By Adrianna Simwa Bayo Olupohunda Jackline Wangare Sharon Boit
Nigeria’s education sector has grown over the years, with private and religious groups now owning universities. This has led to many beautiful campuses. The University of Ibadan is often considered the most beautiful university in Nigeria. Others are Covenant and Landmark Universities. They are known for their unique features, setting them apart from the rest.
Key takeaways
Many Nigerian universities are known for their impressive architecture and serene campuses.Obafemi Awolowo University, University of Ibadan and University of Lagos are often referred to as the most beautiful universities in Nigeria.Private institutions like Covenant and Landmark also stand out for their modern and well-maintained environments.
Which is the most beautiful university in Nigeria?
Nigeria is home to many universities with stunning campuses. From modern designs to natural landscapes, these schools offer beauty alongside learning. Here is a look at the top 10 most beautiful universities in Nigeria, known for their top architecture and lush gardens.
Some of the most beautiful campuses in Nigeria are built on large tracts of land, some against picturesque backdrops of mountains, hills, and rolling plains. Explore them here.
10. Landmark University
State: KwaraFounded in: 2011World ranking 2025: 5,447
Landmark University is a private Christian university affiliated with the Living Faith Church Worldwide. It is located in Omu-Aran, Kwara State. In 2014, the institution was featured among the top five institutions of higher learning in the country by Webometrics.
Landmark University is also considered one of the most beautiful universities in Nigeria due to its well-planned layout and clean, green environment. The campus features modern architectural designs, wide walkways, and neatly maintained gardens that create a peaceful atmosphere for learning.
9. Federal University of Technology Akure
State: OndoFounded in: 1981World ranking 2025: 3,099
The Federal University of Technology Akure (FUTA) was founded in 1981. It was part of a government plan to create technology-focused institutions. These schools were meant to produce graduates with both practical and theoretical knowledge.
Federal University of Technology Akure (FUTA) is known for its scenic campus. The Nigerian university has modern buildings and wide green lawns. The layout is neat and well-organized. Trees line the paths, creating a calm atmosphere. Overall, it combines technology and nature beautifully.
8. Ahmadu Bello University
State: KadunaFounded in: 1962World ranking 2025: 2,130
Ahmadu Bello University Zaria is a federal government research university in Zaria, Kaduna State. The institution was founded on 4th October 1962 as the pioneer tertiary institution in Northern Nigeria. It was named after Alhaji Sir Ahmadu Bello, the very first premier of Northern Nigeria.
7. University of Port Harcourt
State: RiversFounded in: 1975World ranking 2025: 1,667
UniPort was founded in 1975 and is located in Choba, Port Harcourt, Rivers State. The institution achieved university status in 1977 and has since become one of the top Nigerian institutions of higher learning.
The University of Port Harcourt stands out as one of Nigeria’s most beautiful campuses. It sits amid lush greenery and mangrove scenery, offering a scenic escape from city life. The campus features clean, well‑planned infrastructure and modern lecture halls.
6. Obafemi Awolowo University
State: OsunFounded in: 1961World ranking 2025: 1,658
Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU) is a federal government-owned university located in the ancient city of Ile-Ife, Osun State. The institution was founded in 1961 and welcomed its first batch of students in 1962. The institution’s name is in honour of Obafemi Awolowo (1909–1987).
Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU) in Ile-Ife is widely praised for its striking beauty. The campus features bold modernist buildings. These were designed by Bauhaus-trained architect Arieh Sharon and include upside-down pyramids built for cooling and airflow.
5. University of Nigeria, Nsukka
State: EnuguFounded in: 1955World ranking 2025: 1,520
The University of Nigeria, commonly known as UNN, is a federal university located in Nsukka, Enugu State. The institution was founded by Azikiwe Nnamdi in 1955 and was formally opened in 1960.
The institution became one of the first Nigerian higher learning institutions modelled on the American education system. UNN’s vast campus grounds are well-maintained and landscaped, making it among the top 10 most beautiful federal universities in Nigeria.
4. University of Ilorin
State: KwaraFounded in: 1975World ranking 2025: 2,516
The University of Ilorin, commonly known as Unilorin, is a government-owned institution in Ilorin, Kwara State. It was established by military decree in 1975. The institution has one of the largest tracts of land amongst government-owned institutions in Nigeria. It sits on a whopping 15,000 hectares.
Its exquisite landscaping ranks Unilorin among the top 10 most beautiful state universities in Nigeria.
