Economics is one of the most prestigious and sought-after disciplines in Nigeria, offering students a deep understanding of how societies allocate resources and how economic decisions shape nations. In today’s Nigeria, where economic policies can determine the future of millions, the importance of studying Economics at a reputable institution cannot be overstated.
In this blog post, we will explore the top 10 universities in Nigeria to study Economics. These universities have distinguished themselves through academic excellence, quality of faculty, research output, industry relevance, and alumni success. Whether you’re an aspiring economist or a student curious about economic theory, this guide will help you choose the right institution for your studies.
1. University of Ibadan (UI) – Ibadan, Oyo State
Founded in 1948, the University of Ibadan stands as Nigeria’s oldest and most prestigious university. Its Department of Economics is widely respected for its academic rigour and impactful research.
Why Choose UI?
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Ranked among the best in Africa for Economics.
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Offers strong foundations in microeconomics, macroeconomics, and econometrics.
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Home to top scholars and hosts regular economic policy conferences.
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Alumni have gone on to become central bank officials, economic advisers, and policy influencers.
UI’s longstanding reputation and deep-rooted academic culture make it an excellent choice for students interested in theory, research, and public policy.
2. University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN) – Nsukka, Enugu State
The University of Nigeria, Nsukka, established in 1960, is a pioneer in the field of economics in Nigeria. The university takes pride in integrating African perspectives into economic theory and research.
Why Choose UNN?
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Renowned for economic development research and data analysis.
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Offers specialisations in monetary economics, development economics, and public finance.
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Alumni occupy leadership positions in government and international organisations.
UNN combines solid academics with a rich cultural environment that nurtures critical thinking and innovation.
3. Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU) – Ile-Ife, Osun State
OAU, originally known as the University of Ife, is a federal university celebrated for its excellence in social sciences. Its Department of Economics has a reputation for producing top economists in Nigeria.
Why Choose OAU?
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Emphasizes critical thinking and analytical skills.
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Offers research opportunities through its Institute for Applied Economics.
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Active alumni network in finance, policy, and academia.
Students at OAU benefit from a balanced approach between theory and practical application of economics in real-world scenarios.
4. University of Lagos (UNILAG) – Akoka, Lagos State
Located in Nigeria’s commercial capital, UNILAG provides a unique advantage for economics students due to its proximity to banks, multinational corporations, and policy institutions.
Why Choose UNILAG?
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Strong emphasis on urban economics, finance, and policy development.
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High employability rate due to Lagos-based internships and networking opportunities.
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Innovative curriculum and top-notch faculty.
For students seeking to immerse themselves in Nigeria’s financial ecosystem, UNILAG offers a perfect platform.
5. Ahmadu Bello University (ABU) – Zaria, Kaduna State
Ahmadu Bello University is one of the largest and most respected universities in Nigeria. Its Department of Economics plays a key role in shaping economic thought in Northern Nigeria.
Why Choose ABU?
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Strong programs in development, agricultural, and Islamic economics.
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Active in national research projects and development policy formulation.
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Alumni are prominent in government, education, and business sectors.
ABU offers a holistic education that bridges theory with practice, especially in development-related fields.
6. Covenant University – Ota, Ogun State
Covenant University is a leading private institution that has rapidly gained recognition for its academic quality and innovation. Its Economics program is modern, research-focused, and technology-driven.
Why Choose Covenant?
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Ranked among the top private universities in West Africa.
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Emphasis on entrepreneurship and economic modeling.
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Industry-linked projects and tech-integrated curriculum.
Covenant is ideal for students who seek a forward-thinking and disciplined academic environment with a global outlook.
7. University of Ilorin (UNILORIN) – Ilorin, Kwara State
UNILORIN is known for its uninterrupted academic calendar and consistently high standards. The Department of Economics is no exception.
Why Choose UNILORIN?
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Efficient academic structure and solid teaching methodology.
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Strong student support and mentorship.
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Alumni perform well in public service and business sectors.
If you’re looking for a university that offers reliability and structure, UNILORIN is a dependable choice.
8. University of Port Harcourt (UNIPORT) – Port Harcourt, Rivers State
UNIPORT stands out for its focus on applied economics, especially in areas relevant to the Niger Delta, such as oil and gas economics.
Why Choose UNIPORT?
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Specialised courses in energy economics and environmental policy.
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Partnerships with petroleum and energy-focused institutions.
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Strong regional research initiatives.
For students interested in natural resource economics, UNIPORT offers a curriculum tailored to the economic realities of the region.
9. Bayero University Kano (BUK) – Kano State
BUK is one of the leading universities in Northern Nigeria. Its Department of Economics is focused on providing solutions to regional economic challenges through research and community-based projects.
Why Choose BUK?
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Offers Islamic Economics and finance modules.
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Research in agricultural, health, and rural development economics.
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Affordable education and access to culturally diverse communities.
BUK is a solid option for students looking to apply economics to social change and development.
10. Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta (FUNAAB) – Ogun State
Though primarily an agriculture-focused institution, FUNAAB has carved a niche in agricultural and resource economics, providing students with highly relevant skills.
Why Choose FUNAAB?
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Specialises in agribusiness and agricultural policy.
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Interdisciplinary research with practical relevance.
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Opportunity to work closely with farmers and rural communities.
For students passionate about food security, agricultural policy, and development economics, FUNAAB offers a focused and practical approach.
Final Thoughts
Nigeria is a country with vast economic potential and complex developmental challenges. As such, studying Economics at one of the nation’s top universities equips you not just with academic knowledge but with the tools to influence policy, build sustainable businesses, and shape the future of the economy.
Whether you are drawn to policy-making, academia, entrepreneurship, or finance, these top 10 institutions offer the best training and mentorship to launch your journey. Make sure to research your preferred university's entry requirements, facilities, and student support systems before applying.
Did we miss your favorite Economics school? Let us know in the comments below!
