shaping the future of individuals and the nation as a whole. As the demand for higher education grows, choosing the right university becomes increasingly important. With the release of the Times Higher Education (THE) Rankings for 2024, finding the top Nigerian universities has never been more imperative.
Attending the best universities not only provides students with a quality education but also opens up a world of opportunities for their future success. Let’s explore the importance of tertiary education in Nigeria and why attending the top universities is ideal for aspiring students.
Public universities, funded by the government, often cater to a large student population and offer a broad spectrum of academic programs. Private universities, on the other hand, provide alternative options for students seeking specialized education or smaller class sizes.
Table of contents
- Top Nigerian Universities In 2024 (Times Higher Education (THE) Rankings)
- Why You Should Study At Nigerian Universities
- How Much Does It Cost To Study At Nigerian Universities?
- Can I Study At A Nigerian University As An International Student?
- FAQs On Top Nigerian Universities
- Conclusion
- References
- We Also Recommend
Top Nigerian Universities In 2024 (Times Higher Education (THE) Rankings)
Our list of best Nigerian universities in 2024 was curated from the Times Higher Education (THE) Rankings for the year 2024, ranking top universities in the country.
THE World University Rankings stand as the premier global benchmarks, evaluating research-intensive universities across key pillars: teaching, research environment, research quality, knowledge transfer, and international outlook.
Here’s a list of the 37 best universities in Nigeria presently.
Nigeria Ranking 2024 | Sub-Saharan Africa University Rankings 2024 | University | City |
1 | 7 | Covenant University | Ota |
2 | 26 | Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta | Abeokuta |
3 | 30 | Benson Idahosa University | Benin City |
4 | =31 | Nnamdi Azikiwe University | Awka |
5 | 35 | Redeemer’s University | Ede |
6 | 36 | University of Ibadan | Oyo |
7 | 37 | University of Cross River State | Calabar |
8 | =39 | Obafemi Awolowo University | Ife |
9 | 43 | Umaru Musa Yar’adua University | Katsina |
10 | 45 | Adeleke University | Ede |
11 | 46 | Ahmadu Bello University | Zaria |
12 | 47 | University of Benin | Benin City |
13 | 49 | Landmark University | Omu Aran |
14 | 50 | Babcock University | Ilishan-Remo |
=15 | 51-60 | Ajayi Crowther University | Oyo Town |
=15 | 51-60 | Bells University of Technology | Sifor |
=15 | 51-60 | Federal University of Kashere | Gombe |
=15 | 51-60 | Federal University Lokoja | Lokoja |
=15 | 51-60 | Gombe State University | Gombe |
=15 | 51-60 | Lagos State University | Ojo, Ukeja and Epa. |
=15 | 51-60 | University of Port Harcourt | Rivers State |
=22 | 61-70 | Baze University | Abuja |
=22 | 61-70 | Delta State University, Abraka | Abraka |
=22 | 61-70 | Elizade University | Ilara-Mokin |
=22 | 61-70 | Niger Delta University | Amassoma |
=26 | 71+ | Abia State University | Uturu |
=26 | 71+ | Alex Ekwueme Federal University, Ndufu-Alike | Abakaliki |
=26 | 71+ | Bamidele Olumilua University of Education, Science and Technology, Ikere-Ikiti | Ikere-Ekiti |
=26 | 71+ | Bauchi State University, Gadau | Abuja |
=26 | 71+ | Bayero University | Kano |
=26 | 71+ | Edo State University, Uzairue | Iyamho |
=26 | 71+ | Ladoke Akintola University of Technology | Ogbomoso |
=26 | 71+ | Lead City University | Ibadan City |
=26 | 71+ | National Open University of Nigeria | Lagos |
=26 | 71+ | Glorious Vision University | Ogwa |
=26 | 71+ | Veritas University, Abuja | Abuja |
=26 | 71+ | Yusuf Maitama Sule University, Kano | Kano |
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Why You Should Study At Nigerian Universities
When studying in Nigeria, it’s like being put through a fire and coming out as shining gold. The education system is uniquely tailored to prepare students for the challenges of real-life situations, especially in third-world environments. Even if you attend a private institution, you won’t be exempt from the restrictions and limitations that are part and parcel of the Nigerian educational experience.
