News

Only 21 Nigerian Varsities Make Global Ranking, Say Educators [FULL LIST]

Published

9 months ago

October 23, 2024

An expert in Ecclesiastical Theology and Human Development, Prof. Moses Idowu, said only 21 Nigerian universities were recognised in the recent Global Ranking, out of a total of the 274 universities in the country.

He expressed concerns that the latest global rankings reflected the misgovernance and maladministration prevalent within Nigerian universities and the nation as a whole.

Idowu in an online post noted that two universities; Covenant University and Landmark University, both affiliated with the Living Faith Tabernacle and led by Bishop David Oyedepo ranked in the top tiers, specifically Bands A and B.

He further elaborated that among the 21 universities recognised in the global ranking, 19 were categorised in Bands B-D, with 15 being federal universities and four state universities.

He said, “Here are the shocks: no federal or state university made the list of the top 1,000 universities, and only Covenant and Landmark universities from the private sector ranked in the first two categories. Of the 21 universities, six are located in the North, while 15 are in the South.

“In the South, 10 are in the Southwest, three in the Southeast, and two in the South-South. In the North, three universities are in the Middle Belt (North Central) and two in the Northeast.

“Notably, of the three in North Central, Landmark University and the University of Ilorin are situated in the same state, Kwara.”

Idowu stated that among Nigeria’s first-generation universities, only Obafemi Awolowo University and Nsukka did not rank in Band B like their counterparts.

Nsukka was placed in Band C, while OAU fell into Band D.

He further analysed the rankings, stating, “Here are the results according to former Executive Secretary of the National Universities Commission, Prof. Peter Okebukola:

“Band A (801-1000): Only Covenant University made the list in this category. Band B (1001-1200): Four universities are included here: Ahmadu Bello University, University of Ibadan, Landmark University, and University of Lagos.

“Band C (1201-1500): This band comprises six universities: two Federal Universities of Technology (Akure and Minna), Bayero University, and the Universities of Benin, Ilorin, and Nsukka.

“Band D (1501 and below): Ten universities made this list, including four state universities: Lagos State University, Ekiti State University, Ladoke Akintola University of Technology, and Nnamdi Azikiwe University. Additionally, seven federal universities are included: Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta, Federal University of Technology, Owerri, Obafemi Awolowo University, Federal University Oye-Ekiti, University of Port Harcourt, University of Ilorin, and Usmanu Danfodiyo University, Sokoto.”

Idowu criticised stakeholders who celebrated the rankings, describing it as demeaning that a private institution, Covenant University, which had no access to public funds, was ranked as the best in the country.

He pointed out that out of over 274 universities in Nigeria, only one made the list of the top 1,000, classified as Band-A universities.

“Prof. Okebukola and others who view this result as impressive and worthy of celebration, I do not. I see this as an emblem of national shame, a tragic reflection of the misgovernance and maladministration not only of our universities but of the Nigerian nation as a whole,” he stated.

“What is particularly disheartening is that the only university to make the list is neither a federal nor a state university, but a private, mission-based institution. It receives no taxpayer money, public budget support, or alumni backing. It saddens me that a private organization without access to public funds is achieving such noteworthy results with its two universities, while a first-generation federal university like Ife struggles to compete. Great Ife, once renowned and respected globally, has now become a Band D university, outperformed by Landmark University, which was established less than 10 years ago. I am especially disheartened by the situation at Ife because I remember what this university represented in the days when scholarship was the hallmark of higher education. This decline highlights how Nigeria has mismanaged this once-great institution.”

A senior lecturer and Head of the Department of Mass Communication at Dominican University, Ibadan, Dr Ifeanyi Onyike, advised that for Nigeria to get things right, the government must lead by example and demonstrate that foreign certificates were not superior to those obtained in Nigeria.

“What I’m emphasising is that beyond the conversations and workshops we hold daily, we need strong policies to improve our educational system. These policies should ensure that both government and private firms prioritise the employment of homegrown graduates.

“Lastly, I believe the government should step back from the educational system, particularly in senior secondary and tertiary education. The government has consistently shown an inability to address the educational needs of citizens at these levels. Currently, students are out of school due to a hike in tuition fees, and students from other federal universities are protesting as well.

“Educational subsidies are a crucial measure that the Tinubu administration must seriously consider, as its actions and inactions have contributed to parents struggling to afford their children’s tuition. However, if subsidies cannot be implemented, I advocate for the privatisation of all federal universities so they can operate as profitable ventures. Maintaining the status quo while increasing fees will only benefit those exploiting the system and further harm the country.”

