Nigeria is home to some of the largest universities in Africa, enrolling hundreds of thousands of students from around the world. These institutions offer a wide range of courses and occupy extensive hectares of land. According to recent statistics, the largest university in Nigeria in 2026 based on land mass is the University of Ilorin. Below is a detailed list of the top five largest universities and their land sizes.
Key Takeaways
- Some of the top universities in Nigeria are also the largest by land area.
- Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta (FUNAAB) ranks among the largest universities in Nigeria based on land mass.
- The University of Ilorin tops the list with approximately 15,000 hectares.
Largest University in Nigeria in 2026: Top 5 List
University rankings in Nigeria are typically based on academic performance, but this list focuses on land mass. While an institution's size may not directly influence a student's choice, it is an important factor for expansion and reducing congestion. Explore the top five largest universities in Nigeria in 2026, along with their sizes and history.
5. Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta (FUNAAB) – 10,000 Hectares
Location: Alabata Road, Abeokuta, Ogun State
Founded: 1 January 1988
Email: registrar@funaab.edu.ng
Website: https://www.funaab.edu.ng
FUNAAB was established on 1 January 1988 after the federal government dissolved four technological universities that had been merged in 1984. The university spans 10,000 hectares. Its vision is to be a center of excellence in knowledge generation for global development and environmental sustainability.
4. Federal University of Technology, Minna (FUTMinna) – 10,650 Hectares
Location: Minna, Niger State
Founded: 1983
Email: info@futminna.edu.ng
Website: https://www.futminna.edu.ng
FUTMinna covers approximately 10,650 hectares, making it one of the largest universities in Nigeria by land area. Located in Niger State, its vast campus accommodates academic buildings, research centers, student housing, and agricultural projects. The large size supports its focus on science, technology, and innovation, and allows for future growth. FUTMinna is also recognized among the top ten best universities in Nigeria, particularly for its science programs.
3. University of Abuja – 11,824 Hectares
Location: Gwagwalada, Abuja
Founded: 1 January 1988
Email: info@uniabuja.edu.ng
Website: https://www.uniabuja.edu.ng
The University of Abuja operates a mini campus in Gwagwalada and a permanent site covering about 11,824 hectares along the Kaduna-Lokoja-Abuja Road. The university began academic activities on the mini campus in 1990. That same year, it was allocated over 11,800 hectares along the Abuja Airport road for its main campus. The institution offers 1,539 courses and has 15,000 students and 1,700 lecturers. According to the 4icu ranking, it is among the top 15 best universities in Nigeria.
2. Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile Ife (OAU) – 13,000 Hectares
Location: Ile-Ife, Osun State
Founded: 1961
Email: info@oauife.edu.ng
Website: https://www.oauife.edu.ng
Obafemi Awolowo University covers about 13,000 hectares, making it one of the largest universities in Nigeria by land mass. Located in Osun State, its extensive grounds support academic facilities, student hostels, farms, and natural reserves. The large area allows for future expansion and reflects the university's commitment to education, research, and sustainability. OAU is also ranked among the world's best universities, placing 1658 globally.
1. University of Ilorin – 15,000 Hectares
Location: Ilorin, Kwara State
Founded: 25 October 1976
Email: registrar@unilorin.edu.ng
Website: https://www.unilorin.edu.ng
The University of Ilorin tops the list as the largest university in Nigeria, occupying 15,000 hectares. It is located about 500 km from Abuja and 300 km from Lagos. The university is one of the first in sub-Saharan Africa to maintain uninterrupted academic programs for over 16 years. In August 2018, Vanguard reported that the university earmarked 5,000 hectares of its land for commercial farming by staff and students. Prof. Sulyman Abdulkareem, the Vice-Chancellor, stated that only five percent of the total landmass is currently in use. This sheer size also makes it the largest university in Africa.
Top Ten Largest Universities in Nigeria in 2026
- University of Ilorin – 15,000 hectares
- Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile Ife – 13,000 hectares
- University of Abuja (now Yakubu Gowon University) – 11,824 hectares
- Federal University of Technology, Minna – 10,600 hectares
- Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta – 10,000 hectares
- Ahmadu Bello University – 7,000 hectares
- Usman Dan Fodio University, Sokoto – 6,000 hectares
- Federal University of Technology, Owerri – 4,048 hectares
- University of Nigeria – 3,700 hectares
- University of Benin – 2,500 hectares
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the biggest university in Nigeria by population?
The National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN) is the largest by enrollment, with over 515,000 students as of 2018.
What is the best school in Nigeria in 2026?
Covenant University stands out as a top choice due to its strong industry ties and global outlook. Other notable institutions include Ahmadu Bello University and the University of Ibadan.
Private university ranking in Nigeria
- Covenant University (Ota, Ogun State)
- Landmark University (Omu-Aran, Kwara State)
- Afe Babalola University (ABUAD) (Ado-Ekiti, Ekiti State)
- American University of Nigeria (AUN) (Yola, Adamawa State)
- Babcock University (Ilishan-Remo, Ogun State)
Which is the best university of technology in Nigeria in 2026?
The Federal University of Technology, Akure (FUTA) is widely recognized as a leading institution for technological education. The University of Lagos (UNILAG) also holds a strong academic reputation.
What is the most expensive university in Nigeria?
Wigwe University in Isiokpo, Rivers State, is the most expensive, with annual tuition fees around N12 million, excluding accommodation and other costs.
Which state university is the best in Nigeria in 2026?
Lagos State University (LASU) is often regarded as the leading state-owned university, frequently earning top positions in national and international rankings.
Now you know which universities are the largest in Nigeria by land mass in 2026. While some institutions like the National Open University of Nigeria may not have large land areas, they enroll more students than those with vast campuses.
