Abuja:Nigerian universities have significantly increased their presence in the global higher education landscape, with 29 institutions featuring in the 2027 Times Higher Education World University Rankings.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, Nigeria recorded the highest number of ranked universities among Sub-Saharan African countries. Notably, five universities entered the global rankings for the first time, while another 32 institutions were included under the THE Reporter category, bringing the total number of Nigerian institutions participating to 61.
The Federal Ministry of Education credits this achievement to ongoing reforms aimed at enhancing research, innovation, and the global competitiveness of Nigerian universities. While research quality emerged as the strongest area of performance, the ministry noted that improvements are needed in the research environment and teaching.
Federal universities showed particularly strong performances. The University of Ibadan and the University of Lagos maintained their positions in the 801-1000 band, while Ahmadu Bello University and the University of Ilorin advanced to the 1001-1200 band. Bayero University held its place in the 1001-1200 band, and Covenant University was also placed in the 801-1000 band.
Additionally, federal universities occupied all six Nigerian positions in the 1401-1600 band. Five of the seven universities that demonstrated upward movement were federal institutions, including Ahmadu Bello University, University of Ilorin, Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Obafemi Awolowo University, and University of Benin.
The ministry emphasized that these advancements reflect the success of government-led education reforms. The Nigeria Tertiary Education Ranking Advisory Committee (NiTERAC) is set to begin the 2026 national ranking of universities, polytechnics, and colleges of education. This initiative aims to promote healthy competition and enhance the international standing of Nigerian institutions through a proposed framework utilizing 22 assessment indicators.
The rankings are viewed by the ministry as vital for measuring performance, identifying gaps, and fostering continuous improvement in Nigeria’s tertiary education sector. The commitment to reform continues, focusing on enhancing research, teaching quality, and international collaboration.