As competition in Nigeria’s higher education sector continues to rise, the AD Scientific Index 2026 offers a clear view of private universities excelling in research productivity and academic influence.
Private institutions dominate the sector, accounting for over 53 percent of all university ownership among the country’s 159 accredited universities. Experts attribute this growth to private investment, improved infrastructure, and a focus on science and technology, which has also helped some Nigerian private universities gain global recognition.
The AD Scientific Index 2026 evaluates universities based on metrics such as H-index, citations, and research impact. According to the latest ranking, the following institutions stand out among Nigeria’s private universities:
Covenant University
Founded in 2002 by the Living Faith (Winners) Church in Ota, Ogun State, Covenant University is a faith-based institution renowned for research, innovation, and leadership development. It ranks 1,857 globally, 36 in Africa, and third in Nigeria.
Afe Babalola University (ABUAD)
Established in 2009 by legal luminary Afe Babalola in Ado-Ekiti, Ekiti State, ABUAD emphasizes academic excellence and infrastructure development. It operates across multiple colleges, including law, medicine, and engineering. The AD Scientific Index ranks it 2,631 in the world, 112 in Africa, and 18 in Nigeria.
Maryam Abacha American University of Nigeria (MAAUN)
Founded in 2021 in Kano, MAAUN focuses on global-standard education with programmes in law, business, social sciences, and health. It ranks 2,948 globally, 131 in Africa, and 19 in Nigeria.
Redeemer’s University of Nigeria (RUN)
RUN, established in 2005 by the Redeemed Christian Church of God in Ede, Osun State, is recognized for research in science and public health and maintains a structured academic environment. It ranks 3,007 in the world, 136 in Africa, and 20 in Nigeria.
Bowen University
Founded in 2001 by the Nigerian Baptist Convention in Iwo, Osun State, Bowen integrates academic learning with moral and religious values. It ranks 3,070 globally, 140 in Africa, and 21 in Nigeria.
Landmark University
Established in 2011 in Omu-Aran, Kwara State, Landmark University emphasizes agriculture, science, and technology, aiming to advance food security and innovation. Its ranking is 3,121 globally, 143 in Africa, and 22 in Nigeria.
Babcock University
Owned by the Seventh-day Adventist Church and founded in 1959 in Ilishan-Remo, Ogun State, Babcock offers programmes in medicine, law, and social sciences, with strong academic discipline. It ranks 3,605 globally, 180 in Africa, and 31 in Nigeria.
African University of Science and Technology (AUST)
Located in Abuja and founded in 2007, AUST focuses on postgraduate education in science, engineering, and technology. The university is ranked 4,177 globally, 205 in Africa, and 38 in Nigeria.
Bells University of Technology
Founded in 2005 by former President Olusegun Obasanjo in Ota, Ogun State, Bells University specializes in engineering, environmental sciences, and technology-driven programmes. It ranks 4,690 globally, 234 in Africa, and 46 in Nigeria.
Augustine University
Established in 2015 in Ilara, Epe, Lagos State, Augustine University emphasizes character development alongside academic disciplines such as humanities, sciences, and management. Its ranking is 4,967 globally, 258 in Africa, and 54 in Nigeria.
These rankings underscore the increasing role of private universities in Nigeria’s academic landscape and their rising presence on the global research stage.
