Nigeria has over 270 universities as of 2025, distributed across its 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT). These institutions include federal, state, and private universities, each contributing significantly to the country’s higher education system. However, some states stand out for having a higher concentration of these institutions, often due to their population size, level of development, educational demand, and private investment in education.
Top States With the Highest Number of Universities in Nigeria
Below is a well-researched list of states with the highest number of universities in Nigeria:
1. Lagos State
Lagos, the commercial nerve center of Nigeria, boasts the highest number of universities in the country. It is home to a wide variety of public and private universities.
-
Federal Universities: University of Lagos (UNILAG)
-
State Universities: Lagos State University (LASU)
-
Private Universities: Pan-Atlantic University, Caleb University, Anchor University, and several others
Total number of universities: Approximately 13
The high population and urbanization of Lagos contribute to the proliferation of educational institutions, especially private universities.
2. Ogun State
Ogun State is often referred to as the “education capital of Nigeria” due to its impressive array of universities and colleges.
-
Federal Universities: Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta (FUNAAB)
-
State Universities: Olabisi Onabanjo University (OOU)
-
Private Universities: Covenant University, Babcock University, Chrisland University, Bells University, and more
Total number of universities: Around 12
Ogun’s proximity to Lagos and its strategic location have made it a favorite for private investors in education.
3. Osun State
Osun is another state with a considerable number of universities, especially faith-based and private institutions.
-
Federal Universities: Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU)
-
State Universities: Osun State University (UNIOSUN)
-
Private Universities: Redeemer’s University, Bowen University, Oduduwa University, Fountain University, etc.
Total number of universities: Around 10
The state is known for its relatively peaceful environment, making it suitable for academic activities.
4. Delta State
Delta State ranks high due to its increasing number of private and public universities.
-
Federal Universities: Federal University of Petroleum Resources, Effurun (FUPRE)
-
State Universities: Delta State University (DELSU), University of Delta (UNIDEL), Dennis Osadebay University
-
Private Universities: Western Delta University, Novena University, Admiralty University, etc.
Total number of universities: About 9
Delta State’s diverse educational expansion is partly driven by government reforms and private initiatives.
5. Abuja (FCT)
Though not a state, the Federal Capital Territory hosts many prestigious institutions due to its central location and national significance.
-
Federal Universities: University of Abuja (UNIABUJA)
-
Private Universities: Nile University, Baze University, Veritas University, African University of Science and Technology
Total number of universities: Approximately 7
As Nigeria’s capital, Abuja attracts top-tier academic investments and international collaborations.
6. Enugu State
Enugu is a major educational hub in the Southeast region of Nigeria.
-
Federal Universities: University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN), though its main campus is in Nsukka
-
State Universities: Enugu State University of Science and Technology (ESUT)
-
Private Universities: Godfrey Okoye University, Caritas University, Renaissance University
Total number of universities: Around 6
The state’s history of academic excellence dates back to the colonial period.
7. Edo State
Edo State has grown significantly in its educational capacity in recent years.
-
Federal Universities: University of Benin (UNIBEN)
-
State Universities: Ambrose Alli University (AAU)
-
Private Universities: Igbinedion University, Samuel Adegboyega University, Benson Idahosa University
Total number of universities: About 6
Edo combines strong government backing and private sector interest to develop its educational landscape.
Why These States Lead in University Numbers
Several factors contribute to the high number of universities in these states:
-
High population and demand for higher education
-
Government educational policies and reforms
-
Investment-friendly environments for private education providers
-
Strategic location and infrastructure development
-
Historical academic legacy and cultural emphasis on education
Conclusion
While every Nigerian state has at least one university, Lagos, Ogun, Osun, Delta, and Abuja lead the pack in numbers. These areas serve as critical hubs for academic research, professional development, and intellectual advancement, contributing greatly to Nigeria’s education sector.
FAQs
Which state in Nigeria has the most universities?
Lagos State has the highest number of universities in Nigeria, with over 13 institutions including federal, state, and numerous private universities.
Why does Ogun State have so many universities?
Ogun State’s proximity to Lagos, peaceful environment, and supportive government policies have made it a hotspot for private and faith-based university establishments.
Are private universities more in the South than in the North of Nigeria?
Yes, the southern region, especially the Southwest, has a significantly higher number of private universities compared to the northern region, mainly due to socio-economic factors and private investments.
Is the University of Abuja the only federal university in FCT?
Yes, the University of Abuja is the only federal university in the Federal Capital Territory, although the FCT hosts several private universities.
Also Read: Al Ansar University, Maiduguri Cut Off Mark
