Global University rankings expose crisis in Nigerian higher education: Only 21 of 274 institutions recognized
Renowned expert in Ecclesiastical Theology and Human Development, Prof. Moses Idowu, has raised alarm over the dismal representation of Nigerian universities in the recent global rankings. Out of the 274 universities in Nigeria, only 21 institutions were recognized, highlighting what Idowu described as a reflection of the deep-rooted misgovernance and maladministration plaguing the nation’s educational sector.
In a critical online post, Prof. Idowu noted that two private institutions, Covenant University and Landmark University, both affiliated with the Living Faith Tabernacle under the leadership of Bishop David Oyedepo, secured top-tier rankings in Bands A and B. Meanwhile, the majority of recognized universities—19 in total—were spread across Bands B to D, with 15 being federal institutions and four state universities.
“What is shocking,” Idowu remarked, “is that no federal or state university made it into the top 1,000 globally. The only universities that did, Covenant and Landmark, are private, mission-driven institutions.” Of the 21 recognized Nigerian universities, six are located in the North and 15 in the South, with the majority in the Southwest.
Idowu expressed particular concern over the poor performance of Nigeria’s first-generation universities. Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU) and the University of Nigeria, Nsukka, were ranked in the lower Bands C and D, falling behind newer institutions like Landmark University, which was established less than a decade ago.
Breaking down the rankings, Idowu shared results from former Executive Secretary of the National Universities Commission, Prof. Peter Okebukola. Only Covenant University ranked in Band A (801-1000). Band B (1001-1200) included Ahmadu Bello University, the University of Ibadan, Landmark University, and the University of Lagos. Bands C and D, comprising lower-ranked institutions, were filled mostly by federal and state universities struggling to maintain global relevance.
Prof. Idowu did not mince words, calling the rankings a “national shame” and criticizing stakeholders who celebrated the results. “It is demeaning that a private institution with no access to public funds, Covenant University, has emerged as the best in the country while first-generation federal universities like OAU now languish in Band D,” he lamented.
Dr. Ifeanyi Onyike, a senior lecturer at Dominican University, weighed in, calling for urgent policy reforms to uplift Nigeria’s educational system. He emphasized the need for the government to lead by example and recognize the value of Nigerian degrees over foreign certifications. Onyike also suggested that the government consider withdrawing from senior secondary and tertiary education altogether, citing its failure to address critical needs in these areas.
Dr. Oladipo Kolawole, a lecturer at Adeleke University and founder of Helix Biogen Institute, offered solutions for Nigerian universities to climb the global ranks. He recommended boosting research output, particularly in STEM and social sciences, as well as increasing international collaborations and exchanges. Adequate investment in modern education infrastructure, digital transformation, and a focus on specialized fields like agriculture and health sciences were also highlighted as crucial strategies.
Kolawole concluded that holistic implementation of these reforms could gradually enhance the global standing of Nigerian universities, restoring them to their former glory.
As the rankings continue to spark debate, the call for action is clear: Nigeria’s educational system is at a crossroads, and only bold, visionary reforms can steer it towards global competitiveness.
