This is the most comprehensive list of the best public universities in Southern Nigeria in 2024. And, It is based on academic reputation, program offerings, and quality, research output, and student life.
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Top 10 Public Universities In Southern Nigeria
University | State | Type | Year of Establishment |
|---|---|---|---|
University of Port Harcourt (UNIPORT) | Rivers | Public | 1975 |
Federal University of Technology, Owerri (FUTO) | Imo | Public | 1976 |
University of Benin (UNIBEN) | Edo | Public | 1970 |
Rivers State University (RSUST) | Rivers | Public | 1975 |
Delta State University (DELSU) | Delta | Public | 1991 |
University of Uyo (UNIUYO) | Akwa Ibom | Public | 1975 |
Akwa Ibom State University (AKSU) | Akwa Ibom | Public | 1991 |
Federal University of Technology, Minna (FUTMINNA) | Niger | Public | 1975 |
Cross River University of Technology (CRUTECH) | Cross River | Public | 1996 |
Bayelsa State University (BSU) | Bayelsa | Public | 1996 |
1. University of Port Harcourt (UNIPORT)
The University of Port Harcourt (UNIPORT), established in 1975, is a top public university in Rivers State, Nigeria. Initially called University College, Port Harcourt, it became a full university in 1977.
With over 50,000 students, UNIPORT is known for its programs in Petroleum Engineering. UNIPORT is highly ranked both in Nigeria and Africa.
According to uniRank, it is the top university in Nigeria and 19th in Africa. Webometric also ranks it fourth in Nigeria for its openness and excellence.
However, the university has different undergraduate and postgraduate programs in humanities, sciences, engineering, and health sciences. Its notable alumni include former President Goodluck Jonathan and Minister Rotimi Amaechi.
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2. Federal University of Technology, Owerri (FUTO)
The Federal University of Technology, Owerri (FUTO) is a top university in Imo State, Nigeria. It was established in 1980 and is recognized as one of the best technology-focused schools in the country, especially in the southeastern and southern regions.
The university offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs across different fields, such as agriculture, engineering, science, health, and technology.
It provides over 64 undergraduate programs, including popular courses like Petroleum Engineering, Computer Science, and Biomedical Engineering.
FUTO works with national and international partners to strengthen its educational and research opportunities. It also includes entrepreneurship training in its curriculum to help students succeed in the modern workforce.
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3. University of Benin (UNIBEN)
The University of Benin (UNIBEN), established in 1970, is one of Nigeria’s top federal universities, located in Benin City, Edo State.
Known for its dedication to academic excellence, the university has lots of undergraduate and postgraduate programs In different fields. However, UNIBEN is made up of fifteen faculties, including Agriculture, Law, Medicine, Engineering, and the Arts.
The university has a strong reputation both in Nigeria and internationally, with many of its graduates excelling in government, industry, and education. Its programs in Law, Medicine, and Engineering are popular, attracting students from all over the country.
In addition to academics, UNIBEN provides students with a lively campus life. With cultural events, sports, and academic contests, students enjoy a rich and well-rounded experience.
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4. Rivers State University (RSUST)
Rivers State University (RSU), formerly Rivers State University of Science and Technology (RSUST), is a leading institution in Port Harcourt, Nigeria.
It started in 1972 as a college and became a full university in 1980. RSU offers many undergraduate and postgraduate programs in Engineering, Law, Agriculture, and Social Sciences.
One of its standout programs is Marine Engineering. Known for its active campus life, RSU also plays a big part in research, especially in areas important to Nigeria’s economy, such as oil and gas engineering.
RSU has modern facilities like laboratories, libraries, and recreational spaces. Over the years, it has produced successful alumni, including Senator Magnus Abe and actress Tonto Dikeh.
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5. Delta State University (DELSU)
Delta State University, Abraka (DELSU) is a state-owned university in Nigeria, founded in 2002. It is located in Abraka, Delta State, with another campus in Oleh.
The university provides a range of academic programs, including full-time and part-time undergraduate degrees and postgraduate studies up to the doctoral level.
With a student population of about 22,000, DELSU continues to grow as a hub for higher learning. It has several faculties like Arts, Sciences, Education, Social Sciences, and Management Sciences.