3. Covenant University
State: OgunFounded in: 2002World ranking 2025: 2,248
Covenant University (CU) is a private Christian institution located in Ota, Ogun State, Nigeria. It was founded in 2002 and is among the youngest Nigerian top higher learning institutions.
The institution is affiliated with the Living Faith Church Worldwide and became the country’s first institution to make the top 500 worldwide university ranking in 2019. Covenant University is often featured as one of the top universities in Nigeria.
2. University of Lagos
State: LagosFounded in: 1962World ranking 2025: 1,383
The University of Lagos, commonly known as UNILAG, is a public research institution. UNILAG was among the first-generation universities in Nigeria and is ranked among the top universities in Africa in major education publications.
UNILAG has three campuses in the Lagos mainland. Besides ranking high in Nigeria, UNILAG is also considered one of the most beautiful universities in Africa.
1. University of Ibadan
State: OyoFounded in: 1948World ranking 2025: 1,006
Which is the most beautiful federal university in Nigeria? The answer is the University of Ibadan, commonly abbreviated as UI. It is arguably the finest university in Nigeria. It is a public research institution located in Ibadan, Oyo State.
In 1962, UI became Nigeria’s first independent degree-awarding university. The institution has played a huge role in the country’s education sector and its economic progress. The University of Ibadan has some of the most beautiful campuses in Nigeria.
What are the top 20 most beautiful universities in Nigeria?
Here is a list of the top 20 most beautiful universities in Nigeria, combining impressive architecture, serene landscapes, and well-maintained campuses.
University of IbadanUniversity of Lagos Covenant UniversityUniversity of IlorinUniversity of Nigeria, NsukkaObafemi Awolowo University University of Port HarcourtAhmadu Bello UniversityFederal University of Technology AkureLandmark UniversityBabcock UniversityAfe Babalola University (ABUAD)University of Benin (UNIBEN)Redeemer’s UniversityBayero University Kano (BUK)American University of Nigeria (AUN)Bowen UniversityFederal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta (FUNAAB)University of Calabar (UNICAL)Nile University of Nigeria
Top 10 most beautiful universities in Africa
Africa is home to many universities that combine academic excellence with stunning natural landscapes and impressive architecture. The following list highlights ten of the most beautiful universities on the continent, where learning meets visual inspiration.
The University of Cape Town, South Africa Stellenbosch University, South AfricaThe University of Pretoria, South AfricaGaston Berger University, SenegalUniversity of Ghana, GhanaObafemi Awolowo University, NigeriaThe University of Lagos, NigeriaAhmadu Bello University, NigeriaUganda Christian University, UgandaCovenant University, Nigeria
What is the most beautiful university in the world?
Choosing the most beautiful university is subjective. Beauty means different things to different people. Still, some universities often appear in lists of the most stunning campuses. According to Expat Explore, the University of Cambridge in England stands out. It is known for its English Gothic architecture and scenic views.
Which university has the most beautiful campus in Nigeria?
The University of Ibadan is in Ibadan, Nigeria. It is often praised for its peaceful and scenic campus. The school is known for its historic buildings and green environment.
What is the number 1 best university in Nigeria?
Covenant University is often seen as the best university in Nigeria. It has ranked high in many reports. In the Times Higher Education 2025 rankings, it took the top spot.
What is the most peaceful university in Nigeria?
Usmanu Danfodiyo University, Sokoto (UDUS) is known as the most peaceful university in Nigeria. It is praised for its strong discipline. The school enforces strict rules on student behavior. It also has zero tolerance for violence or misconduct.
What is the name of the richest university in Nigeria?
Wigwe University is the richest university in Nigeria. It is a new private school in Isiokpo, Rivers State. It has the highest tuition fees in the country. Fees can go up to N12 million per session.
Which university has the best building in Nigeria?
Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU) is in Ile-Ife. It is known for having the most beautiful campus in Nigeria. The buildings are seen as architectural masterpieces. The design blends modern and historical styles. Its wide, green grounds add to its appeal.
What is the most respected university in Nigeria?
Covenant University is often seen as the most respected university in Nigeria. Many sources support this view. It ranks high both nationally and internationally. The school is known for strong industry ties and a global outlook.
Have you been wondering about the most beautiful university in Nigeria? This guide has everything you need to know. While the country has numerous universities, the ten listed in this guide are inarguably the most picturesque.
Legit.ng recently published an article about the largest universities in Nigeria. The country is renowned for its vibrant economy and numerous educational institutions. These universities vary greatly in size, student population, and courses offered.
Which are the largest institutions of higher education in Nigeria, how big are they, and what are they best known for?
Source: Legit.ng