For individuals considering furthering their studies at a Nigerian State University, choosing the right institution is very important. While all state universities undergo thorough vetting by the National Universities Commission (NUC), some stand out for their academic offerings, stability, learning environment, prestige, and quality of education.
In this article, we will outline the top State Universities in Nigeria based on rankings from Times Higher Education, a reputable UK magazine specializing in higher education news and issues worldwide.
Ladoke Akintola University of Technology (LAUTECH)
Ladoke Akintola University of Technology has been consistent over the years which has earned the school the best state university in Nigeria. LAUTECH stands as a distinguished institution of higher learning, dedicated to providing liberal education and fostering research excellence in Nigeria.
The university’s journey began on April 23, 1990, under the name Oyo State University of Technology, Ogbomoso (OSUTECH), within the boundaries of the old Oyo State. However, with the creation of Osun State from the old Oyo State in 1991, the university was renamed Ladoke Akintola University of Technology, Ogbomoso (LAUTECH).
Initially jointly owned by Oyo and Osun States, LAUTECH transitioned to sole ownership by Oyo State on November 20, 2020, following a mutual agreement between the two states.
Throughout its existence, LAUTECH has garnered numerous awards and recognitions, including the titles of Best State University and Best University of Technology in Nigeria. It has also ranked among the top universities in Nigeria and Africa for its research contributions.
With a student population exceeding thirty thousand and over three thousand highly skilled staff, LAUTECH has maintained a standard of excellence reflected in its diverse degree programs across twelve faculties.
Operating across two campuses, the Main Campus in Ogbomoso and the newly established College of Agriculture and Renewable Natural Resources in Iseyin, LAUTECH continues to uphold its commitment to academic and research excellence in Nigeria.
- Website: https://www.lautech.edu.ng/
Lagos State University (LASU)
Established in 1983 by the Lagos State government, Lagos State University (LASU) aims to promote academic excellence. It began with the vision of becoming a leading institution in teaching, research, and community service.
The university’s establishment followed efforts to address low school attendance in Lagos State during Alhaji Lateef Jakande’s tenure as Governor. Despite initial challenges and political changes, LASU commenced operations in October 1984 with a focus on humanities, sciences, education, and law. Over time, the university expanded its administrative structure and developed three campuses in Ojo, Ikeja, and Epe.
Currently, LASU stands as one of the top universities in the country, attracting a high volume of applications from both local and out-of-state students.
- Website: https://www.lasu.edu.ng/
Abia State University (ABSU)
Abia State University (ABSU), established in 1981, is a leading state university in Nigeria that has maintained its prominence within and beyond the Eastern region. Located in Uturu, the university is situated in the Igbo heartland where entrepreneurship is deeply ingrained in the culture. ABSU is committed to fostering entrepreneurship skills among its students, offering a comprehensive entrepreneurship and skill acquisition program to realize its motto of “One Graduate-Two Skills.”
Initially founded as Imo State University in 1981 in the former Imo State, the institution was later renamed Abia State University following the creation of Abia State in 1991. The Uturu campus of the university, now known as ABSU, is located in Isuikwuato Local Government Area, Abia State, Nigeria. ABSU operates on a collegiate system similar to the University of Nebraska, organizing its academic structure into colleges and schools.
ABSU offers a wide range of undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral programs across ten colleges, including Humanities and Social Sciences, Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine, Biological and Physical Sciences, Business Administration, Education, Engineering and Environmental Studies, Law, Medicine and Health Sciences, Optometry, and Postgraduate Studies.
With its main campus in Uturu and a College of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine located in Umuahia, the state capital, ABSU is committed to providing quality education and research opportunities to its students. The university collaborates with institutions, governments, and the private sector in various fields, including science and technology, law, education, social sciences, and humanities, contributing to the development of skilled professionals and innovative solutions.
- Website: https://abiastateuniversity.edu.ng/
Akwa Ibom State University (AKSU)
The story of Akwa Ibom State University (AKSU) traces back to October 2000 when the State Government formed a Committee to lay the groundwork for its establishment. After careful deliberations and reports, another Committee was set up in December 2001 to draft the necessary laws for AKSU’s creation. Fast forward to April 2003, the bill establishing AKSU was passed by the Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly and signed into law by the Executive Governor.
