Lagos State University has retained its position as Nigeria's most applied to University for the second consecutive year, recording 84,326 first choice applications in the latest statistics released by the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board at the 2026 JAMB Policy Meeting on Admissions in Abuja on Monday.

The figure places LASU ahead of the University of Lagos, which recorded 78,240 applications, and Obafemi Awolowo University with 60,370 applications.

In a statement issued on its official social media platforms, the University described the outcome as confirmation of its status as Nigeria's "University of First Choice," attributing the continued preference among students and parents to its academic excellence, stability, innovation, and student focused administration.

The institution traced its rise through the rankings in recent years, noting that it sat outside the top 10 most subscribed Universities before 2023, climbed to third position in 2023 with 55,000 applications, moved to second in 2024 with 62,601 applications, and claimed the top spot in 2025 with 70,000 applications before surpassing that figure in 2026.

Vice Chancellor Prof. Ibiyemi Olatunji Bello described the achievement as "a strong validation of the administration's vision to position LASU as a globally competitive institution driven by excellence, innovation, integrity, and impactful scholarship." She expressed appreciation to the Lagos State Government "for providing the leadership to keep the university in pride of place" and commended staff and students for consistently strengthening the university's reputation nationally and internationally.

Olatunji Bello reaffirmed the Institution's commitment to sustaining standards in teaching, research, community service, and human capital development, and assured prospective students that LASU would continue to offer industry relevant programmes and a transformative educational experience.

The university stated that its 2026 record "further consolidates the institution's place as one of the fastest rising Universities in Africa," crediting strategic investments in teaching, research, infrastructure, digital innovation, and global competitiveness for its upward trajectory.