Ahmadu Bello University (ABU) Tops Latest Times Higher Education University Rankings in Nigeria

Ahmadu Bello University (ABU), Zaria, has been recognized as the best university in Nigeria, according to the latest Times Higher Education (THE) Sub-Saharan Africa University Rankings for 2024.

The prestigious ranking, which assesses universities across the region based on their impact in addressing key challenges, placed ABU as the top Nigerian institution. The university was ranked 21st in Africa, reflecting its growing influence in academic and research excellence.

The Times Higher Education Sub-Saharan Africa University Rankings for 2024 evaluated a total of 129 universities from 22 countries. ABU’s outstanding performance in the region came just behind the American University of Nigeria, Yola, which outshone ABU by a narrow margin.

South Africa led the rankings, with the University of Johannesburg securing the top spot in the region. The country claimed four positions in the top 10, including the coveted top three places. Ghana also made significant strides, with the University of Ghana rising to fifth place. Rwanda's University of Global Health Equity (UGHE) also saw a remarkable improvement, climbing to fourth place, thanks to its top performance in the student engagement pillar.

This year’s rankings were developed using a unique methodology that specifically measures the contributions of universities in tackling some of the most pressing challenges faced by the region, including education accessibility, research impact, and student engagement.

ABU’s rise in the rankings highlights its ongoing commitment to academic excellence and its role in shaping Nigeria’s higher education landscape. The university's performance also reinforces its position as a key player in Sub-Saharan Africa's educational development.