Nigeria's private universities are making significant strides on the global academic stage, according to the latest authoritative ranking. The newly released 2026 AD Scientific Index has placed several private institutions on an impressive upward trajectory, highlighting their growing contribution to national and international research.
Covenant University Tops the Chart Again
The data confirms Covenant University in Ota as the undisputed leader among Nigeria's private higher education institutions. It not only secured the number one spot nationally but also achieved a remarkable 221st position in the global ranking. This achievement is largely attributed to the outstanding performance of its researchers, many of whom are now ranked within the top global percentile.
University officials credit this sustained excellence to continued strategic investment in key areas, particularly in engineering and technology programmes, which are shaping the institution's influence and output.
Newcomers and Rapid Climbers
One of the most notable stories from the ranking is the rapid ascent of the Maryam Abacha American University of Nigeria (MAAUN) in Kano. Established just in 2021, the university has secured the second position in the national private university rankings. Its swift rise is powered by aggressive faculty recruitment, the establishment of new academic centres, and a deliberate expansion of its postgraduate programme offerings.
The report, which also evaluates research institutes and teaching hospitals, indicates that private universities are increasingly driving Nigeria's scientific productivity. This is happening even as many public institutions grapple with well-documented funding and operational challenges.
The Expanding Private University Landscape
Nigeria's higher education ecosystem now comprises 310 universities in total, with 124 being privately owned. The ranking suggests these private institutions are strengthening their research relevance through improved output, competitive staffing, and expanded laboratory capacity.
Other private universities that made notable appearances in the top tier include:
- Afe Babalola University in Ado Ekiti, recognized for its strong postgraduate and laboratory programmes.
- Redeemer's University in Ede.
- Bowen University in Iwo.
These schools are consistently building modern research facilities and forging international partnerships that support advanced training and innovation.
The full list of the top 10 best private Nigerian universities according to the 2026 AD Scientific Index is:
- Covenant University
- Maryam Abacha American University of Nigeria (MAAUN)
- Afe Babalola University
- Redeemer's University
- Bowen University
- Landmark University
- Bells University of Technology
- African University of Science and Technology
- Babcock University
- Augustine University Ilara Epe
This ranking comes on the heels of another major milestone for Covenant University, which was recently placed first in Africa and 49th globally in the 2026 Times Higher Education Interdisciplinary Science Rankings. These consecutive accolades underscore a dynamic shift, where private universities are expanding Nigeria's research footprint and gaining renewed visibility for their academic performance.
