Nigeria's academic excellence has received international recognition as the University of Ibadan, University of Lagos, and Obafemi Awolowo University secured positions amongst the top 10 universities in West Africa for 2026.
The rankings, compiled by global assessment organisations including Times Higher Education (THE) and QS World University Rankings, evaluate institutions based on academic and employer reputation, faculty to student ratios, research citations, and international presence.
University of Cape Coast (Ghana) emerged as one of West Africa's premier institutions, featuring in the THE World University Rankings 2026 global 801–1000 bracket. Founded in 1962, the public collegiate university, located in Ghana's Central Region with a distinctive seafront campus overlooking the Atlantic Ocean, demonstrated exceptional performance in research quality and international outlook.
University of Ghana, Legon, established in 1948 as the University College of the Gold Coast, maintained its status as a leading research and teaching institution. The QS World University Rankings 2026 recognised the Accra based university for strong global outcomes, particularly in employment prospects and international research networks.
University of Ibadan (UI), Nigeria's oldest degree granting institution founded in 1948, achieved placement in the THE 2026 rankings' 801–1000 range. Originally known as University College Ibadan with affiliation to the University of London, it gained independence in 1962 and continues to lead in research excellence across multiple disciplines.
University of Lagos (UNILAG), established in 1962, recorded a significant milestone by securing a position in the 801–1000 bracket of THE 2026 rankings. The public research university remains amongst Nigeria's first generation universities and is consistently ranked among Africa's top institutions.
Cheikh Anta Diop University in Dakar, Senegal, made history by entering the THE rankings for the first time in 2026, marking a major achievement for Francophone West African academia. Founded in 1957, the university enrolls over 60,000 students.
Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST) in Ghana, which evolved from Kumasi College of Technology established in 1951 and officially opened in January 1952, maintains a growing reputation in STEM fields and research collaborations.
Obafemi Awolowo University, located in Ile-Ife, Osun State, commenced operations in October 1962 as the University of Ife. The institution remains widely respected for its programmes in engineering, law, humanities, and sciences.
Bayero University Kano demonstrated steady academic growth, securing placement within the 1001–1200 bracket in THE's 2026 rankings, reflecting particular strength in science and social sciences.
Covenant University, a private Christian institution founded in 2002 in Sango Ota, Ogun State, achieved global standing in the 1001–1200 range, driven by robust industry partnerships and research output.
University for Development Studies (Ghana) rounds out the top 10, recognised for its emphasis on community development, health sciences research, and innovation.
