Top Nigerian Universities According to Times Higher Education Rankings, 2026

Nigeria has strengthened its position in global higher education, with 24 universities earning spots in the 2026 Times Higher Education (THE) World University Rankings and THE Sub-Saharan Africa University Rankings. The achievement gives Nigeria the highest number of ranked universities among countries in Sub-Saharan Africa.

The latest rankings place the University of Ibadan and the University of Lagos among Nigeria’s top-performing institutions, while Bayero University Kano also secured a prominent position. Nigeria’s representation increased from 21 universities in previous editions to 24 in the 2026 rankings.

The ranked institutions include 17 federal universities, three state universities, and four private universities, reflecting the growing strength of Nigeria’s higher education sector in teaching, research, innovation, and international engagement.

Commenting on the development, the Minister of Education, Dr. Tunji Alausa, described it as a major milestone and evidence of the positive impact of ongoing reforms in the education sector. He noted that the recognition highlights the Federal Government’s commitment to advancing research, innovation, human capital development, and sustainable national growth.

Stakeholders believe the rankings will further boost the global visibility of Nigerian universities, attract research funding, strengthen international collaborations, and encourage continued investment in quality education and institutional development.

The 24 Nigerian universities featured in the 2026 THE rankings are:

1. University of Ibadan
2. University of Lagos
3. Bayero University Kano
4. Covenant University
5. Landmark University
6. Ahmadu Bello University
7. Federal University of Technology, Minna
8. University of Ilorin
9. University of Jos
10. University of Nigeria, Nsukka
11. Babcock University
12. Delta State University, Abraka
13. Ekiti State University
14. Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta
15. Federal University of Technology, Akure
16. Federal University of Technology, Owerri
17. Federal University Oye-Ekiti
18. Ladoke Akintola University of Technology
19. Lagos State University
20. Nnamdi Azikiwe University
21. Obafemi Awolowo University
22. University of Benin
23. University of Calabar
24. University of Port Harcourt