This article offers an in-depth look at the top 9 universities in Southern Nigeria, highlighting their locations, types, and the notable programs they provide. These institutions are renowned for their academic excellence and contributions to various fields of study.
Table of Contents:
| University | State | Type | Notable Programs |
|---|---|---|---|
| University of Port Harcourt (UNIPORT) | Rivers | Public | Petroleum Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Law, Medicine, Arts |
| Federal University of Technology, Owerri (FUTO) | Imo | Public | Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Civil Engineering, Computer Science, Agricultural Science |
| University of Benin (UNIBEN) | Edo | Public | Medicine, Law, Pharmacy, Engineering (various fields), Arts |
| Rivers State University (RSUST) | Rivers | Public | Petroleum Engineering, Environmental Science, Management Sciences, Education, Arts |
| Delta State University (DELSU) | Delta | Public | Law, Medicine, Engineering (various fields), Agriculture, Education |
| University of Uyo (UNIUYO) | Akwa Ibom | Public | Medicine, Law, Engineering (various fields), Agriculture, Education |
| Akwa Ibom State University (AKSU) | Akwa Ibom | Public | Medicine, Law, Engineering (various fields), Agriculture, Education |
| Cross River University of Technology (CRUTECH) | Cross River | Public | Engineering (various fields), Environmental Science, Agriculture, Management Sciences, Education |
| Bayelsa Medical University (BMU) | Bayelsa | Public | Medicine, Nursing, Public Health, Allied Health Sciences |
1. University Of Port Harcourt (UNIPORT)
The University of Port Harcourt (UNIPORT) is a leading public university in Southern Nigeria, situated in Port Harcourt, Rivers State. Established in 1975 as a university college, it gained full university status in 1977.
UNIPORT is renowned for its academic excellence and diverse student body, with enrollments ranging between 35,000 and 39,999 students. The university is organized into 14 faculties, including Humanities, Social Sciences, Engineering, Management Sciences, and Health Sciences.
In 1982, UNIPORT transitioned from a school-based to a faculty-based system, enhancing its academic structure. The urban campus, located in Aluu and Choba, is easily recognizable by its blue and white colors.
UNIPORT has achieved significant milestones in research and education, earning the title of Nigeria’s best university and ranking sixth in Africa by Times Higher Education in 2015. The university has produced numerous distinguished alumni and offers a wide array of academic programs.
Specialized education is provided in fields such as Clinical Sciences, Dentistry, Computing, and Engineering. UNIPORT also maintains affiliations with various institutions across Nigeria.
2. Federal University Of Technology, Owerri (FUTO)
The Federal University of Technology, Owerri (FUTO) is a premier institution for technological education in Southern Nigeria. Founded in 1980, it was among the first universities in Nigeria dedicated to technology.
FUTO emphasizes practical skills in engineering, agriculture, health, and information technology. It offers a variety of courses through schools like the School of Engineering and Engineering Technology, the School of Information and Communication Technology, and the School of Agriculture and Agricultural Technology.
Since its inception with 225 students and 60 staff, FUTO has grown significantly, now boasting over 25,000 students and more than 50 professors. It stands as one of the largest technological institutions in the region.
3. University Of Benin (UNIBEN)
The University of Benin (UNIBEN) is a top public university located in Benin City, Edo State. Established in 1970, it became a federal university in 1975.
UNIBEN offers a wide range of courses through its 15 faculties, including Medicine, Engineering, and Law. The university is also home to the University of Benin Teaching Hospital (UBTH), which provides practical training for medical students.
The university operates on two main campuses, Ugbowo and Ekehuan. The John Harris Library, the central library, is a vital resource with an extensive collection of books, journals, and digital materials.
UNIBEN is committed to delivering quality education, as reflected in its motto. With a student population exceeding 77,000, UNIBEN continues to expand its influence both nationally and internationally.
4. Rivers State University (RSUST)
Rivers State University (RSU), located in Port Harcourt, is a leading public university in Southern Nigeria. It was established in 1972 as a College of Science and Technology and gained university status in 1980.
