The University of Ibadan (UI) has been ranked the best university in Nigeria in the Times Higher Education (THE) World University Rankings 2026, reclaiming the top spot from Covenant University. UI and UNILAG both fall within the 801–1000 global band, followed by Bayero University Kano, Covenant, and Landmark University.
The University of Ibadan (UI) has reclaimed its position as Nigeria’s best university, according to the Times Higher Education (THE) World University Rankings 2026.
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UI, which last held the top spot in 2023, rose from fourth place in 2025 to lead 50 other Nigerian institutions
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It now sits within the 801–1000 global band — ahead of the University of Lagos (UNILAG), Bayero University Kano (BUK), and Covenant University, ranked second, third, and fourth respectively.
The 2026 ranking assessed 2,191 universities from 115 countries using 18 indicators across teaching, research, industry, and international outlook.
Among Nigerian institutions, UNILAG scored highest in research quality, BUK led in international outlook, and Covenant University topped in industry engagement.
Full Nigerian ranking (THE 2026):
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University of Ibadan (801–1000)
University of Lagos (801–1000)
Bayero University Kano (1001–1200)
Covenant University (1001–1200)
Landmark University (1001–1200)
Ahmadu Bello University, FUT Minna, UNILORIN, UNIJOS, UNN (1201–1500)
Babcock University, OAU, LASU, UNIBEN, UNIPORT, among others (1501+)
A total of 51 Nigerian universities made the 2026 list, with 27 others listed but unranked.