Top 10 Most Populated Universities In Nigeria 2023

A populated university, often referred to as a populous university, is an institution of higher education that accommodates a substantial number of students, faculty, and staff, resulting in a bustling and diverse academic community. The term "populated" in this context emphasizes the significant human presence within the university environment.

Nigeria has a large and growing population, with over 211 million people. As a result, there is a high demand for higher education in the country. Nigeria has over 170 universities, both public and private, catering to the needs of millions of students.

In this article, we will take a look at the top 10 most populated universities in Nigeria in 2023.

These universities are all located in different parts of the country and offer a wide range of programs and courses.

Top 10 Most Populated Universities In Nigeria 2023.

• The National Open University of Nigeria
• University of Maiduguri 
• University of Ilorin
• Ahmadu Bello University 
• University of Benin 
• University of Lagos
• Bayero University
• University of Jos
• University of Calabar
• Ambrose Ali University

1. The National Open University of Nigeria – 600,000 students

The National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN) is a federal open distance learning university established in 1983. It is the largest university in Nigeria by student enrollment, with over 600,000 students enrolled in different courses. NOUN offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs in the humanities, social sciences, natural sciences, and business management.

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The university's open distance learning system makes it accessible to students of all ages, backgrounds, and occupations. NOUN students can study at their own pace and from anywhere in the world. The university also offers a variety of support services to help students succeed, including online tutoring, counseling, and library resources.

The fact that NOUN has over 600,000 students is a testament to its popularity and success. The university is providing educational opportunities to a large number of Nigerians who would otherwise not be able to access higher education. NOUN is also playing an important role in promoting social mobility and economic development in Nigeria.

Here are some of the benefits of having a large student population at NOUN:

• Increased diversity: A large student population brings together students from different backgrounds and cultures, which can enrich the learning experience for everyone.
  More resources: A larger student population means that NOUN can invest in more resources, such as better facilities, more faculty, and more support services.
  Enhanced reputation: A large student population also enhances the reputation of NOUN as a leading university in Nigeria. However, there are also some challenges associated with having a large student population. For example, it can be difficult to ensure that all students receive the attention and support they need. Additionally, NOUN needs to make sure that it has the infrastructure and resources in place to support a large number of students.

Overall, the fact that NOUN has over 600,000 students is a positive development. It is a sign that the university is meeting the needs of a large number of Nigerians and providing them with access to higher education. However, NOUN needs to continue to invest in its resources and infrastructure to ensure that it can provide quality education to all of its students.

2. University of Maiduguri – 75,000 students.

The University of Maiduguri, located in Maiduguri, Nigeria, is a notable institution with a substantial student population. With approximately 75,000 students, it is one of the largest universities in Nigeria and West Africa. Here are some key points to discuss about the University of Maiduguri and its student population:

• Size and Diversity: The university's large student population reflects its diverse student body, with students hailing from various regions of Nigeria and other countries. This diversity contributes to a rich cultural and academic environment.
• Academic Programs: The University of Maiduguri offers a wide range of academic programs across various disciplines, including arts and humanities, sciences, engineering, social sciences, and more. This extensive offering caters to the diverse interests and career aspirations of its students.
• Research and Innovation: With a significant number of students, the university has the potential to drive research and innovation in various fields. It can foster a vibrant research community that contributes to the advancement of knowledge and addresses regional and global challenges.
• Challenges and Opportunities: Managing such a large student body comes with challenges related to infrastructure, faculty-student ratios, and administrative efficiency. However, it also presents opportunities for the university to make a significant impact on education and development in the region.
• Community Engagement: The University of Maiduguri can play a crucial role in community development and outreach, given its size and resources. It can engage with local communities through various initiatives, such as outreach programs, community service, and partnerships.
• Security Concerns: It's important to acknowledge the security challenges faced by the university due to its location in northeastern Nigeria, which has been affected by conflict. Ensuring the safety and well-being of such a large student population is a top priority for the institution.
• Future Growth and Development: The university's leadership must plan for sustainable growth and development to accommodate the needs of its 75,000 students and to maintain the quality of education. This includes investments in infrastructure, faculty development, and research facilities.

In summary, the University of Maiduguri's 75,000 students represent both a challenge and an opportunity for the institution. With proper planning and support, it can continue to serve as a hub for education, research, and community development in Nigeria and beyond.

3. University of Ilorin – 53,782 students.

The University of Ilorin (UNILORIN) is a public research university located in Ilorin, Kwara State, Nigeria. It was founded in 1975 and is one of the most prestigious universities in Nigeria. UNILORIN has a student population of over 53,000, making it one of the largest universities in the country.

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The university offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs in a variety of disciplines, including arts, humanities, social sciences, sciences, engineering, and medicine. UNILORIN is known for its high academic standards and its commitment to excellence in teaching and research.

