2025 University Rankings: Top 10 Nigerian Institutions, UNN and OAU Missing.
The Times Higher Education (THE) 2025 rankings have placed Covenant University as the best university in Nigeria, with Ahmadu Bello University and Landmark University following in second and third positions.
These rankings highlight the steady progress of Nigerian higher education, with institutions excelling in teaching, research, and academic performance. Covenant University retained its top position, reaffirming its dedication to academic excellence and innovation.
Rising Standards in Nigerian Higher Education
Over the past few years, Nigerian universities have experienced notable improvements, with many striving to enhance teaching quality, research output, and overall academic excellence.
The Times Higher Education 2025 World University Rankings once again provided a global assessment of institutions, showcasing those excelling in various academic domains. Nigerian universities not only improved their national standings but also gained international recognition.
This year’s ranking saw Covenant University securing the leading position, continuing its legacy of excellence. The list below outlines the top ten Nigerian universities as ranked by THE for 2025.
Top 10 Universities in Nigeria for 2025
- Covenant University Located in Ota, Ogun State, Covenant University secured the top spot in the Times Higher Education 2025 rankings. Its reputation for academic excellence and innovative research contributed to its continued dominance in Nigerian higher education.
- Ahmadu Bello University Ahmadu Bello University, situated in Zaria, ranked second. The university’s strong academic programs and research capabilities reinforced its status as a key institution in northern Nigeria.
- Landmark University Positioned in Omu-Aran, Kwara State, Landmark University claimed the third spot. It is well known for its emphasis on agricultural research and contributions to sustainable development.
- University of Ibadan As Nigeria’s premier university, the University of Ibadan was ranked fourth. It has consistently upheld its reputation for academic excellence and groundbreaking research.
- University of Lagos The University of Lagos, a leading institution in West Africa, took the fifth position. It remains renowned for its diverse academic offerings and dynamic campus environment.
- Bayero University Bayero University in Kano was ranked sixth, recognized for its strong research initiatives and significant contributions to education in northern Nigeria.
- Federal University of Technology, Akure The Federal University of Technology, Akure (FUTA) secured the seventh spot, known for its emphasis on technology and engineering disciplines.
- Federal University of Technology, Minna FUT Minna placed eighth, demonstrating its strength in technological education and innovative research.
- University of Benin The University of Benin, located in Benin City, occupied the ninth position. It continues to be a center of academic excellence in southern Nigeria.
- University of Ilorin The University of Ilorin completed the top ten, maintaining its reputation for strong academic programs and research output.
Notably, institutions such as Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU) and the University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN) were absent from this year’s top 10 rankings.
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Understanding the Times Higher Education Rankings
The Times Higher Education (THE) is a globally recognized authority on university performance data and analysis, providing comprehensive rankings of institutions worldwide. The evaluation criteria include teaching quality, research impact, international outlook, and industry income.
Since its establishment in 2004, THE has remained a respected resource in the academic community, offering valuable insights for students, educators, and institutions aiming to advance higher education standards.
2025 University Rankings: Top 10 Nigerian Institutions, UNN and OAU Missing.
