The latest AD Scientific Index 2025 ranking has revealed the top 12 private universities in Nigeria, with Maryam Abacha American University of Nigeria (MAAUN), Kano, Afe Babalola University, Ado-Ekiti, and Redeemer’s University, Ede emerging as leaders in research output and scholarly impact.
The report, which evaluates universities based on the productivity and impact of their researchers, shows a growing competitive edge among Nigeria’s private institutions in Africa’s academic landscape.
MAAUN Tops the Chart:
Ranked second nationally among private universities (behind Covenant University, which retains the overall top spot), MAAUN secured an impressive 407th position globally.
The university boasts seven researchers in the global top 10%, and a total of 72 in the top 70% out of its 147 academic staff.
“This ranking reflects our investment in research infrastructure and our commitment to producing scholars who can compete globally,” Professor Gwarzo told Premium Times. “Our goal has always been to create an environment where Nigerian academics can stand shoulder-to-shoulder with their counterparts anywhere in the world.”
For higher education analysts, MAAUN’s rise sends a powerful message: that Nigerian private universities—particularly in the northern region—can become global players if given the right vision, resources, and institutional discipline.
Its achievement is now being seen as a benchmark for other emerging institutions aiming to strengthen their research capacity and international visibility.
The university has already built academic bridges to Africa, Europe, Asia, and North America, giving its scholars opportunities to work in advanced laboratories, present at high-level conferences, and publish in prestigious journals. These partnerships, coupled with internal policies that reward research productivity, have made MAAUN a hub for ambitious academics seeking an international footprint.
Other Ranking status
Placing third nationally and 429th globally, Afe Babalola University recorded six researchers in the global top 10%, with 161 staff members in the top 50%. The institution’s founder, Aare Afe Babalola, has long championed quality-driven private education in Nigeria.
Redeemer’s University Sustains Faith-Based Excellence:
Redeemer’s University, based in Ede, Osun State, took fourth place nationally and 579th in the world. The school has four scholars in the global top 10% and 82 in the top 50%, underscoring its growing research influence within a faith-based academic model.
Other High Performers
Bowen University, Iwo – 5th nationally, 615th globally, with four top 10% researchers.
Landmark University, Omu-Aran – 6th nationally, 631st globally, showing remarkable progress since its founding in 2011.
Babcock University, Ilishan-Remo – 7th nationally, 1,123rd globally, with a large research team of 635 staff.
African University of Science and Technology (AUST), Abuja – 8th nationally, 1,486th globally, with a science and tech research focus.
Topfaith University, Mkpatak – 9th nationally, 1,566th globally, a young entrant with growing scholarly influence.
Pan-Atlantic University, Lekki – 10th nationally, 1,659th globally, known for management and communication studies.
Pan African University, Lagos – 11th nationally, 1,664th globally, with a continental academic focus.
Glorious Vision University, Ogwa – 12th nationally, 1,769th globally, an emerging player in private higher education.
Private Universities on the Rise
The AD Scientific Index ranking demonstrates that Nigerian private universities are steadily improving their global research visibility. Analysts say sustained investment in research facilities, academic staff development, and international collaborations is key to maintaining the momentum.
Higher education observers also note that the competition between older, established institutions and younger universities is fueling innovation in teaching and research quality.
Global Relevance
While most Nigerian private universities still have some way to go to break into the top 200 globally, their growing presence in Africa’s research map reflects the sector’s potential.
