Nigeria boasts a plethora of higher education institutions, including universities, polytechnics, and colleges of education, spread across its 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja. Each college possesses unique attributes regardless of its ranking.
Traditionally, universities are usually favored over other institutions in Nigeria, with polytechnics following closely behind. However, there has been a gradual shift in perception as people now recognize the practical advantages offered by polytechnics in many courses, compared to the theoretical approach often adopted by universities. Nevertheless, some institutions successfully integrate both theoretical and practical knowledge.
Colleges of education in Nigeria today are also playing a crucial role in training teachers and individuals aspiring for careers in teaching. While secondary school certificate holders may qualify to teach in primary schools and, in some cases, secondary schools, colleges of education provide a more structured platform for aspiring educators. For example, the Nigerian government recognizes the National Certificate in Education (NCE) as a requirement for teaching positions in public schools. Even holders of Higher National Diplomas (HND) or Bachelor’s degrees (BSc) may need a Postgraduate Diploma in Education (PGDE) or NCE for consideration in teaching roles.
Despite their significance, colleges of education often do not receive the recognition they deserve. Without adequately trained teachers laying the foundation, improvements in Nigeria’s education sector may be limited.
If you are planing to study in any of these COEs, This article will explore the top colleges of education in Nigeria, based on rankings provided by the reliable Webometrics.
Adeyemi College of Education Ondo
Adeyemi College of Education in Ondo is currently recognized as the top College of Education in Nigeria, holding a very high position among all tertiary institutions in the country.
Its journey began in 1963 to train teachers equipped with the necessary skills to teach in secondary schools and teachers’ training colleges, thereby enhancing the quality of education in Nigeria through research and experimentation.
Formally approved in 1963, academic activities commenced in 1964 with an initial enrollment of 93 students, consisting of 24 women and 69 men.
The college is organized into five schools: Vocational and Technical Education, Arts and Social Sciences, Education, Languages, and Sciences, offering applicants a choice of 28 academic departments.
Situated in Ondo State, the college shares the same town with Ondo State University of Medical Sciences and Wesley University of Science and Technology. It is noteworthy that this town is currently the only location in Nigeria hosting three specialized degree-awarding institutions.
- Website: https://aceondo.edu.ng.
Alvan Ikoku Federal College of Education Owerri
Alvan Ikoku Federal College of Education in Owerri has earned its place among the top educational institutions, thanks to the dedicated efforts of its management in ensuring students receive the highest quality education.
Established in April 1963, the school was initially named Advanced Teachers Training College by the Eastern Nigeria Government. It was situated on the premises of the Old Shell Camp in Owerri, Nigeria. Since its inception, the college has been dedicated to the training and development of teachers, striving to enhance their professional skills within a framework of academic excellence.
A notable achievement of the college is its offering of not only the Nigerian Certificate in Education (NCE) to qualified graduates but also the Professional Diploma in Education (PDE). Additionally, the college is affiliated with the University of Nigeria, Nsukka, offering the Bachelor of Education (B.Ed) degree program.
Being a student at Alvan Ikoku Federal College of Education means more than just acquiring a qualification; it means being part of an institution with both local and global recognition. Moreover, the courses are delivered to the highest standards, with the college boasting some of the best and most experienced lecturers in the country.
- Website: https://www.alvanikoku.edu.ng/.
Kwara State College of Education, Ilorin
The Kwara State College of Education, Ilorin, established in September 1974, began as the School of Education under the administration of the Kwara State College of Technology, Ilorin. It later evolved into the Advanced Teachers’ College and gained autonomy in 1976.
In 1978, the college’s name was changed to the Kwara State College of Education, with plans to move it to Oro and affiliate it with Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, for exam moderation.
However, in 1980, Governor Alhaji Adamu Attah announced during a Convocation address that the college would remain in Ilorin, with plans for another college to be established in Oro. This decision led to the college reaffiliating with the University of Ilorin, marking a significant milestone in its academic journey.
- Website: https://www.kwcoeilorin.edu.ng/
Adeniran Ogunsanya College of Education
Originally founded in 1958 as Lagos State College of Education, Adeniran Ogunsanya College of Education (AOCOED) has a rich history of providing quality higher education in Nigeria. The institution was established with the primary objective of training students to become competent teachers and awarding certificates upon program completion.
Initially admitting just ninety students focused on primary-level teaching, the college evolved over the years. Within a decade, it transitioned into a Government Teacher Training College, tasked with the responsibility of producing Grade II teachers. Subsequently, significant transformations occurred, expanding the scope of teacher training to all levels.
Presently, AOCOED offers the National Certificate in Education (NCE) as well as undergraduate first-degree programs in Education. It has established an affiliation with Ekiti State University, Ado-Ekiti, enabling students to pursue higher education and obtain degrees.