The educational processes in Nigeria is designed to reflect the country’s realities, including the harsh situations that students may encounter.
Whether you attend a public or private institution in Nigeria, there are a few benefits you stand to gain. Keep reading as we explore the many benefits of studying in Nigeria. From affordability and ease of adjustment to streamlined processes like NYSC certificate verification and university transcript retrieval, Nigeria offers a conducive environment for academic pursuits.
1. Affordability
Living and studying overseas requires strong finances to cover not only tuition fees but also the general cost of living in the country unless you are on a scholarship.
Most federal and state government-owned universities in Nigeria are affordable compared to universities abroad.
Some Nigerian students studying abroad face financial challenges that prevent them from progressing beyond the initial or sophomore level in college. As a result, they may need to take low-paying jobs to support themselves, which can prolong their time in college or even lead to dropping out.
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2. Adjustment to the Surroundings
My upbringing in Nigeria offers me a big edge when it comes to living and studying in Nigeria. People have probably learned enough about the politics, economy, weather, and other aspects of the area to consider when selecting a study site.
When studying domestically rather than overseas, Nigerian students typically find it easier to adapt to the new environment. One must adjust to new work environments and weather, deal with foreign regulations, and possibly pick up a new language if English is not the native tongue. This is especially true if one is working while pursuing a degree.
3. Ease of Getting into University
Gaining university admission to a Nigerian university is easy compared to securing admission to study abroad.
In Nigeria, the basic requirements to gain admission typically include O’-level results (with credit passes in English language, Mathematics, and relevant subjects) and a JAMB UTME score of 160 and above (depending on the set benchmark for the year).
For foreign institutions, candidates may require additional proficiency tests like TOEFL, IELTS, GMAT, and others before being considered eligible for admission.
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4. NYSC Certificate Verification
For Nigerians studying abroad, you’ll agree with me that after undergraduate study abroad, verifying your documents for the one-year mandatory National Youth Service (NYSC) doesn’t come easy.
Due to concerns about fake submissions from foreign institutions, the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) now requires physical verification of certificates and other documents from prospective corps members who graduated from foreign institutions.
In contrast, Nigerian-trained graduates have a simpler process, as the NYSC Headquarters receives a list of graduates from the Senate Committees of every university for mobilization.
5. Local Scholarships
Nigerian students have access to a variety of scholarships and grants like MTN scholarships, Julius Berger scholarships, Nigerian Breweries scholarships, and lots more. These scholarships reduce the financial burden and make quality education accessible to many.
How Much Does It Cost To Study At Nigerian Universities?
According to reports, the most expensive federal university for undergraduate programs in Nigeria is The Federal University Oye-Ekiti with ₦99,000, followed by Nigeria Maritime University with an annual tuition fee of ₦51,500 for its bachelor program.
Can I Study At A Nigerian University As An International Student?
International students are welcome to study in Nigeria. All they need to do is get the necessary permit and they are good to go.
According to a report from enroly, overall international student numbers for the September 2023 intake have increased year-on-year, with the number of students issued with a CAS rising by 4.38%. The number of students with a CAS from the largest overseas market, India, has remained relatively stable, dropping slightly by 1.43% when compared to 2022.
FAQs On Top Nigerian Universities
There are 49 federal universities in the country. Some were founded years ago, while others were recently approved by President Muhammadu Buhari and are set to start operating soon.
The most expensive federal university for undergraduate programs in Nigeria is The Federal University of Oye-Ekiti with ₦99,000, followed by Nigeria Maritime University with an annual tuition fee of ₦51,500 for its bachelor program.
International students are welcome to study in Nigeria. All they need to do is get the necessary permit and they are good to go.
Conclusion
There are numerous universities in present-day Nigeria. Some are private, while others are state or federal government-owned. If you are a student who desires to acquire higher education, you need to look at the list of top universities in Nigeria. These institutions offer multiple programs at different levels of academic learning.
References
- timeshighereducation.com – Best universities in Nigeria
- legit.ng – 2024 Ranking: List of Top 15 Best Universities in Nigeria Emerges
- enroly.com – Overall international student numbers rise amid a sharp fall in Nigerian students