FCT Abuja's Higher Education Landscape: 19 Universities in 2026
As of February 2026, the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) in Nigeria boasts a total of 19 universities, reflecting a diverse mix of federal and private institutions that contribute to the nation's educational framework. This count positions Abuja as a significant hub for tertiary education within Nigeria's broader academic network.
Breakdown of Universities in the Federal Capital Territory
The 19 universities in the FCT are distributed as follows: 4 are federal universities, while 15 operate as private institutions. This composition highlights the growing role of private sector investment in higher education, alongside federal government initiatives aimed at expanding access to quality learning opportunities.
Notably, the University of Abuja, located in Gwagwalada, has been renamed Yakubu Gowon University. This change was implemented by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to honor Nigeria's former head of state, Yakubu Gowon, recognizing his contributions to the nation's development. The renaming underscores the importance of historical figures in shaping Nigeria's educational and cultural heritage.
List of Universities in Abuja as of February 2026
- National Open University of Nigeria
- Yakubu Gowon University (formerly University of Abuja, Gwagwalada)
- African Aviation and Aerospace University
- National University of Science and Technology
- African University of Science and Technology
- Veritas University
- Nile University of Nigeria
- Baze University
- Philomath University, Kuje
- Canadian University of Nigeria
- Amaj University, Kwali
- Cosmopolitan University
- Miva Open University
- Al-Muhibbah Open University
- Prime University, Kuje
- European University of Nigeria, Duboyi
- African University of Economics
- Eranova University
- Leadership University
Context Within Nigeria's Higher Education System
The FCT's 19 universities are part of Nigeria's total of 309 universities, which are spread across the 36 states and the capital. This nationwide distribution aims to enhance educational accessibility and promote regional development. In 2025, the National Universities Commission (NUC) approved 33 new universities, further expanding the country's higher education infrastructure to cater to the growing youth population.
Among the states, Ogun State leads with 24 universities, demonstrating its prominence in Nigeria's educational sector. The FCT, with its 19 institutions, plays a crucial role in this landscape, offering diverse academic programs and research opportunities.
Administrative Structure of the Federal Capital Territory
The FCT is organized into six Area Councils, which serve as the local government framework for the nation's capital. These councils include:
- Abuja Municipal Area Council (AMAC)
- Kuje
- Bwari
- Gwagwalada
- Kwali
- Abaji
This administrative division supports the governance and development of educational institutions within the territory, ensuring that resources are allocated effectively to meet the needs of students and communities.
Public Reactions and Future Prospects
Public discourse surrounding Nigeria's universities often centers on concerns about admission processes and job prospects for graduates. As the number of institutions grows, stakeholders emphasize the importance of maintaining educational quality and aligning curricula with market demands to improve employment outcomes.
The expansion of universities, including those in the FCT, is seen as a positive step toward addressing these challenges, providing more opportunities for Nigerian youths to pursue higher education and contribute to the nation's socio-economic development.
