Top 20 Best Universities to Study Engineering in Nigeria (2026 Guide)

Engineering remains one of the most competitive and respected fields of study in Nigeria. From civil and mechanical engineering to electrical, petroleum, and emerging tech-driven disciplines, the quality of your training largely depends on the university you attend.

With over 170 universities in Nigeria, choosing the best university to study engineering can be confusing. Rankings differ, opinions vary, and many online lists fail to explain why certain schools stand out.

This guide answers one key question clearly:
Which Nigerian university is the best to study engineering?

Rather than relying on popularity alone, we evaluate universities based on:

• COREN accreditation
• Quality of engineering facilities
• Research output and innovation
• Industry connections and graduate employability
• Specialized engineering strengths

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How We Ranked the Best Engineering Universities in Nigeria

Before listing the universities, it’s important to understand the criteria used:

1. COREN Accreditation

Engineering programs must be accredited by the Council for the Regulation of Engineering in Nigeria (COREN). Without this, graduates may face limitations in professional practice.

2. Faculty of Engineering Reputation

Universities with long-standing faculties, experienced lecturers, and strong academic structures rank higher.

3. Research Output & Innovation

Institutions producing impactful engineering research, patents, and industry solutions gain an edge.

4. Facilities & Practical Training

Well-equipped laboratories, workshops, and hands-on training environments are critical for engineering education.

5. Industry & Internship Opportunities

Universities located near industrial hubs or with strong corporate partnerships offer better exposure.

Best Universities to Study Engineering in Nigeria

1. University of Ibadan (UI) — Best Overall for Engineering

Location: Ibadan, Oyo State

Engineering Strengths:

• Civil Engineering
• Mechanical Engineering
• Electrical & Electronics Engineering

The University of Ibadan consistently ranks as Nigeria’s top university academically, and its engineering programs are no exception. UI is known for its research-driven engineering curriculum, strong postgraduate programs, and international collaborations.

UI also performs strongly in African and global engineering rankings, making it an excellent choice for students interested in research, innovation, and advanced engineering careers.

2. Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU) — Best for Facilities & Practical Training

Location: Ile-Ife, Osun State

Engineering Strengths:

• Civil Engineering
• Chemical Engineering
• Materials Science & Engineering

OAU’s Faculty of Technology is widely respected for its modern engineering facilities and strong practical orientation. Graduates from OAU are known for their technical competence and adaptability in the workplace.

3. University of Lagos (UNILAG) — Best for Industry Exposure

Location: Lagos State

Engineering Strengths:

• Electrical/Electronic Engineering
• Mechanical Engineering
• Marine Engineering

Located in Nigeria’s commercial capital, UNILAG offers unmatched access to internships, startups, manufacturing firms, and tech companies. Its engineering graduates are often industry-ready due to strong corporate exposure.

4. Ahmadu Bello University (ABU), Zaria — Best for Engineering Tradition

Location: Zaria, Kaduna State

Engineering Strengths:

• Civil Engineering
• Mechanical Engineering
• Chemical Engineering

ABU has one of the oldest and largest engineering faculties in Nigeria. It is especially strong in civil and mechanical engineering and remains a top choice for students seeking a solid, traditional engineering education.

5. University of Benin (UNIBEN) — Best for Petroleum & Production Engineering

Location: Benin City, Edo State

Engineering Strengths:

• Petroleum Engineering
• Production Engineering
• Mechanical & Electrical Engineering

UNIBEN is highly regarded for engineering disciplines related to oil, gas, and industrial production, making it a strong choice for students targeting Nigeria’s energy sector.

6. Federal University of Technology, Akure (FUTA) — Best Technology-Focused University

Location: Akure, Ondo State

Engineering Strengths:

• Electrical Engineering
• Mechanical Engineering
• Agricultural Engineering

As a specialized technology university, FUTA places strong emphasis on innovation, applied engineering, and technological development.