Another lecturer in the Department of Microbiology at Adeleke University and the Founder of Helix Biogen Institute in Ogbomoso, Oyo State, Nigeria, Dr Oladipo Kolawole, for Nigerian universities to achieve higher global rankings, several strategies could be implemented, including an improvement in research output and quality.

“Encouraging more research, particularly in STEM fields and the social sciences, can significantly enhance rankings. This involves promoting innovation, securing funding, and publishing in reputable international journals. Universities should also focus on high-impact and collaborative research initiatives.

“Additionally, adequate investment in education infrastructure by both the government and private sector is crucial. Modern laboratories, libraries, and digital resources enhance learning experiences and research capabilities.”

He called for increasing international collaboration and exchange programs, saying it was another important strategy. “Partnering with globally ranked universities for joint research projects, faculty exchanges, and international student programs can improve visibility and elevate academic standards. Recruiting and retaining highly qualified academic staff is essential. Providing opportunities for professional development and fostering international research collaborations can enhance teaching quality and research output.”

Kolawole maintained that enhancing the student experience was vital by emphasising student-centered learning, reducing overcrowded classes, and improving access to resources can lead to better learning outcomes and overall satisfaction, especially in public universities.

“Digital transformation is also necessary for modernization. Implementing technology in teaching, learning, and administration, such as online courses and digital libraries—can attract global attention to Nigerian universities.

“Lastly, universities should consider focusing on areas of specialization, aiming to become global leaders in fields such as agriculture, health sciences, or technology to improve visibility and relevance.

“In conclusion, implementing these strategies holistically could gradually enhance the global rankings of Nigerian universities,” he said.

News

UNICEF Urges Women To Breastfeed Babies Within One Hour Of Birth, Warns Against Breastmilk Substitutes Usage

Published

7 hours ago

August 2, 2025

Editor

The United Nations Children’s Fund has called on pregnant women in Borno State to initiate their newborns into breastmilk consumption within one hour of birth

Speaking during the flag-off event of the 2025 World Breastfeeding Week on Saturday in Maiduguri, the state capital, the UNICEF Chief of Maiduguri Field Office, Francis Busiku, stated that only 35.5 per cent of children in Nigeria were initiated to breastmilk within one hour of birth, and only 28.8 per cent were exclusively breastfed

According to him, this year’s theme, “Prioritise Breastfeeding: Create Sustainable Support System”, highlights the urgent need to prioritise actions and systems leading to equitable access to breastfeeding, especially for vulnerable women in rural and conflict-affected areas.

He said, “Only 35.5 per cent of children in Nigeria were initiated to breastmilk within one hour of birth, and only 28.8 per cent were exclusively breastfed.

“Every child born in Borno State deserves to be initiated to breastmilk within one hour of birth, exclusively, breastfed for the next six months of life and continue breastfeeding for up to two years and beyond”

Francis also warned against the use of breastmilk substitutes and unsafe water, while noting that it poses a serious health risk to infants

“The use of breastmilk substitutes and unsafe water in our communities can pose serious risks to the health of infants. It is therefore critical that the state enacts, enforces, and monitors the International Code of Marketing of Breastmilk Substitutes to protect children and promote breastfeeding,” he advised.

He emphasised that breast milk provides all essential nutrients infants need in the first six months and offers maximum protection against illness and supports health growth and development

The UNICEF boss further called on the Borno state government and stakeholders to strengthen maternal protection polices, increase funding support, revitalise baby-friendly initiatives and prioritise community-level nutrition interventions.

“Together, through strategic partnerships, innovative approaches, and sustained commitment, we can transform breastfeeding practices across Borno state. UNICEF remains steadfast in its support to the government and partners in this vital vision”, he concluded.

News

NBA Slams Niger Gov Over Shutting Down Of Radio Station

Published

7 hours ago

August 2, 2025

Editor

The Nigerian Bar Association has called on the Governor of Niger State, Mohammed Bago, to immediately withdraw what it described as an unconstitutional order shutting down Badeggi FM in the state.

The NBA President, Afam Osigwe, SAN), in a statement on Saturday, emphasised that only the National Broadcasting Commission had the legal authority to regulate or shut down broadcasting operations in the country as anything contrary will amount to press gagging.

