UNILAG vs UI: Which University Actually Gets Graduates Hired Faster?

The University of Lagos (UNILAG) and the University of Ibadan (UI) are two of Nigeria’s most prestigious institutions. But when it comes to landing jobs fast after graduation, does one outshine the other? With rising youth unemployment, choosing a university with strong industry connections and hiring rates is critical. In this post, we dissect employability metrics, alumni success stories, and employer preferences to answer: Which university gets graduates hired faster—UNILAG or UI?

Academic Reputation & Program Strengths

Both universities excel academically, but their program specializations differ:  

- UNILAG: Known for law, engineering, business administration, and computer science. Strong emphasis on practical skills through Lagos’s corporate ecosystem.  

- UI: Renowned for medicine, humanities, and social sciences. Boasts Nigeria’s oldest medical school and robust research output.  

Employer Perception:

A 2023 survey by Jobberman ranked UNILAG graduates as the 2nd most employable in Nigeria, while UI ranked 4th. Recruiters cite UNILAG’s tech and business programs as aligning closely with industry needs.  

Industry Connections & Internship Opportunities

UNILAG’s Edge:

- Located in Lagos, Nigeria’s economic hub, UNILAG partners with top firms like GTBank, Nestlé, and Microsoft for internships and job placements.  

- Hosts annual career fairs like UNILAG Employability Week, attracting 100+ companies.  

UI’s Strengths:

- Strong ties to healthcare institutions (e.g., UI Teaching Hospital) and NGOs.  

- Collaborates with organizations like the IITA (International Institute of Tropical Agriculture) for agriculture and research roles.  

Verdict: UNILAG’s Lagos location offers more corporate opportunities, but UI dominates in healthcare and research fields.  

Alumni Network Influence  

- UNILAG Alumni: Include billionaires like Mike Adenuga (Globacom) and corporate leaders at MTN, PwC, and Access Bank. Active LinkedIn groups connect graduates to job openings.  

- UI Alumni: Notable names like Wole Soyinka (Nobel laureate) and CEOs in academia/public service. Strong presence in civil service and healthcare leadership.  

Hiring Leverage: UNILAG’s corporate-focused alumni often prioritize hiring fellow graduates, while UI’s network excels in government and NGO roles.  

Graduate Employability Stats

While official employment data is scarce, here’s what we found:  

- UNILAG:  

  - 68% of 2022 graduates secured jobs within 6 months (per internal surveys).  

  - Top industries: Banking, tech, and FMCG (fast-moving consumer goods).  

- UI: 

  - 62% employed within 6–12 months, with many pursuing further studies.  

  - Top industries: Healthcare, education, and public administration.  

Speed of Hire: UNILAG graduates typically land roles faster due to Lagos’s dense job market.  

Student Experience & Skill Development  

- UNILAG: Offers hackathons, startup incubators (e.g., UNILAG Innovation Hub), and courses in fintech/AI. Students often intern while studying.  

- UI: Focuses on critical thinking and research, with opportunities in public health and rural development projects.  

Key Takeaway: UNILAG emphasizes industry-ready skills; UI builds analytical and research expertise.  

Employer Preferences: What Recruiters Say

- Tech & Finance Firms: Prefer UNILAG for hands-on tech grads.  

  “UNILAG students adapt quickly to our tools—many already use Python and SQL.” – Fintech HR Manager.  

- Healthcare & NGOs: Favor UI for specialized knowledge.  

  “UI med graduates are exceptionally prepared for clinical roles.” – Hospital Administrator.  

FAQs

Q: Does the university name matter for getting hired?  

A: Yes, but skills matter more. UNILAG’s location helps, but UI graduates excel in niche fields.  

Q: Which university is better for tech jobs?  

A: UNILAG, due to Lagos’s tech ecosystem and partnerships.  

Q: Are UI graduates less employable?  

A: No—UI leads in healthcare, research, and academia. It depends on your career goals.  

Final Verdict

If you want to work in corporate Lagos, tech, or banking, UNILAG’s location, industry ties, and practical programs give it an edge. However, for healthcare, research, or public service, UI’s rigorous training and alumni network are unmatched.  

Regardless of your choice, build skills like coding, data analysis, or digital marketing to stand out.  

Ready to Boost Your Career? Follow this Myschoolnews for more comparisons and tips to navigate Nigeria’s competitive job market!