Full List of Universities in Nigeria with Highest Percentage of International Students

Full List of Universities in Nigeria with Highest Percentage of International Students

  • Nigeria is steadily becoming a destination for international students, with several universities welcoming learners from across Africa and beyond
  • Recent data from Business Insider Africa highlights institutions with the highest percentages of foreign enrolments, showcasing the country’s growing role in global education
  • From Nasarawa State University leading with 13% to others like Veritas University and the University of Maiduguri, these figures reflect Nigeria’s expanding academic appeal

Nigeria is home to a growing number of international students, with several universities attracting learners from across Africa and beyond.

According to Business Insider Africa, here are the universities in Nigeria with the highest percentage of international students.

Veritas University in Abuja welcomes global learners seeking quality higher education in Nigeria.
Nasarawa State University attracts international students with strong academic programmes and cultural diversity. Photo credit: Frédéric Soltan/Getty Images
Source: Getty Images

Nasarawa State University, Keffi – 13%

Nasarawa State University leads the list with 13% international students. Located in Keffi, Nasarawa State, the institution has become a hub for students seeking quality education in a welcoming environment.

The university is known for its commitment to academic excellence and community development, attracting students from within Nigeria and abroad. W

Read also

36 students win big at 23rd annual national mathematics competition

ith a diverse student body, it fosters cultural exchange and collaboration. Notably, it has the highest percentage of international students in Nigeria at 13%, making it a key centre for global learning and educational growth.

Veritas University, Abuja – 6%

Veritas University in Abuja follows with 6% international students. Known for its private university status and strong academic programmes, it continues to attract learners from diverse backgrounds.

University of Maiduguri – 4%

The University of Maiduguri records 4% international students. Despite being situated in a region with unique challenges, the institution remains a centre of learning for students from neighbouring countries.

Osun State University – 3%

Osun State University has 3% international students. Its multiple campuses across Osun State provide a wide range of academic opportunities, making it appealing to foreign learners.

Osun State University provides opportunities for foreign students through its multi‑campus learning system.
The University of Maiduguri hosts international students and promotes cross‑border academic collaboration. Photo credit: Nile University
Source: UGC

Nile University of Nigeria – 1%

Nile University of Nigeria, based in Abuja, has 1% international students. The university is recognised for its modern facilities and international collaborations, which help attract students from abroad.

Rivers State University – 1%

Rivers State University also hosts 1% international students. Located in Port Harcourt, it is one of the leading institutions in the Niger Delta region.

Read also

UNILAG emerges first as FG awards N50m each to 45 students

University of Ibadan – 1%

The University of Ibadan, Nigeria’s oldest university, has 1% international students. Its reputation as a premier academic institution continues to draw learners from across Africa.

University of Nigeria, Nsukka – 1%

The University of Nigeria, Nsukka, completes the list with 1% international students. As one of the country’s most prestigious universities, it remains a destination for those seeking high-quality education.

While the percentages vary, these universities highlight Nigeria’s growing role in international education. This trend reflects Nigeria’s expanding influence in higher education across Africa, offering opportunities for cultural exchange and academic growth.

NUC lists 58 fake universities in Nigeria

Legit.ng earlier reported that the National Universities Commission (NUC) has issued a stern warning to the public regarding the operations of 58 fake universities currently running illegally across Nigeria.

The regulatory body stated that these institutions are not accredited and have been operating without approval, thereby putting unsuspecting students at risk of obtaining invalid degrees.

In addition to the 58 fake universities, the NUC revealed that eight other institutions are currently under investigation for allegedly running unauthorised degree programmes.

Source: Legit.ng

Authors:
Basit Jamiu avatar

Basit Jamiu (Current Affairs and Politics Editor) Basit Jamiu is an AFP-certified journalist. He is a current affairs and politics editor at Legit.ng. He holds a bachelor's degree from Nasarawa State University (2023). Basit previously worked as a staff writer at Ikeja Bird (2022), Associate Editor at Prime Progress (2022). He is a 2025 CRA Grantee, 2024 Open Climate Fellow (West Africa), 2023 MTN Media Fellow. Email: basitjamiu1st@gmail.com and basit.jamiu@corp.legit.ng.