The core mission of AOCOED is to advance knowledge and skill development among aspiring and practicing teachers. With a focus on inspiring a passion for teaching, the college continues to play a vital role in shaping the education sector in Nigeria.
- Website: https://aocoed.edu.ng/
Michael Otedola College of Primary Education
Michael Otedola College of Primary Education, formerly known as Lagos State College of Primary Education (LACOPED), was established in 1994, making it the first specialized college of primary education in Nigeria. Academic activities commenced officially the following year.
The college was established with the primary objective of offering essential training and guidance to prospective teachers. It operates the National Certificate in Education (NCE) Programme and also awards degree certificates through its affiliation with the University of Ibadan. Situated in Epe, Lagos State, the college plays a crucial role in shaping the future of primary education in Nigeria.
- Website: www.mocped.edu.ng
Nwafor Orizu College of Education Nsugbe
Established in 1976 to enhance education in Nigeria, Nwafor Orizu College of Education, Nsugbe has evolved into one of the esteemed institutions in the country. The college is named in honor of Prince Abyssinia Akweke Nwafor Orizu, the second Senate President of Nigeria during the First Republic.
With a steadfast commitment to excellence, the college strives to set a benchmark for other institutions by equipping prospective teachers with the necessary training and skills. Leveraging a dedicated team of staff and incorporating modern techniques and technology, the college ensures that aspirants receive a quality education comparable to that of universities and polytechnics.
- Website: http://www.nocen.edu.ng
Emmanuel Alayande College of Education Oyo
St. Andrew’s College, Oyo, now known as Emmanuel Alayande College of Education, Oyo, was established in 1896 as part of the Church Missionary Society’s efforts to enhance education quality in Nigeria. It holds the distinction of being the oldest Teachers’ Training College in the country.
After operating for several years, there was a growing demand for the college to be elevated to a higher institution capable of awarding the Nigerian Certificate in Education (NCE). This request was eventually granted by the Oyo state government. To ensure effective oversight, the college initially operated under the auspices of Oyo State College of Education, Ila Orangun, before transitioning into a full-fledged college of education.
Despite its long history, Emmanuel Alayande College of Education, Oyo, remains one of the foremost post-secondary institutions in Nigeria, maintaining its legacy of providing quality teacher education.
- Website: https://eacoed.edu.ng
Federal College of Education, Obudu
Established in 1983, the Federal College of Education, Obudu, has emerged as the 7th best college of education in Nigeria. Located in Cross River State, in the South-South region of Nigeria, the college prides itself on its federal ownership, which ensures that it is open to students from all religious and tribal backgrounds.
As a federal institution, the college welcomes applicants from across Nigeria, regardless of their state or tribe, making the selection process inclusive and accessible. Additionally, students at the college benefit from dedicated and experienced lecturers who are committed to academic excellence.
Furthermore, the college offers affordable tuition fees, aligning with the affordability of most federal colleges of education in Nigeria. This combination of accessibility, quality education, and affordability makes the Federal College of Education, Obudu, a desirable choice for those seeking to make a meaningful impact in the Nigerian education sector.
- Website: https://www.fceobudu.edu.ng
Federal College of Education Zaria
The Federal College of Education, Zaria, also known as FCE Zaria, is an esteemed institution located in Zaria, Kaduna State.
The Institution was established by the then Northern Region Government of Nigeria in November 1962. Initially named the Northern Secondary Teachers College, the institution later became known as Advanced Teachers’ College Zaria.
During this period, it operated under the guidance of Ahmadu Bello University Zaria until 1991 and was renamed Federal College of Education, Zaria. This shift represented a pivotal moment in the college’s journey, as it gained greater independence and sharpened its focus on delivering exceptional teacher training programs.
- Website: https://fcezaria.edu.ng/
Federal College of Education Kano
The Federal College of Education, Kano, also known as FCE Kano, is an institution of higher learning located in Kano State, Nigeria. The college was established as a tertiary institution aimed at training and producing qualified teachers for Nigeria’s educational system.
The Federal College of Education, Kano could be traced back to 1962 when it began as a five-year teacher training course with an intake of 121 post-primary students. Initially named Kano Men’s Training College, it was later renamed Kano Teachers College in 1963.
To cut the long story short, there have been lots of changes of name but In 1990, the Federal Government took over the college through Decree Number 4 of 1986, leading to its final name change to The Federal College of Education, Kano. The college attained autonomy in running Pre-NCE, Remedial Certificate, Diploma, and N.C.E courses, with degree programs affiliated to A.B.U. Zaria.
- Website: https://fcekano.edu.ng/
College of Education Akwanga
The College of Education, Akwanga, located in Nasarawa State, Nigeria, was established in September 1976 as the Advanced Teachers College Akwanga (ATCA). Originally situated in Jos town, the college later relocated to its permanent site in Akwanga on September 1, 1985.