7. Covenant University — Best Private University for Engineering

Location: Ota, Ogun State

Engineering Strengths:

• Electrical Engineering
• Mechanical Engineering
• Information & Communication Engineering

Covenant University stands out for modern labs, structured academic calendars, and strong research output, especially in emerging technology fields.

8. University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN)

Location: Nsukka, Enugu State

Engineering Strengths:

• Electrical & Electronics Engineering
• Agricultural & Bio-Resources Engineering
• Mechanical Engineering

UNN remains one of Nigeria’s most respected universities, with a strong focus on research and innovation. Its Faculty of Engineering is well-established, and many of its programs maintain solid COREN accreditation. UNN is particularly strong in engineering fields that blend technology with agriculture and sustainability.

9. Federal University of Technology, Minna (FUTMinna)

Location: Minna, Niger State

Engineering Strengths:

• Electrical Engineering
• Telecommunications Engineering
• Mechanical Engineering

FUTMinna is a technology-focused institution with a growing reputation for applied engineering education. Its emphasis on innovation, telecommunications, and practical engineering skills makes it a strong choice for students interested in modern engineering careers.

10. Ladoke Akintola University of Technology (LAUTECH)

Location: Ogbomosho, Oyo State

Engineering Strengths:

• Electrical/Electronic Engineering
• Mechanical Engineering
• Computer Engineering

LAUTECH consistently ranks among Nigeria’s top technology-driven universities. Known for a solid engineering curriculum and hands-on training, LAUTECH produces graduates who perform well in both industry and postgraduate studies.

11. Federal University of Technology, Owerri (FUTO)

Location: Owerri, Imo State

Engineering Strengths:

• Electrical/Electronic Engineering
• Mechanical Engineering
• Mechatronics Engineering

FUTO is one of Nigeria’s leading universities of technology, with a strong emphasis on innovation and applied engineering. Its engineering programs are particularly popular among students interested in automation, electronics, and emerging technologies.

12. University of Ilorin (UNILORIN)

Location: Ilorin, Kwara State

Engineering Strengths:

• Electrical & Electronics Engineering
• Mechanical Engineering
• Civil Engineering

UNILORIN is widely respected for its stable academic calendar and disciplined academic environment. While it may not be as research-intensive as UI or OAU, its engineering programs are COREN-accredited and produce competent graduates with minimal disruptions.

13. Bayero University Kano (BUK)

Location: Kano State

Engineering Strengths:

• Civil Engineering
• Electrical Engineering
• Mechanical Engineering

BUK is one of Northern Nigeria’s strongest universities for engineering. Its Faculty of Engineering has steadily improved in facilities and accreditation, making it a solid option for students in the North seeking quality engineering education.

14. Afe Babalola University, Ado-Ekiti (ABUAD)

Location: Ado-Ekiti, Ekiti State

Engineering Strengths:

• Mechanical Engineering
• Electrical/Electronic Engineering
• Mechatronics Engineering

ABUAD is one of Nigeria’s best-equipped private universities. Its engineering programs benefit from modern laboratories, small class sizes, and a well-structured academic calendar, making it attractive to students who can afford private education.

15. Federal University Oye-Ekiti (FUOYE)

Location: Oye-Ekiti, Ekiti State

Engineering Strengths:

• Civil Engineering
• Electrical & Electronics Engineering
• Mechanical Engineering

FUOYE is a fast-growing federal university with increasing investment in engineering facilities. While still developing compared to older institutions, it is becoming a competitive choice for engineering students in the South-West.

16. Nnamdi Azikiwe University (UNIZIK)

Location: Awka, Anambra State

Engineering Strengths:

• Electrical/Electronic Engineering
• Mechanical Engineering

UNIZIK’s engineering programs are steadily improving, with a growing focus on practical training and COREN compliance. The university benefits from its location in the South-East’s industrial and entrepreneurial corridor.

17. Federal University of Petroleum Resources, Effurun (FUPRE)

Location: Effurun, Delta State
Engineering Strengths:

• Petroleum Engineering
• Chemical Engineering
• Gas Engineering

FUPRE is Nigeria’s only university dedicated primarily to petroleum and gas studies. For students targeting careers in the oil and gas industry, FUPRE offers specialized training closely aligned with industry needs.

