Oyo State remains one of Nigeria’s most academically respected regions, home to a mix of prestigious federal, dynamic state-owned, and fast-growing private universities. With Ibadan as the capital city and a long-standing legacy in education, the state attracts students from all parts of Nigeria and beyond.
This 2025 official ranking features the top-performing universities in Oyo State based on academic reputation, infrastructure, programs offered, graduate employability, and student satisfaction.
1. University of Ibadan (UI), Ibadan
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Type: Federal
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Founded: 1948
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Location: Ibadan
UI is Nigeria’s oldest university and remains the most prestigious higher institution in the country. It offers world-class academic programs, strong research capacity, and excellent faculty. With a vast alumni network and globally recognized degrees, UI consistently ranks as the number one university in Oyo and among the best in Africa.
2. Ladoke Akintola University of Technology (LAUTECH), Ogbomoso
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Type: State
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Founded: 1990
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Location: Ogbomoso
LAUTECH is a leading state-owned university known for its innovation in science, engineering, and technology. It provides strong practical training and technical education, and its graduates are among the most employable in Nigeria.
3. Lead City University, Ibadan
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Type: Private
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Founded: 2005
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Location: Ibadan
Lead City University offers flexible and modern academic programs, catering to full-time and part-time students. It emphasizes digital learning and entrepreneurship, making it an ideal environment for students seeking real-world relevance.
4. Ajayi Crowther University, Oyo
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Type: Private
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Founded: 2005
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Location: Oyo Town
This faith-based university promotes academic excellence with a strong moral foundation. It offers a serene learning environment, quality faculty, and programs across humanities, management, and sciences.
5. First Technical University (Tech-U), Ibadan
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Type: State
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Founded: 2017
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Location: Ibadan
Tech-U is Nigeria’s premier technical university focusing on hands-on training in engineering, ICT, and applied sciences. Its programs are tailored to meet industry needs, and students enjoy robust internship opportunities and industrial partnerships.
6. Dominican University, Ibadan
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Type: Private
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Founded: 2016
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Location: Ibadan
Dominican University combines academic excellence with Catholic values. It offers quality programs in social sciences, computing, philosophy, and religious studies, and emphasizes leadership and ethics.
7. KolaDaisi University, Ibadan
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Type: Private
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Founded: 2016
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Location: Ibadan
A relatively young institution, KolaDaisi University is steadily gaining recognition for its modern facilities, innovative programs, and student-centered approach to learning.
8. Atiba University, Oyo
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Type: Private
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Founded: 2017
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Location: Oyo
Atiba University focuses on entrepreneurship, innovation, and academic discipline. With programs in health sciences, arts, and management, the school is quickly rising in the education landscape of Oyo State.
9. Precious Cornerstone University (PCU), Ibadan
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Type: Private
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Founded: 2019
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Location: Ibadan
PCU is a Christian-based university with a strong emphasis on character building and academic excellence. Its growing reputation is built on quality teaching and a structured learning environment.
10. Dominion University, Ibadan
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Type: Private
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Founded: 2019
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Location: Ibadan
Dominion University promotes academic rigor and spiritual discipline. It offers programs in computing, management, and sciences and is committed to producing well-rounded graduates.
Summary Table: Top Universities in Oyo State 2025
| Rank | University Name | Type | City | Area of Strengths |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | University of Ibadan (UI) | Federal | Ibadan | Research, academics, international ranking |
| 2 | LAUTECH | State | Ogbomoso | Technology, engineering, innovation |
| 3 | Lead City University | Private | Ibadan | Flexibility, digital skills, entrepreneurship |
| 4 | Ajayi Crowther University | Private | Oyo | Faith-based, social sciences, leadership |
| 5 | First Technical University | State | Ibadan | Technical education, ICT, engineering |
| 6 | Dominican University | Private | Ibadan | Liberal arts, ethics, values |
| 7 | KolaDaisi University | Private | Ibadan | Business, ICT, quality teaching |
| 8 | Atiba University | Private | Oyo | Entrepreneurship, health sciences |
| 9 | Precious Cornerstone University | Private | Ibadan | Christian values, discipline |
| 10 | Dominion University | Private | Ibadan | Emerging university, innovation |
FAQs: Top Universities in Oyo State 2025
1. What is the number one university in Oyo State?
The University of Ibadan (UI) ranks as the top university in Oyo State and remains one of the best in Nigeria.
2. Are there private universities in Oyo State?
Yes, Oyo State has several accredited private universities, including Lead City University, Ajayi Crowther University, KolaDaisi University, and more.
3. What is the best state university in Oyo?
Ladoke Akintola University of Technology (LAUTECH) stands out as the best-performing state university in Oyo State.
4. What programs are offered at Tech-U?
First Technical University (Tech-U) offers programs in engineering, ICT, sciences, and technical fields with a strong practical focus.
5. How can I apply to universities in Oyo State?
You can apply through the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) portal or visit the official websites of the universities for their admission processes.
Conclusion
Oyo State continues to set the pace in academic excellence, research, and innovation. Whether you’re pursuing a degree in sciences, engineering, arts, or management, the universities in this state offer the right foundation for success. Choosing to study in Oyo means gaining access to some of the best lecturers, facilities, and student-friendly environments in Nigeria.