DELSU is equipped with modern facilities to improve students’ learning experiences. Its new ultra-modern library can seat 4,500 students and includes spaces for relaxation and charging stations.
The university also offers student accommodation with different halls of residence. Focused on research, DELSU partners with different organizations to tackle local and global challenges.
It has also created research centers in neuroscience. Under the leadership of Vice-Chancellor Prof. Andy O. Egwunyenga DELSU is gaining recognition both nationally and internationally.
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6. University of Uyo (UNIUYO)
The University of Uyo (UNIUYO) is a federal university located in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria. It was established in 1991 after changing from the University of Cross River State.
Since then, it has grown to be one of Nigeria’s top-ranking universities In Nigeria. UNIUYO provides over 100 undergraduate and postgraduate courses, covering many fields such as agriculture, engineering, medicine, law, business, and the arts.
The university is accredited by the National Universities Commission (NUC) to ensure that its programs meet national standards.
Students at UNIUYO enjoy modern facilities, including libraries, labs, and recreational centers, which support their academic and personal growth.
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7. Akwa Ibom State University (AKSU)
Akwa Ibom State University (AKSU) is a public university located in Ikot Akpaden, Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria. Established in 2009, the university began as a school focused on technology but has now expanded into a multi-campus institution.
Its main campus is in Ikot Akpaden, with another campus in Obio Akpa. AKSU has a variety of academic programs across eight faculties, such as Agriculture, Arts, and Engineering.
The university has 45 undergraduate and 78 postgraduate programs. Admission is moderately selective, with an acceptance rate of about 60-69%, welcoming both local and international students.
The National Universities Commission of Nigeria recognizes the university and has made progress in research and innovation. Students benefit from a range of facilities like libraries, housing, sports, and financial aid.
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8. Federal University of Technology, Minna (FUTMINNA)
The Federal University of Technology, Minna (FUTMINNA), was established in 2004 and is located in Niger State, Nigeria. It is one of the best universities In southern Nigeria.
The university provides different undergraduate and postgraduate programs In agriculture, science, engineering, and technology.
Some of its popular courses include civil, electrical, mechanical, and petroleum engineering, as well as agricultural economics, biochemistry, and cybersecurity science.
FUTMINNA is recognized for its commitment to academic excellence and research. It is accredited by the National Universities Commission (NUC) and has built a strong reputation for quality education.
The university has introduced modern programs like forensic science and data science to meet today’s educational demands.
In addition to academics, the university is home to several research centers focused on areas like genetic engineering and disaster risk management. This helps students get hands-on experience while contributing to the nation’s development.
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9. Cross River University of Technology (CRUTECH)
The Cross River University of Technology, now called the University of Cross River State (UNICROSS), was founded in 2002 and is based in Calabar, Cross River State, Nigeria.
The university was created by merging three institutions: the Polytechnic, Calabar; the College of Education, Akamkpa; and the Ibrahim Babangida College of Agriculture, Ovonum.
This merger allowed the school to offer more than just technology-focused programs. UNICROSS operates on different campuses, with the main one in Calabar.
It has different courses, including engineering, science, environmental sciences, and business administration. The university also has campuses in Ogoja, Okuku, and Obubra.
UNICROSS is known for its dedication to quality education and practical training, ranking as the 7th best university in Nigeria and 37th in Sub-Saharan Africa by Times Higher Education.
While UNICROSS provides strong practical education, especially in engineering, it has faced some issues, including student concerns about management and financial practices. However, many students appreciate the hands-on training they receive, which prepares them well for their careers.
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10. Bayelsa Medical University (BMU)
Bayelsa Medical University (BMU) is a public university located in Yenagoa, Bayelsa State, Nigeria. It was founded in August 2018 by the Bayelsa State Government to improve medical education and train skilled healthcare professionals.
BMU is the 48th state university in Nigeria and the second public medical university in the country. The National Universities Commission (NUC), which ensures that Nigerian universities meet educational standards, approved BMU.
This approval shows the government’s dedication to providing high-quality education in medicine and health sciences.
BMU provides different undergraduate programs in Medicine and Surgery, Nursing, Optometry, Physiotherapy, Medical Laboratory Science, and Public Health.
The university focuses on both theoretical learning and practical training to prepare students for successful medical careers.