18. University of Port Harcourt (UNIPORT)

Location: Port Harcourt, Rivers State

Engineering Strengths:

• Petroleum Engineering
• Chemical Engineering
• Mechanical Engineering

UNIPORT benefits from its proximity to Nigeria’s oil and gas hub. Its engineering graduates often enjoy strong internship and employment opportunities in energy-related industries.

19. Federal University, Dutse (FUD)

Location: Dutse, Jigawa State

Engineering Strengths:

• Electrical Engineering
• Mechanical Engineering

Though relatively young, FUD is investing in engineering infrastructure and steadily expanding its technical programs. It is an emerging option for students seeking federal universities with growing engineering faculties.

20. Modibbo Adama University, Yola (MAU)

Location: Yola, Adamawa State

Engineering Strengths:

• Electrical Engineering
• Mechanical Engineering
• Agricultural Engineering

Formerly a university of technology, MAU maintains a strong focus on applied engineering and agricultural innovation, especially relevant to Northern Nigeria’s development needs.

So, Which Nigerian University Is the Best to Study Engineering?

There is no single answer for everyone.

• Best overall: University of Ibadan
• Best facilities: Obafemi Awolowo University
• Best industry exposure: University of Lagos
• Best petroleum engineering: University of Benin
• Best private option: Covenant University

The best university ultimately depends on your engineering specialization, career goals, and learning environment preference.

FAQs

Which university is the best to study engineering in Nigeria?

The University of Ibadan (UI) is widely regarded as the best university to study engineering in Nigeria due to its strong research output, COREN-accredited programs, experienced faculty, and international recognition. However, the “best” university also depends on your specialization and career goals.

Is UNILORIN good for engineering?

Yes. The University of Ilorin (UNILORIN) is a good choice for engineering, especially for students who value a stable academic calendar and disciplined learning environment. Its engineering programs are COREN-accredited, though it is less research-intensive than UI or OAU.

Is Bayero University Kano (BUK) good for engineering?

Yes. Bayero University Kano (BUK) is one of the strongest engineering universities in Northern Nigeria. Its Faculty of Engineering has improved significantly in facilities and accreditation and offers solid training in civil, mechanical, and electrical engineering.

Which university is best for petroleum engineering in Nigeria?

The University of Benin (UNIBEN) and Federal University of Petroleum Resources, Effurun (FUPRE) are top choices for petroleum engineering. UNIBEN is strong in production and petroleum engineering, while FUPRE offers specialized oil and gas-focused training.

Which private university is best for engineering in Nigeria?

Covenant University is the best private university for engineering in Nigeria. It stands out for modern laboratories, structured academic calendars, strong research output, and emphasis on emerging technology fields.

Does COREN accreditation really matter?

Yes. COREN accreditation is extremely important. Without it, engineering graduates may face difficulties with professional registration, employment, postgraduate studies, and international recognition.

Are Federal Universities better than State or Private Universities for engineering?

Not always. Federal universities often have stronger research depth, but some private universities like Covenant University and ABUAD outperform many federal and state universities in facilities, stability, and innovation. The best choice depends on your priorities.

Which university is best for engineering with strong industry exposure?

The University of Lagos (UNILAG) offers the strongest industry exposure due to its location in Lagos, Nigeria’s commercial and industrial hub. Students benefit from internships, startups, and corporate partnerships.

Is FUTA better than UNILAG for engineering?

Both are excellent, but with different strengths. FUTA is better for technology-focused and applied engineering, while UNILAG offers stronger industry exposure and corporate connections. The better option depends on your career direction.

What should I consider before choosing an engineering university in Nigeria?

Before choosing, consider:

• COREN accreditation
• Engineering specialization strength
• Quality of laboratories and workshops
• Industry exposure and internships
• Academic calendar stability
• Location and cost of living