Twenty-four Nigerian universities appeared in the 2026 Times Higher Education (THE) World University Rankings by Subject, marking the first time the country has recorded such a feat. The rankings, released on January 21, make Nigeria the most represented country in Sub-Saharan Africa.
The 2026 rankings cover 11 areas: Arts and Humanities, Business and Economics, Computer Science, Education Studies, Engineering, Law, Life Sciences, Medical and Health, Physical Sciences, Psychology, and Social Sciences.
Prof. Emeritus Peter Okebukola, NURAC Chairman and former NUC Executive Secretary, described the achievement as a “testament to the resilience and burgeoning academic prowess of Nigeria.” He added that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration has boosted staff welfare and improved teaching and research environments. He also noted the contributions of previous administrations, including the leadership of Prof. Abubakar Adamu Rasheed.
Universities had to meet strict criteria to be ranked. First, they needed to meet publication thresholds, such as 500 papers over five years for STEM subjects and 100 for law and education. Second, they had to meet staff thresholds in their respective fields.
READ ALSO:
- ABU Revives Dual Degree Programme With China’s CSU to Strengthen Tech Education
- ASUU Blames Education Crisis on Federal Government
- How Private School Fees Reveal Nigeria’s Public Education Crisis
- Private Universities Must Join ASUU—Labour
In law, the University of Ibadan and the University of Nigeria, Nsukka, entered the global top 400 (301–400 band). In Medical and Health, the University of Ibadan ranked 301–400, followed by the University of Lagos at 401–500. Other institutions, including Ahmadu Bello University, Bayero University Kano, University of Benin, University of Jos, and University of Nigeria, Nsukka, fell within the 601–800 band. Universities like Babcock, OAU, and the University of Ilorin were in the 801–1,000 range, while LAUTECH, LASU, Nnamdi Azikiwe University, the University of Calabar, and the University of Port Harcourt ranked 1,000+.
Strength in Technology and Physical Sciences
Landmark University led Nigerian institutions in computer science (501–600), followed by Covenant University and the University of Ilorin (601–800). In Physical Sciences, Federal University of Technology Minna, Landmark University, and University of Ilorin placed 601–800. Other universities, including Covenant University, FUT Akure, Nnamdi Azikiwe University, and the University of Calabar, were in the 801–1,000 range. Ahmadu Bello University, Bayero University, FUT Owerri, LAUTECH, and the University of Lagos were ranked 1,001–1,250. Institutions such as the Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta; OAU; University of Benin; University of Ibadan; University of Nigeria, Nsukka; and University of Port Harcourt were in the 1,250+ band.
Social sciences remain a stronghold for Nigeria. Covenant University and the University of Ibadan ranked 501–600, the University of Lagos 601–800, Landmark University, OAU, the University of Ilorin, and the University of Nigeria, Nsukka 801–1,000, and Ahmadu Bello University, Delta State University, Federal University Oye-Ekiti, LASU, Nnamdi Azikiwe University, and the University of Calabar 1,000+. In psychology, the University of Nigeria, Nsukka, is ranked 501–600.
Global Standards and Ranking Framework
Prof. Okebukola emphasised that THE rankings are based on one of the world’s most demanding frameworks. The rankings use 18 indicators across five pillars: Teaching (30%), Research Environment (29%), Research Quality (30%), International Outlook (7.5%), and Industry/Knowledge Transfer (4%).
He added that Nigerian universities are now competing at a global level. Research in law, medicine, and the sciences is influencing global thought leadership. NURAC will continue working with NUC to sustain this upward trajectory.
The Nigerian Universities Ranking Advisory Committee is dedicated to improving the global visibility and ranking performance of Nigerian universities through data-driven advisory and ranking initiatives.
Esther Ososanya is an investigative journalist with Pinnacle Daily, reporting across health, business, environment, metro, Fct and crime. Known for her bold, empathetic storytelling, she uncovers hidden truths, challenges broken systems, and gives voice to overlooked Nigerians. Her work drives national conversations and demands accountability one powerful story at a time.