Recognizing the evolving needs of society, the university underwent significant changes, transitioning from AKUTECH to Akwa Ibom State University. In September 2010, this transformation was formally recognized when the bill establishing AKSU was signed into law by Governor Chief (Dr.) Godswill Obot Akpabio. Since then, AKSU has been dedicated to providing top-notch education across various faculties, making a positive impact in Akwa Ibom State and beyond.
- Website: https://aksu.edu.ng/
Delta State University, Abraka (DELSU)
Delta State University, known as DELSU, is a prominent State government university in Nigeria, renowned for its multi-campus system spread across Abraka, Anwai, and Oleh. The school was established in April 1992 by Governor Olorogun Felix Ibru.
DELSU has a rich history, evolving from a Government Teachers’ Training College to a College of Education before transitioning into a full-fledged university.
The institution Offers a wide range of programs from certificate to doctoral levels, DELSU provides quality education and support services including counseling, e-learning, accommodation, and sports facilities. It stands as a testament to academic excellence, embodying a tradition of educational leadership and innovation in Nigeria.
- Website: https://www.delsu.edu.ng/
Edo State University, Uzairue (EDSU)
The university, owned by the Edo State Government, was established to address the growing demand for quality tertiary education in Edo State and Nigeria at large. It aims to develop human capital and contribute to the social, economic, political, cultural, scientific, and industrial growth of the state and the nation. Additionally, the university seeks to increase access to tertiary education for Edo State citizens and other Nigerians.
Edo State University Uzairue, previously known as Edo University Iyamho, has a compelling history shaped by its establishment through the Edo University Uzairue Law in 2014.
- Website: https://www.edouniversity.edu.ng/
Nasarawa State University, Keffi (NSUK)
Nasarawa State University, Keffi, was established in 2001 under the Nasarawa State Law No. 2, during the administration of Governor Abdullahi Adamu. The aim was to provide access to higher education for indigenes, preparing them with skills for state and national development.
Governor Adamu’s initiative followed an education summit and the formation of a Technical Advisory Committee to plan the university’s establishment. The Committee’s tasks included consulting with national educational bodies, identifying infrastructure needs, staffing requirements, and financial estimates.
An Implementation Committee was later formed to liaise with regulatory bodies, select university officials, establish partnerships with existing universities, secure funding, and oversee the university’s setup.
In 2002, Nasarawa State University was established in Keffi, taking over the premises of the defunct College of Arts, Science, and Technology. Professor Adamu Baikie was appointed as the Interim Administrator (Vice-Chancellor), and the university commenced academic activities under his leadership. Despite initial challenges, the university has since become a model institution in Nigeria’s higher education landscape.
- Website: https://nsuk.edu.ng/
Niger Delta University (NDU)
The Niger Delta University (NDU) was established in 2000 and is located on Wilberforce Island, about 30 kilometers from Yenagoa, the capital of Bayelsa State. It is funded by the Bayelsa State Government and has grown from having 1039 students to over 20,000, with 3518 staff members.
The university’s motto is “Creativity, Excellence, Service,” and it offers diverse academic opportunities across twelve faculties. NDU aims to provide students with a friendly environment to develop their abilities and change their lives.
- Website: https://www.ndu.edu.ng/
Plateau State University, Bokkos (PLASU)
Plateau State University, Bokkos, established in March 2005, is the 66th university in Nigeria and the 24th state-owned university. Initially, it faced challenges and temporarily suspended operations in September 2007, but reopened in October 2010. The university offers a range of programs across seven faculties and twenty-three departments. Located in Diram Village, Bokkos Local Government Area, it’s approximately 70 kilometers from Jos, the state capital.
Website: https://plasu.edu.ng/
Yusuf Maitama Sule University, Kano (YUMSUK)
Yusuf Maitama Sule University Kano is a public university in Nigeria owned by the Kano State Government. It operates with two campuses: the City Campus situated at Kofar Nassarawa Kano, and the main campus located along General Muhammadu Buhari Way, Kofar Ruwa Kano.
- Website: https://yumsuk.edu.ng/
