Covenant University has once again demonstrated its dominance in the academic landscape, clinching the title of Nigeria’s top institution in the 2025 Times Higher Education (THE) World University Rankings.
The globally respected rankings, which evaluated institutions from 108 countries and regions, saw 43 Nigerian universities make the cut, with Covenant University leading the pack.
This achievement solidifies Covenant University’s status as a powerhouse of academic excellence, outperforming prestigious competitors like Ahmadu Bello University (ABU), the University of Ibadan (UI), and the University of Lagos (UNILAG).
Covenant’s Consistent Ascent
Covenant University, a private institution established in 2002 by the Living Faith Church Worldwide, has built a reputation for excellence in education, research, and innovation.
Speaking on the recognition, a spokesperson for the university attributed the success to a robust academic framework and consistent investment in human capital and infrastructure.
“Our commitment to providing quality education and producing globally competitive graduates has been our driving force,” the spokesperson stated.
The Top Performers
The 2025 rankings placed Ahmadu Bello University (ABU), Zaria, in the second position, with Landmark University—another private institution—coming in third. The University of Ibadan (UI) and the University of Lagos (UNILAG) rounded out the top five, taking fourth and fifth positions, respectively.
UNILAG retained its 2024 global position but slid one spot domestically, a development that has sparked conversations about the challenges facing public universities in Nigeria.
Dr. Adebayo Martins, an education analyst, noted that “while public universities have made commendable efforts to remain competitive, the challenges of funding, strikes, and outdated infrastructure continue to hold them back.”
Notable Mentions
Other universities that made the top 10 include Bayero University, Kano (BUK), and the Federal University of Technology, Akure (FUTA). These institutions are recognized for their strides in research and innovation despite the funding constraints often faced by public universities.
The rankings highlight the diversity of Nigerian institutions, showcasing contributions from both private and public universities.
Broader Context
The Times Higher Education World University Rankings are widely regarded as the benchmark for academic excellence. Universities are assessed on several criteria, including teaching quality, research output, citations, industry income, and international outlook.
Nigeria’s showing in the rankings reflects both its potential and the challenges it faces in higher education. With 43 universities making the list, the country is gradually cementing its position on the global academic stage.
However, experts stress the need for sustainable investments in education to maintain this momentum. “Nigeria has the talent and potential,” said Dr. Martins. “What we need is consistent funding, better infrastructure, and policies that prioritize education.”
Full List of Nigeria’s Top Performers
- Covenant University
- Ahmadu Bello University
- Landmark University
- University of Ibadan
- University of Lagos
- Bayero University, Kano
- Federal University of Technology, Akure
- Federal University of Technology, Minna
- University of Benin
- University of Ilorin
Other notable universities include the University of Nigeria, Nsukka (11th), Ekiti State University (12th), and the Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta (13th).
Challenges and Opportunities
The rankings have reignited discussions about the disparity between private and public universities in Nigeria. Covenant University’s consistent investment in infrastructure and cutting-edge research has placed it ahead of older, more established public universities.
Meanwhile, public institutions like ABU and UI have continued to perform admirably despite limited funding. Bayero University, Kano, and FUTA, both known for their focus on science and technology, also showcase the potential of public universities to compete on the global stage.
