Top 10 Public Universities In Nigeria For 2025

Public universities in Nigeria remain the most sought-after institutions due to their affordability, wide course offerings, and national recognition. These universities are either federally or state-funded and are regulated by the National Universities Commission (NUC).

In this 2025 guide, we highlight the Top 10 Public Universities in Nigeria, based on factors such as:

• Academic performance

• Accreditation

• Graduate employability

• Research capacity

• Campus infrastructure

Top 10 Public Universities in Nigeria (2025 Ranking)

1. University of Ibadan (UI)

• Location: Ibadan, Oyo State

• Type: Federal

• Founded: 1948

• Highlights:

  • Nigeria’s first university

  • Renowned for medicine, arts, science, and research

  • Strong postgraduate and international collaborations

2. University of Lagos (UNILAG)

• Location: Akoka, Lagos State

• Type: Federal

• Founded: 1962

• Highlights:

  • Located in Nigeria’s commercial hub

  • Top programs in law, business, engineering

  • Tech and innovation-driven institution

3. Ahmadu Bello University (ABU)

• Location: Zaria, Kaduna State

• Type: Federal

• Founded: 1962

• Highlights:

  • One of Africa’s largest universities

  • Leading in agriculture, veterinary science, education

  • Strong postgraduate and research programs

4. Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU)

• Location: Ile-Ife, Osun State

• Type: Federal

• Founded: 1961

• Highlights:

  • Historic reputation for academic rigor

  • Excellent in engineering, law, humanities

  • Advanced ICT infrastructure

5. University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN)

• Location: Enugu State

• Type: Federal

• Founded: 1960

• Highlights:

  • First indigenous university in Nigeria

  • Strong medical, agricultural, and arts faculties

  • Popular choice in Southeast Nigeria

6. University of Ilorin (UNILORIN)

• Location: Ilorin, Kwara State

• Type: Federal

• Founded: 1975

• Highlights:

  • Known for academic calendar stability (few or no strikes)

  • Competitive law, engineering, and science programs

  • High student satisfaction rate

7. Federal University of Technology, Akure (FUTA)

• Location: Ondo State

• Type: Federal

• Founded: 1981

• Highlights:

  • STEM-focused institution

  • Great for engineering, tech, ICT, and environmental science

  • High research output and international partnerships

8. University of Benin (UNIBEN)

• Location: Benin City, Edo State

• Type: Federal

• Founded: 1970

• Highlights:

  • Strong in medicine, engineering, and law

  • One of the most diverse student populations in Nigeria

  • Respected across West Africa

9. Lagos State University (LASU)

• Location: Ojo, Lagos State

• Type: State

• Founded: 1983

• Highlights:

  • Best-performing state university in 2025

  • Popular for law, arts, and education

  • Government-backed infrastructure improvement

10. Bayero University, Kano (BUK)

• Location: Kano State

• Type: Federal

• Founded: 1977

• Highlights:

  • Top university in Northern Nigeria

  • Specializes in Islamic studies, medicine, and social sciences

  • Inclusive and diverse academic community

Summary Table: Top 10 Public Universities in Nigeria (2025)

Why Choose a Public University in Nigeria?

• More affordable than private options

• Globally recognized degrees (especially federal universities)

• Greater program diversity and specialization

• NUC-accredited and government-regulated

• Opportunities for scholarships and federal funding

Tips for Gaining Admission into Public Universities in 2025

1. Aim for high JAMB and Post-UTME scores

2. Choose a university that aligns with your desired course

3. Upload your O’level results on time to JAMB portal

4. Monitor each school’s admission portal for updates

5. Stay consistent and prepare early for post-UTME screening

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

❓Are all public universities in Nigeria NUC-approved?

No. Only those that meet academic and infrastructure standards are approved. Always verify with the NUC.

❓Which public university rarely goes on strike?

UNILORIN is known for minimal disruption in academic activities.

❓Is LASU better than some federal universities?

In 2025, LASU ranks among the best, especially in Law, Arts, and Education, outperforming many older institutions.

❓Do public universities offer scholarships?

Yes, especially federal universities. Look out for TETFund, PTDF, and institutional grants.

❓Are public universities better than private universities?

They offer more affordable education, and some (like UI, UNILAG) are ranked higher than most private universities.

Final Thoughts

Choosing the right university is the first step toward academic success. These Top 10 public universities in Nigeria for 2025 offer not only quality education but also the recognition and value you need in today’s job market.

Whether you're applying through UTME, Direct Entry, or Transfer, these institutions remain the most respected in Nigeria’s higher education system.