Originally named Rivers State University of Science and Technology (RSUST), it was renamed Rivers State University in 2017. RSU offers a variety of academic programs, including the only accredited degree in Marine Engineering in Nigeria.
With a focus on science and technology, RSU has expanded its faculties and courses over the years. Key faculties include Engineering, Sciences, Law, Agriculture, Environmental Sciences, and Management Sciences.
The university’s urban location makes it accessible to students nationwide. RSU has produced notable alumni in politics, law, and entertainment, including Nyesom Wike, Tonto Dikeh, and Magnus Abe.
5. Delta State University (DELSU)
Delta State University (DELSU), located in Abraka, Delta State, is a prominent public university in Southern Nigeria. Founded in 1992, it has grown into a multi-campus institution with the main campus in Abraka and another in Oleh, about 52 km apart.
DELSU offers a wide range of academic programs, including undergraduate, postgraduate, and part-time studies. Degrees are available in fields such as Agriculture, Education, Arts, Sciences, Law, and Engineering.
The university is accredited by the National Universities Commission (NUC), ensuring it meets high academic standards. Facilities include well-equipped libraries, student hostels, and modern learning centers.
With over 22,000 students, DELSU is a vibrant academic community. It is also known for pioneering Nigeria’s first online student union election voting system.
6. University Of Uyo (UNIUYO)
The University of Uyo (UNIUYO) is a leading public university in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State. Originally known as the University of Cross River State, it has evolved from a Teacher’s College to a comprehensive university offering diverse academic programs.
With over 158,000 students, UNIUYO provides a dynamic learning environment. It has 13 faculties, including Agriculture, Arts, Law, Pharmacy, and Engineering, along with a School of Continuing Education and a Postgraduate School.
The university operates across four campuses, each dedicated to specific disciplines. UNIUYO boasts modern facilities, including a well-stocked library and UNIUYO FM, a campus radio station that engages students and the local community.
7. Akwa Ibom State University (AKSU)
Akwa Ibom State University (AKSU) is a public university in Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria. Established by the Akwa Ibom State Government, it admitted its first students in the 2010/2011 academic year. The university aims to address real development issues through knowledge and research.
Initially focused on technology, AKSU has expanded into a multi-campus institution. The main campus is at Ikot Akpaden in Mkpat Enin Local Government Area, with an additional campus in Abak, Oruk Anam Local Government Area.
AKSU offers programs in Engineering, Physical Sciences, Biological Sciences, Education, Agriculture, Social Sciences, Arts, and Management Sciences. The university supports staff development, with many faculty members receiving training abroad.
8. Cross River University Of Technology (CRUTECH)
Cross River University of Technology (CRUTECH), now known as the University of Cross River State (UNICROSS), is a prominent public university in Calabar, Cross River State. It operates across four campuses in Calabar, Obubra, Ogoja, and Okuku.
UNICROSS offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs. Faculties include Biological Sciences, Education, Engineering, Communication Technology, Environmental Science, Architecture, Physical Sciences, Management Sciences, and Basic Medical Sciences.
With approximately 18,915 students, UNICROSS provides a vibrant academic environment. The university is committed to offering quality education and fostering research and innovation.
9. Bayelsa Medical University (BMU)
Bayelsa Medical University (BMU), established in 2018, is a leading public university in Yenagoa, Bayelsa State. It focuses on training healthcare professionals and offers a variety of programs across multiple faculties.
BMU’s Faculty of Clinical Sciences provides degrees in Medicine and Surgery, as well as Dentistry. The university has received approval for its MBBS program, enabling students to take essential medical qualification exams.
The Faculty of Health Sciences offers programs in Nursing, Optometry, and Physiotherapy. Additional programs include Medical Laboratory Science, Public Health, and Health Care Administration. The Faculty of Basic Medical Sciences covers Human Anatomy and Biochemistry, while the Faculty of Sciences offers courses in Physics, Chemistry, and Biology.