Following the creation of Nasarawa State from Plateau State in 1996, the college’s responsibilities were transferred to Nasarawa State government, aligning with Edict No. 16 of 1996. This transition was prompted by the college’s geographic location within the boundaries of Nasarawa State.
- Website: https://coeakwanga.edu.ng/
Federal College of Education Abeokuta
The Federal College of Education, Abeokuta was established in 1976 as the Federal Advanced Teachers College, alongside similar colleges in Okene, Pankshin, and Yola. Situated in Abeokuta, the historic Yoruba town and capital of Ogun State. In 1982, the college gained autonomy and was renamed the Federal College of Education, Abeokuta, through legal instruments enacted by the government.
The college commenced operations at the Abeokuta Grammar School, Isale-Igbein. Eventually, the college relocated to its permanent site at Osiele, along the Abeokuta-Ibadan Road, which was vested to it by the Federal Government in 1983.
Abeokuta’s strategic location in southwestern Nigeria, with proximity to Lagos and Ibadan, makes it easily accessible. Ogun State, known as the Gateway State, is bordered by the Republic of Benin, Lagos State, Ondo State, Oyo State, and Osun State.
The college offers three-year full-time and five-year sandwich courses leading to the award of the Nigeria Certificate in Education (NCE).
- Website: https://fce-abeokuta.edu.ng/
Federal College of Education, Eha Amufu
The Federal College of Education, Eha-Amufu, was established in 1981 by the State Government. Following its official declaration, efforts were made by the Anambra State Commissioner of Education to secure a permanent site, which was previously occupied by the Federal Government-owned Teacher Training College (TTC), Eha-Amufu.
In 1993, the college was taken over by the Federal Government following the amended Decree No. 34 of 1993 and Decree No. 6 of 1993, which established the Federal College of Education, Eha-Amufu.
Today, the Federal College of Education, Eha-Amufu, is recognized as one of the leading institutions of its kind in Nigeria. It boasts a renowned faculty and a rigorous academic environment, where students are challenged to excel and work hard to earn their certificates.
- Website: http://fceehamufu.edu.ng.
Federal College of Education Technical Bichi
The Federal College of Education (Technical) Bichi is a tertiary institution established in 1986, and reviewed by decree no. 6 of January 1993 by the Federal Government of Nigeria. The school is located in Bichi town of Kano State,
Its primary objective is to produce specialist teachers in technical, vocational, business, and science subjects for the 9-3-4 system of education.
The college has undergone various stages of development and progress since its inception. It offers a wide range of relevant courses and programs at both NCE and Degree levels, as well as vocational/technical services.
- Website: https://fcetbichi.edu.ng/
Federal College of Education Katsina
The Federal College of Education Katsina was established in 1976 by the Federal Government of Nigeria as part of a broader initiative to address the need for well-qualified non-graduate teachers.
Initially known as the Federal Advanced Teacher’s College, its primary purpose was to produce teachers for the Nigeria Certificate in Education cadre. These teachers were intended to serve in Junior Secondary Schools across the country, contributing to the development of education at that level.
- Website: https://fcekatsina.edu.ng
Federal College of Education, Zuba
In 1996, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Jeremiah Timbut Useni, established a committee to develop plans for the creation of a college of education in Abuja. Following extensive deliberations, the committee’s proposal led to the establishment of the Federal College of Education, Zuba, in the same year.
The establishment of the college aimed to enhance the educational sector by providing aspiring and experienced teachers with the necessary training and skills to excel in their profession.
However, the college encountered challenges in May 2000, resulting in its temporary closure. This setback prompted a comprehensive restructuring and reorganization effort to ensure the delivery of quality education to students. After meeting the established goals, the college reopened the following year, bolstered by increased staff and material resources.
Today, the Federal College of Education, Zuba, stands as one of the top-rated colleges of education in Nigeria, a testament to the successful restructuring and reorganization efforts that contributed to its continued excellence.
- Website: http://www.fctcoezuba.edu.ng/.
College of Education Zing Jalingo
After its establishment on August 4th, 1977, the College of Education, Jalingo commenced academic activities the following year at a temporary site located at Nukkai Primary School, Jalingo.
To elevate its standards, the College of Education, Zing, was initially affiliated with Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria. Under this affiliation, it successfully graduated its first five sets of students from 1979/80 to 1983/84, with guidance from Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria. However, in 1983, the college transitioned its affiliation to the University of Maiduguri.
A significant change occurred in 1986 when the supervision previously provided by the University of Maiduguri was transferred to the National Commission for Colleges of Education (NCCE). This shift in supervision also impacted other colleges of education across Nigeria.
- Website: https://www.coezing.edu.ng/
