The South-South region of Nigeria—also known as the Niger Delta—is known for its rich natural resources, cultural diversity, and strong educational institutions. With a growing emphasis on education, several universities in this region have emerged as academic powerhouses, offering world-class programs in fields like petroleum engineering, law, social sciences, education, and medical sciences.
In this guide, we highlight the top 10 best universities in South-South Nigeria as of 2025, based on factors such as academic performance, research output, infrastructure, employability, and national rankings.
Top 10 Best Universities in South-South Nigeria 2025
1. University of Benin (UNIBEN) – Edo State
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Established: 1970
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Type: Federal
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Highlights: One of Nigeria’s top federal universities with excellent programs in medicine, law, engineering, and arts. It’s also known for its highly rated teaching hospital (UBTH).
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Location Advantage: Centrally located in Benin City with a vibrant student community.
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Website: www.uniben.edu
2. University of Port Harcourt (UNIPORT) – Rivers State
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Established: 1975
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Type: Federal
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Highlights: Ranked among Nigeria’s best in petroleum engineering, health sciences, and humanities. It’s home to the prestigious Institute of Petroleum Studies.
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Reputation: Known for industry-research collaborations and professional programs.
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Website: www.uniport.edu.ng
3. Niger Delta University (NDU) – Bayelsa State
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Established: 2000
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Type: State
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Highlights: A key player in educating the region’s youth in marine, environmental, engineering, and medical sciences.
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Reputation: Strong regional influence with focus on local development and sustainability.
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Website: www.ndu.edu.ng
4. Rivers State University (RSU) – Rivers State
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Established: 1980 (as RSUST)
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Type: State
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Highlights: One of the best state universities in Nigeria with programs in law, engineering, management, and agriculture.
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Unique Feature: First technological university in Nigeria.
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Website: www.rsu.edu.ng
5. University of Calabar (UNICAL) – Cross River State
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Established: 1975
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Type: Federal
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Highlights: Strong programs in arts, social sciences, sciences, education, and law. UNICAL has one of the largest and most beautiful campuses in the region.
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Reputation: Known for producing thought leaders and public administrators.
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Website: www.unical.edu.ng
6. Akwa Ibom State University (AKSU) – Akwa Ibom State
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Established: 2009
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Type: State
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Highlights: Rapidly growing university offering courses in engineering, biological sciences, education, and the arts.
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Location: Two campuses in Mkpat Enin and Obio Akpa.
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Website: www.aksu.edu.ng
7. Federal University Otuoke (FUO) – Bayelsa State
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Established: 2011
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Type: Federal
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Highlights: Young and fast-growing with emphasis on energy, entrepreneurship, and ICT.
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Reputation: Presidential university established under the Goodluck Jonathan administration.
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Website: www.fuotuoke.edu.ng
8. Cross River University of Technology (CRUTECH) – Cross River State
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Established: 2002
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Type: State
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Highlights: Known for offering professional courses in science, technology, and environmental studies.
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Specialties: Architecture, building tech, and computer science.
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Website: www.crutech.edu.ng
9. Edo State University Uzairue (EDSU) – Edo State
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Established: 2016
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Type: State
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Highlights: World-class digital facilities, smart classrooms, and strong academic staff.
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Reputation: Fast becoming one of Nigeria’s most advanced state-owned universities.
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Website: www.edouniversity.edu.ng
10. Dennis Osadebay University (DOU) – Delta State
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Established: 2021 (converted from Delta State University of Education, Agbor)
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Type: State
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Highlights: Offers a fresh academic approach with modern facilities and diverse degree programs.
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Reputation: Modern academic infrastructure with potential for regional impact.
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Website: www.dou.edu.ng
FAQs – Best Universities in South-South Nigeria
1. Which university is the best in South-South Nigeria?
University of Benin (UNIBEN) ranks as the best university in South-South Nigeria due to its age, reputation, quality of academic staff, and course diversity.
2. Are there private universities in South-South Nigeria?
Yes. Examples include Wellspring University, Western Delta University, and PAMO University of Medical Sciences.
3. Which university in the South-South is best for engineering?
University of Port Harcourt (UNIPORT) and Rivers State University (RSU) are highly rated for engineering.
4. Which university is best for medicine in the region?
UNIBEN, UNIPORT, and NDU all have reputable faculties of medicine.
5. What makes South-South universities unique?
They combine academic excellence with rich cultural diversity, strong links to the oil and gas industry, and often beautiful, eco-friendly campuses.
Conclusion
South-South Nigeria is not only rich in oil but also in quality education. These universities provide a solid academic foundation for students seeking excellence across various fields. From world-class teaching hospitals to smart learning environments, the region's institutions continue to produce leaders, researchers, and innovators shaping Nigeria’s future.
If you're considering studying in the Niger Delta region, any of these top 10 universities would be an excellent choice in 2025.
