New global university assessments have highlighted the rising profile of higher institutions across West Africa, as universities in the region continue to gain recognition for research output, academic quality, and innovation.
The latest evaluation released under the Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2026 reviewed 2,191 universities spread across 115 countries and territories. The report indicates that several West African institutions are strengthening their global standing through research influence and international collaboration.
At the top of the regional list is the University of Cape Coast, Ghana, which emerged as the highest-ranked university in both Ghana and West Africa. The institution is also placed among the top five universities on the African continent, with strong ratings linked to research impact and academic performance.
Nigeria’s University of Ibadan, established in 1932, secured the second position in West Africa. The university has maintained a longstanding reputation as one of Africa’s foremost research centres since gaining full independence from the University of London in 1962.
Also ranking prominently is the University of Lagos, founded in 1962, which offers programmes across numerous disciplines including engineering, law, sciences, and social sciences.
Bayero University Kano placed among the leading institutions in the sub-region, supported by its specialised research centres such as those focusing on infectious diseases and population health.
Private universities also featured on the list. Covenant University, founded in 2002, was recognised for its emphasis on leadership and applied learning, while Landmark University, established in 2011, earned a place for its focus on agriculture and entrepreneurship development.
Ghana’s University of Ghana, the country’s oldest public university, also made the ranking. The institution operates a collegiate academic system and runs specialised programmes including nuclear sciences.
Other Nigerian universities listed include Ahmadu Bello University, founded in 1962; the Federal University of Technology, Minna, created in 1983 to advance technological education; and Ghana’s Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, originally established as Kumasi College of Technology in 1951 and widely known for science and engineering training.
Globally, the rankings show that the University of Oxford retained the number one position for the tenth consecutive year, supported by its strong research environment and academic output.
The latest results reflect the growing contribution of West African universities to international research, science, health, and development discussions, as institutions in the region continue to expand their academic influence.