The university has produced many notable alumni, including former Nigerian presidents, government officials, business leaders, and academics. UNILORIN is also a major center for research and innovation, and its faculty members have made significant contributions to a variety of fields.

Here are some of the key points of discussion at the University of Ilorin with 53,782 students:

• Academic excellence: UNILORIN is known for its high academic standards and its commitment to excellence in teaching and research. The university has a strong track record of producing graduates who are successful in their careers.
• Student diversity: UNILORIN has a student population of over 53,000 students from all over Nigeria and other African countries. This diversity of students enriches the university's academic and social environment.
• Research and innovation: UNILORIN is a major center for research and innovation. Its faculty members have made significant contributions to a variety of fields, including medicine, engineering, agriculture, and the social sciences.
• Impact on the community: UNILORIN plays an important role in the development of the Ilorin community and the Kwara State. The university provides jobs and educational opportunities for residents, and its research and innovation activities have helped to boost the local economy.

Overall, the University of Ilorin is a highly respected institution that is making a significant contribution to Nigerian society. With its large student population, commitment to academic excellence, and focus on research and innovation, UNILORIN is well-positioned to continue to play a leading role in Nigerian higher education.

 UNILORIN is a major employer in the Ilorin area, and its students and staff contribute to the local economy by spending money on goods and services. The university also hosts several conferences and workshops each year, which attract visitors from all over the world.

Overall, the University of Ilorin is a valuable asset to the Ilorin community and the Kwara State. Its large student population is a source of strength and vitality, and its commitment to academic excellence and research is helping to drive innovation and economic development in the region.

4. Ahmadu Bello University – 52,705 students.

Ahmadu Bello University (ABU) is a public research university located in Zaria, Kaduna State, Nigeria. It is the largest university in Nigeria by student enrollment, with over 52,705 students. ABU was founded in 1962 and is named after Sir Ahmadu Bello, the Sardauna of Sokoto and the first Premier of Northern Nigeria.

ABU offers undergraduate and postgraduate programs in a wide range of disciplines, including agriculture, arts, engineering, law, medicine, and science. The university is also home to several research centers and institutes, including the Centre for Dryland Agriculture, the Institute for Agricultural Research, and the Institute for Medical Research.

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ABU is a highly selective university and is ranked among the top universities in Africa. The university has produced many notable alumni, including former Nigerian presidents Shehu Shagari and Umaru Yar'Adua.

5. University of Benin – 51,282 Students. 

The University of Benin (UNIBEN) is a public research university located in Benin City, Edo State, Nigeria. It was founded in 1970 and is one of the largest universities in Nigeria, with a student population of over 51,000 students.

UNIBEN offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs in the arts, humanities, sciences, and professional disciplines. It is also home to several research centers and institutes, including the Centre for Petroleum, Energy Economics and Law (CPEEL), the Institute for Public Policy and Administration (IPPA), and the Institute of African Studies (IAS). UNIBEN has produced unrevealable alumni, including former President Goodluck Jonathan, former Vice President Yemi Osinbajo, and Nobel laureate Wole Soyinka.

The University of Benin is a leading institution of higher education in Nigeria and plays an important role in the country's economic, social, and cultural development.

Overall, the large student population of the University of Benin is both a challenge and an opportunity. The university needs to carefully manage its resources to ensure that it can provide a high-quality education to all of its students. However, the university's large student body also gives it a unique opportunity to play a leading role in the development of Nigeria.

6. University of Lagos – 50,000 students.

The University of Lagos (UNILAG) is one of Nigeria's prominent institutions of higher learning. With approximately 50,000 students, it is one of the largest universities in the country. UNILAG offers a wide range of undergraduate, postgraduate, and research programs across various fields of study.

The university's large student population reflects its reputation and popularity among aspiring scholars. It has a diverse student body, drawing individuals from various regions of Nigeria and other countries. This diversity contributes to a rich cultural and academic environment on campus.

UNILAG is known for its rigorous academic standards and has produced many successful alumni who have made significant contributions to various fields, including politics, business, arts, and sciences. The university is committed to research and innovation, making it a hub for cutting-edge research and academic excellence.

The challenges of managing such a large student population include ensuring adequate infrastructure, faculty, and resources to meet the educational needs of all students. It also involves addressing issues related to accommodation, transportation, and campus services to ensure a positive learning experience for everyone.

In summary, the University of Lagos with its 50,000 students plays a pivotal role in Nigerian higher education and contributes to the intellectual and socio-economic development of the nation.

7. Bayero University – 46,492 students

Bayero University Kano (BUK) is a public university located in Kano, Kano State, Nigeria. It is one of the largest universities in Africa, with a student population of over 46,000. The university was founded in 1977 as a university college affiliated with Ahmadu Bello University, but it gained full university status in 1979.