The Association urged the governor to rescind his directive ordering the immediate closure of the privately owned Badeggi 90.1 FM.

It stressed that the action, reportedly carried out through instructions to the State Commissioner of Police and the Commissioner for Homeland Security, allegedly involved profiling the station’s owner and marking the premises for demolition.

The statement read, “This constitutes executive rascality of the highest order. It is a blatant abuse of power that undermines constitutional democracy and the rule of law. The Governor lacks the constitutional or legal authority to revoke broadcast licences or shut down any media establishment. In Nigeria, only the National Broadcasting Commission has the statutory mandate to regulate broadcasting, including the suspension or revocation of licences, subject to due process.

“It is imperative to state that the Commissioner of Police or any security agency must not act on unlawful executive directives. Security agencies are bound by law to act within constitutional limits and not as instruments for political intimidation or media suppression.

“The Nigerian Constitution guarantees freedom of expression under Section 39, including the right to own, operate, and access media. No person, regardless of office, has the right to arbitrarily restrict or shut down a media house without due process of law. This unlawful closure, without regulatory sanction or judicial backing, is a dangerous assault on press freedom and democratic governance.”

The NBA further stated that Governor Bago’s directive is entirely unlawful and of no legal effect.

Osigwe maintained that the Commissioner of Police and other relevant authorities must refuse to implement illegal orders that infringe on constitutional rights, reiterating that media regulation must follow due process through established statutory mechanisms, not arbitrary executive action.

The Association also noted that the actions taken against Badeggi FM constitute a direct affront to press freedom and violate Nigeria’s democratic norms.

“We call on Governor Bago to immediately withdraw this directive and refrain from further unconstitutional acts. The NBA also urges all levels of government to uphold the rule of law, respect constitutional boundaries, and protect the freedom of the press. A free and independent media is not a privilege – it is a constitutional right and a cornerstone of any democratic society,” the statement read.

News

NGE Reacts As Govt Closes Radio Station In Niger

Published

7 hours ago

August 2, 2025

Editor

The Nigerian Guild of Editors has condemned the recent closure of Badeggi Radio by Niger State Governor, Mohammed Bago, describing the action as a direct assault on press freedom and a threat to Nigeria’s democracy.

In a statement signed by its President, Eze Anaba, and General Secretary, Onuoha Ukeh, on Saturday, the Guild said the governor acted outside his constitutional powers and bypassed due process in ordering the shutdown of the station.

“This act of censorship and intimidation undermines the fundamental principles of a democratic society, where a free press is essential for holding those in power accountable,” the Guild said.

Citing Section 39 of the 1999 Constitution (as amended) and Article 9 of the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights, the NGE emphasised that press freedom and freedom of expression are guaranteed rights that must be protected.

The Guild noted that only the Nigerian Broadcasting Commission has the legal authority to sanction broadcast stations, and only after a thorough investigation of any alleged breach of the broadcast code.

“The closure of Badeggi Radio, a vital platform for public discourse and information dissemination, is a worrying trend that threatens the very fabric of our democracy.

“Governor Bago acted outside his powers to order the closure of a radio station. The power to sanction television and radio stations only lies with the Nigerian Broadcasting Commission (NBC) after a thorough investigation of any alleged breach of the Code.

“We are happy that the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mallam Mohammed Idris, has pointed this out. This should go beyond observing the anomaly.

“The Federal Government should order the unsealing of the premises of the radio station while an investigation is carried out,” the statement read.

The editors likened the governor’s action to the arbitrary clampdowns experienced during military rule, warning that such decisions erode the democratic progress made since 1999.

“Arbitrary closure of media houses reminds us of the dark days of military rule, which ended 26 years ago,” the Guild stated.

While acknowledging that Bago had alleged that the station incited violence, the Guild insisted that such a serious accusation must first be investigated and proven before any punitive measure is taken.

“Governor Bago’s allegation of incitement of violence by the radio station is a serious issue, which has to be investigated and proven before any action can be taken. We urge the media to operate under strict adherence to the code of ethics of journalism, with responsible conduct at the back of the minds of the professionals,” the statement read.

The editors urged media professionals to operate responsibly and adhere strictly to the code of ethics of journalism, but stressed that due process must always be followed by authorities.

“The Guild reiterates that a free and independent press is essential for a functioning democracy and demands that governments at all levels respect and uphold this fundamental right,” the statement concluded.