Private universities are becoming key players in Nigeria’s higher education space. Many of them now compete strongly in research, innovation, and academic output.
This growth is driven by private investment, improved infrastructure, and a focus on science and technology. As a result, some Nigerian private universities are gaining recognition both in Africa and globally.
According to the AD Scientific Index 2026, which ranks institutions based on H-index, citations, and research impact, several Nigerian private universities have secured top positions.
Here are the top-ranking private universities in Nigeria based on global and African performance.
Covenant University
Covenant University is a private institution located in Ota, Ogun State, founded by Bishop David Oyedepo in 2002.
It is owned by Living Faith Church Worldwide and operates from its campus in Canaanland. The university is known for its focus on research, innovation, and leadership development.
According to the AD Scientific Index 2026, Covenant University ranks 1,857 in the world, 36 in Africa, and 3 in Nigeria.
Afe Babalola University (ABUAD)
Afe Babalola University is located in Ado-Ekiti, Ekiti State, and was founded in 2009 by Aare Afe Babalola, SAN.
The university has grown rapidly, with emphasis on academic excellence and infrastructure development. It operates across multiple colleges, including law, medicine, and engineering.
ABUAD ranks 2,631 in the world, 112 in Africa, and 18 in Nigeria, placing it among the top private universities in the country.
Maryam Abacha American University of Nigeria (MAAUN)
Maryam Abacha American University of Nigeria is located in Kano and was established in 2021.
The university operates as a private institution focused on global-standard education, with programmes in law, business, social sciences, and health.
According to the ranking, MAAUN is placed 2,948 globally, 131 in Africa, and 19 in Nigeria, making it one of the fastest-rising private universities.
Redeemer’s University
Redeemer’s University is a private institution located in Ede, Osun State, founded in 2005 by the Redeemed Christian Church of God.
The university is known for its focus on research, particularly in science and public health, as well as its structured academic environment.
It ranks 3,007 in the world, 136 in Africa, and 20 in Nigeria.
Bowen University
Bowen University is located in Iwo, Osun State, and was established in 2001 by the Nigerian Baptist Convention.
The institution combines academic learning with strong moral and religious values, offering programmes across various disciplines.
It ranks 3,070 globally, 140 in Africa, and 21 in Nigeria.
Landmark University
Landmark University is a private institution located in Omu-Aran, Kwara State, founded in 2011.
The university focuses on agriculture, science, and technology, with a mission to drive food security and innovation in Nigeria.
It ranks 3,121 in the world, 143 in Africa, and 22 in Nigeria.
Babcock University
Babcock University is located in Ilishan-Remo, Ogun State, and was established in 1959 as a faith-based institution owned by the Seventh-day Adventist Church.
It offers programmes across medicine, law, and social sciences, with a strong emphasis on discipline and academic structure.
Babcock ranks 3,605 globally, 180 in Africa, and 31 in Nigeria.
African University of Science and Technology
The African University of Science and Technology is located in Abuja and was founded in 2007.
It focuses mainly on postgraduate education in science, engineering, and technology, with a strong research orientation.
The university ranks 4,177 in the world, 205 in Africa, and 38 in Nigeria.
Bells University of Technology
Bells University of Technology is located in Ota, Ogun State, and was established in 2005.
The university specialises in engineering, environmental sciences, and technology-driven programmes.
It ranks 4,690 globally, 234 in Africa, and 46 in Nigeria.
Augustine University
Augustine University is located in Ilara, Epe, Lagos State, and was founded in 2015.
The institution offers programmes in humanities, sciences, and management, with a focus on character development and academic discipline.
It ranks 4,967 in the world, 258 in Africa, and 54 in Nigeria.