BUK offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs in a variety of fields, including arts and humanities, social sciences, natural sciences, engineering, and health sciences. The university is also home to several research centers and institutes, including the Centre for Dryland Agriculture, the Centre for Population Health and Policy, and the Centre for Biotechnology Research.

BUK is a highly-ranked university in Nigeria and Africa. It is consistently ranked among the top 10 universities in Nigeria by the National Universities Commission (NUC). In 2023, BUK was ranked 10th in Nigeria and 24th in Africa by uniRank.

Overall, Bayero University Kano is a leading university in Nigeria and Africa with a large and diverse student body. The university faces some challenges in accommodating and supporting its large student body, but it also has an opportunity to leverage its large student body to create a vibrant and productive academic community.

8. University of Jos – 41,000 students.

The University of Jos (Unijos) is a federal university in Jos, Plateau State, Nigeria. It was founded in 1975 and has a student population of over 41,000. The university offers undergraduate and postgraduate programs in a wide range of disciplines, including arts, humanities, sciences, and engineering.

Unijos is one of the most prestigious universities in Nigeria and is known for its academic excellence. It has produced many notable alumni, including politicians, business leaders, and academics. The university is also a major center for research and innovation.

The University of Jos is a large university with a diverse student population. It is a vibrant and cosmopolitan institution that offers students a variety of opportunities to learn and grow. The university has a strong commitment to excellence and is dedicated to providing its students with a high-quality education.

Overall, the University of Jos is a large and diverse institution that offers its students a variety of opportunities to learn and grow. The university's large student population presents both challenges and opportunities. The university must work to ensure that it has the resources and support in place to meet the needs of all of its students.

9. University of Calabar – 40,645 students

The University of Calabar (UNICAL) is a federal university located in Calabar, Cross River State, Nigeria. It was founded in 1975 as part of the National Higher Education Expansion Programme of the Federal Military Government of Nigeria. UNICAL is one of the leading and largest universities in Nigeria, with a student population of over 40,000.

UNICAL offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs in the Faculties of Arts, Education, Engineering, Law, Management Sciences, Medical Sciences, Pharmacy, Physical Sciences, Science, Social Sciences, and Veterinary Medicine. The university also has several research institutes and centers, including the Center for Biodiversity and Conservation Research, the Center for Petroleum, Energy Economics and Law, and the Institute of African Studies.

UNICAL is a highly-ranked university in Nigeria and Africa. In the 2023 Webometrics Ranking of World Universities, UNICAL was ranked 1st in Cross River State and 11th in Nigeria. UNICAL is also ranked among the top 100 universities in Africa by the Times Higher Education World University Rankings.

The University of Calabar is a major contributor to the social and economic development of Cross River State and Nigeria. The university's graduates are employed in a wide range of sectors, including government, industry, and academia. UNICAL is also a major tourist destination, with its beautiful campus and cultural attractions.

 UNICAL's graduates are also highly sought-after by employers. The university is a major contributor to the social and economic development of Cross River State and Nigeria.

10. Ambrose Ali University – 37,584 Students

Ambrose Ali University, located in Nigeria, is a notable institution with a substantial student population of 37,584. This large student body likely contributes to a diverse and vibrant campus community. It would be interesting to explore tOverviewuch as the university's academic programs, campus facilities, and its impact on the local community.

Ambrose Alli University, located in Nigeria, is a prominent institution of higher education that has a significant impact on the academic landscape of the region. With an impressive student body of 37,584 individuals, the university has grown to become a hub for learning and innovation.

Established in 1981, Ambrose Alli University has consistently strived for excellence in education and research. Its diverse student population reflects the university's commitment to providing access to quality education to a wide range of students from various backgrounds.

The university's academic programs are comprehensive and cover a wide array of disciplines, including arts, sciences, engineering, social sciences, and more. This diversity allows students to pursue their passions and interests while fostering a well-rounded education.

Furthermore, Ambrose Alli University places a strong emphasis on research and innovation. Faculty members actively engage in cutting-edge research across multiple fields, contributing to the advancement of knowledge and the development of solutions to real-world problems.

The campus environment at Ambrose Alli University is vibrant and conducive to learning. Students have access to modern facilities, libraries, and laboratories, ensuring they receive a well-rounded education. Additionally, the university hosts numerous extracurricular activities, clubs, and events that foster personal growth and development.

In conclusion, Ambrose Alli University, with its impressive student body, dedication to academic excellence, and commitment to research and innovation, plays a crucial role in shaping the future of education and development in Nigeria. It continues to be a beacon of opportunity for thousands of students seeking a high-quality education.