Each year, the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) reveals trends that shape the choices of prospective university students across Nigeria. The 2024 UTME statistics have once again highlighted the most sought-after institutions, offering insights into student preferences, institutional reputation, and overall appeal.

Top 10 Most Sought-After Universities in Nigeria (2024)

The list below reflects universities that attracted the highest number of first-choice applications in the 2024 UTME cycle:

1. University of Ilorin (UNILORIN) – 92,908 applicants
   UNILORIN continues to top the chart due to its reputation for academic stability and uninterrupted academic calendar. It’s especially popular among students from the North-Central region and beyond.
2. University of Lagos (UNILAG) – 80,230 applicants
   Located in Nigeria’s commercial hub, UNILAG remains a favorite for its urban appeal, diverse academic programs, and strong alumni network.
3. Lagos State University (LASU) – 72,573 applicants
   LASU has grown in popularity thanks to recent academic reforms, improved infrastructure, and increased public confidence in its academic output.
4. Federal University, Oye-Ekiti (FUOYE) – 65,522 applicants
   FUOYE’s relatively recent rise in demand can be traced to its expansion, student-friendly environment, and active digital presence.
5. University of Benin (UNIBEN) – 61,209 applicants
   With a legacy of academic excellence and wide course offerings, UNIBEN attracts students from across the country.
6. Nnamdi Azikiwe University (UNIZIK) – 60,172 applicants
   As one of the top federal universities in the South-East, UNIZIK’s appeal lies in its vibrant campus life and academic credibility.
7. University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN) – 59,964 applicants
   UNN’s history and pedigree as one of Nigeria’s first universities keep it high on applicants’ lists.
8. Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU) – 56,519 applicants
   OAU’s strong academic culture and influential alumni network continue to sustain its desirability despite high competition.
9. Ahmadu Bello University (ABU), Zaria – 54,203 applicants
   ABU remains the top choice in Northern Nigeria, known for its vast campus, wide academic offerings, and affordable fees.
10. Olabisi Onabanjo University (OOU) – 52,444 applicants
    OOU’s improved visibility, combined with efforts at academic reform, has pushed it into the top 10 for the first time in recent years.

What Makes These Universities So Attractive?

Several factors influence students’ choices when selecting institutions, including:

• Academic Stability: Institutions like UNILORIN and FUOYE are known for relatively smooth academic calendars with minimal strike disruptions.
• Location: Proximity to home or urban centers like Lagos increases appeal.
• Reputation and Recognition: Universities with national and international recognition often attract more candidates.
• Course Availability: The broader the program offerings, the higher the chance of attracting applicants.
• Post-Graduation Opportunities: Institutions with good graduate employment rates or strong professional networks tend to be more sought-after.

Implications for Admission Seekers

Being highly sought-after also means these universities are extremely competitive. Candidates applying to these institutions should:

• Aim for high UTME and post-UTME scores.
• Have strong O’level results.
• Consider backup options, especially if their scores are below the departmental cut-off marks.

FAQs on Most Preferred Universities in Nigeria

Q: Does being a sought-after university mean it’s the best in Nigeria?
Not necessarily. “Most sought-after” refers to the number of applicants, not necessarily academic ranking or quality.

Q: Can I still gain admission to these universities with a lower UTME score?
It depends on the course and overall competition for that year. Some departments are less competitive than others.

Q: Should I consider less competitive schools instead?
Yes, especially if you’re looking for quicker admission or have moderate UTME scores. Many less-popular universities also offer quality education.

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