Best State Universities in Nigeria 2026 | Top 10, 20 & 30 Ranked Guide

Many Nigerian students search for the best state universities in Nigeria when choosing where to apply, especially as competition for federal universities continues to increase.

State universities now play a major role in Nigeria’s higher education system. Over the years, several state owned institutions have improved academic quality, research output, infrastructure, and accreditation status.

This guide presents a clear, balanced, and student focused ranking of the best state universities in Nigeria, using factors such as accreditation, academic reputation, stability, facilities, and national recognition.

It also answers common questions students ask, including the difference between state and federal universities and whether state universities are accredited.

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What Is a State University in Nigeria?

A state university is a tertiary institution established, funded, and managed by a state government in Nigeria.

Unlike federal universities, state universities are primarily funded by individual states. However, they are regulated and accredited by the National Universities Commission (NUC).

Today, Nigeria has over 60 approved state universities, offering programs across science, engineering, medicine, law, education, and social sciences.

How This Ranking Was Compiled

There is no single official ranking system in Nigeria. This guide combines several realistic factors that students care about:

NUC accreditation status
Academic reputation and stability
Research output and recognition
Availability of key courses like engineering, law, medicine, and sciences
Infrastructure and learning environment
Visibility in national and international rankings
Student demand and competitiveness

This is not a promotional list. Rankings are guides, not guarantees.

Top 10 Best State Universities in Nigeria (2026)

These institutions consistently appear at the top based on performance, reputation, and student outcomes.

1. Ladoke Akintola University of Technology (LAUTECH), Ogbomoso

LAUTECH is widely regarded as the best state university in Nigeria. It is especially strong in engineering, technology, agriculture, and health sciences. The institution is known for stable academic calendars and strong graduate quality.

2. Lagos State University (LASU), Ojo

LASU benefits from its location in Lagos. It offers strong programs in law, medicine, social sciences, and arts. Research output and faculty strength place it among Nigeria’s most competitive universities.

3. Ekiti State University (EKSU), Ado Ekiti

EKSU has gained national attention for academic consistency and broad program offerings. It has ranked highly among state universities in recent years.

4. Delta State University (DELSU), Abraka

DELSU is a major academic hub in the South South. It is respected for sciences, arts, education, and management programs.

5. Adekunle Ajasin University (AAUA), Akungba Akoko

AAUA has built a reputation for academic discipline and quality teaching. It continues to grow in infrastructure and research capacity.

6. Olabisi Onabanjo University (OOU), Ago Iwoye

OOU is one of the older state universities and offers a wide range of accredited programs. It remains competitive in the Southwest.

7. Ambrose Alli University (AAU), Ekpoma

AAU is well known for medicine, sciences, and arts. Despite funding challenges over the years, it maintains academic relevance.

8. Rivers State University (RSU), Port Harcourt

RSU is recognized for engineering, technology, and applied sciences, especially in the Niger Delta region.

9. Kwara State University (KWASU), Malete

KWASU is known for innovation, entrepreneurship, and community based learning models.

10. Ebonyi State University (EBSU), Abakaliki

EBSU is respected for medical sciences, health related courses, and growing research output.

Top 20 Best State Universities in Nigeria

In addition to the top 10, the following universities consistently rank within the top 20:

11. Abia State University, Uturu
12. Nasarawa State University, Keffi
13. Osun State University, Osogbo
14. Niger Delta University, Yenagoa
15. Kaduna State University, Kaduna
16. Imo State University, Owerri
17. Enugu State University of Science and Technology
18. Adamawa State University, Mubi
19. Plateau State University, Bokkos
20. Prince Abubakar Audu University, Anyigba

Top 30 Best State Universities in Nigeria

These institutions complete the top 30 category based on accreditation and academic presence:

21. Akwa Ibom State University
22. Gombe State University
23. Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida University, Lapai
24. Umar Musa Yar’Adua University, Katsina
25. Kebbi State University of Science and Technology
26. Yobe State University
27. Sokoto State University
28. Taraba State University
29. Yusuf Maitama Sule University, Kano
30. Olusegun Agagu University of Science and Technology

Are State Universities in Nigeria Accredited?

Yes.

All approved state universities are regulated by the National Universities Commission (NUC). However, not all courses in every university are accredited at all times.

Students should always confirm:

Institutional approval
Course specific accreditation
Faculty status
Graduation history of the department

Accreditation status can change over time.

State University vs Federal University in Nigeria

Federal Universities

Funded by the federal government
Usually lower tuition fees
Very competitive admission
Wider national diversity

State Universities

Funded by state governments
Tuition varies by state and indigene status
Easier access in some cases
Strong regional focus

Neither is automatically better. The choice depends on course, cost, and personal goals.

Why Many Students Choose State Universities

More admission opportunities
Reduced competition compared to federal universities
Specialized programs tailored to regional needs
Improved infrastructure in newer institutions
Growing recognition and rankings

Important Things to Consider Before Choosing a State University

Course accreditation status
Tuition and additional fees
Stability of academic calendar
Hostel availability
Location and security
Graduate employability

Ranking alone should not be the only deciding factor.

Conclusion

State universities in Nigeria have evolved significantly. Many now offer quality education, accredited programs, and competitive graduates.

Rather than focusing only on names or rankings, students should focus on course strength, accreditation, affordability, and long term academic goals.

This guide is a starting point, not a final decision tool.

FAQs

What is the best state university in Nigeria?

Ladoke Akintola University of Technology is widely regarded as the best state university based on consistency and academic performance.

Are state universities better than federal universities?

Not always. Some state universities outperform federal ones in specific courses.

Do state universities accept students from other states?

Yes. State universities accept both indigenes and non indigenes, though fees may differ.

Is LASU better than some federal universities?

In some courses like law and medicine, LASU competes strongly with federal universities.

How many state universities are in Nigeria?

Nigeria currently has over 60 approved state universities.