Best State Universities in Nigeria 2027

Choosing a state-owned university in Nigeria requires more than looking at the name of the institution. Students and parents increasingly consider academic reputation, research output, quality of teaching, technology, graduate opportunities, programme availability and performance in recognised university rankings. For 2027, several Nigerian state universities stand out based on their latest performances in major university ranking systems. Among the institutions attracting the most attention are Osun State University, Lagos State University, Ladoke Akintola University of Technology, Olabisi Onabanjo University, Kwara State University, Delta State University and Ekiti State University.

1. Osun State University

Osun State University, commonly known as UNIOSUN, currently has one of the strongest cases among Nigeria’s state-owned universities. In the Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2027, the university was placed in the 1,201 to 1,400 global band. This made UNIOSUN the highest-ranked state-owned university among the Nigerian institutions included in that edition. The university also recorded notable results in research environment and teaching. Its performance has increased its visibility among students looking for a state university with growing research and academic recognition.

2. Lagos State University

Lagos State University, LASU, remains another major name among Nigeria’s state universities. Located in Lagos, the institution has a large student population and offers programmes across numerous disciplines. LASU was placed in the 1,801 to 2,000 band in the 2027 Times Higher Education World University Rankings. Its location also gives students access to one of Nigeria’s largest commercial and professional environments, which can be useful for internships, networking, entrepreneurship and employment opportunities. The university has continued to maintain a strong presence in national and international university rankings.

3. Ladoke Akintola University of Technology, LAUTECH

Ladoke Akintola University of Technology, LAUTECH, is particularly notable for students interested in technology, engineering, applied sciences and related fields. The university was also placed in the 1,801 to 2,000 band in the 2027 Times Higher Education ranking. In the latest Webometrics ranking, LAUTECH performed strongly among Nigerian universities, demonstrating that its online visibility and academic presence remain significant. Its focus on science and technology makes it an important option for students seeking technical and professional programmes at a state-owned institution.

4. Olabisi Onabanjo University, OOU

Olabisi Onabanjo University, OOU, is another established state university that has gained recognition in recent rankings. The Ogun State-based university was placed in the 1,801 to 2,000 band in the 2027 Times Higher Education ranking. OOU offers programmes across areas such as medicine, sciences, engineering, social sciences, arts, education and management. Its location in Ogun State also places it within close reach of major economic centres in southwestern Nigeria. Kwara State University, KWASU, Delta State University, DELSU, and Ekiti State University, EKSU, are also among the state universities that received recognition in the 2027 Times Higher Education rankings, although they were placed in the broader 2,001-plus global category.

Beyond the universities that received numerical positions in the latest Times Higher Education ranking, other state institutions remain important choices for Nigerian students. Rivers State University, Adekunle Ajasin University and Benue State University are examples of established state-owned institutions that continue to attract students across different academic fields. The difference between ranking systems is important because universities can perform differently depending on whether a ranking focuses on research, teaching, online visibility, international outlook or other indicators. For students choosing a university in 2027, the most useful approach is to consider the institution’s ranking alongside the specific course, accreditation, tuition and other charges, admission requirements, facilities, location and career opportunities.