Covenant University has emerged as the leading Nigerian institution in the recently released 2025 World University Rankings, announced at the Times Higher Education World Academic Summit in Manchester, UK. Professor Peter Okebukola, Chairman of the National Universities Ranking Advisory Committee (NURAC), praised the achievements of Nigerian universities, highlighting that Covenant University is the only Nigerian institution ranked among the top 1000 universities globally, specifically within the 801-1000 band.
At a press conference in Abuja, Okebukola emphasized that Nigerian universities have excelled over the past three years, contributing to Africa’s reputation in higher education. While the University of Oxford secured the top global position, several other renowned universities followed closely behind, including MIT and Harvard.
In addition to Covenant University, four other Nigerian universities—Ahmadu Bello University, Landmark University, University of Ibadan, and University of Lagos—were classified in the 1000-1200 ranking band. Other institutions fell into categories for rankings between 1201-1500 and beyond, while some remain unranked, indicating progress in their research output.
Okebukola detailed the criteria for the rankings, which include teaching, research quality, international outlook, and industry collaboration. He expressed optimism that with increased investment in infrastructure and staff welfare, Nigerian universities can achieve higher rankings in future assessments. The NURAC plans to conduct workshops to further support academic leaders in improving their institutions’ standings.
As the academic community prepares for the 2026 World University Rankings, Okebukola has called for commitment from government and university leadership to advance the quality and global competitiveness of Nigerian higher education.
