The University of Lagos (UNILAG) has been ranked the number one university in Nigeria by the Times Higher Education (THE) World University Rankings 2026.
The new ranking, released on Thursday, October 9, 2025, places UNILAG in the 801–1000 range globally — the same category as the University of Ibadan. The ranking covered 2,191 institutions across the world, making UNILAG’s position a major academic milestone.
Covenant University followed closely in the 1001–1200 range, alongside Bayero University, Kano. The ranking places these universities among the top-performing institutions in Africa, competing favourably with peers in Egypt, Ghana, and Mexico.
Global Standing and Methodology
UNILAG’s global ranking places it in the same tier as respected institutions such as the University of Cape Coast in Ghana, Alexandria University and Cairo University in Egypt, Ain Shams University, and Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México (UNAM) in Mexico.
According to THE, the ranking was based on a range of performance indicators assessing Teaching, Research Environment, Research Quality, Industry Impact, and International Outlook. These indicators are designed to reflect the full breadth of a university’s mission and influence.
The ranking also highlights the growing recognition of Nigerian universities in the international academic community, despite challenges in funding, infrastructure, and brain drain.
UNILAG’s Response
UNILAG’s Vice-Chancellor, Professor Folasade Ogunsola, expressed pride in the achievement. “This milestone is a reflection of the hard work, dedication, and vision of our academic and non-academic staff, students, alumni, and partners,” she said.
She thanked the university community and external supporters for their continued faith and contribution. “We will continue to strive toward excellence and global competitiveness,” she added.
The ranking is expected to inspire more investment in Nigeria’s higher education sector. But will it also challenge the federal government to address the funding gaps that continue to hold many public universities back?
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