West Africa’s university landscape is witnessing notable advancements. According to data drawn from the Times Higher Education (THE) World University Rankings 2026, several universities are being recognized for their strong academic performances, research qualities, and international engagements.
The Times Higher Education World University Rankings assessed 2,191 universities in 115 countries. The University of Oxford maintained the number one spot for the tenth consecutive year across the globe, backed by its strong research environment.
The rankings are as follows:
Top 10 Universities in West Africa for 2026
1. University of Cape Coast, Ghana
- Rank: 801–1000
- Overall Score: 35.5–38.9
Topping the list is the University of Cape Coast (UCC). It ranks as the highest-placed university in Ghana and West Africa in 2026. UCC features in the 801–1000 band of the global THE rankings, reflecting improvements in research influence and academic environment.
Performance indicators that placed UCC higher as the best University in West Africa include:
- Teaching: 18.2
- Research Environment: 22.1
- Research Quality: 63.3
- Industry Income: 33.3
- International Outlook: 44.9
2. University of Ibadan, Nigeria
- Rank: 801–1000
- Score: 35.5–38.9
Nigeria’s University of Ibadan (UI) ranks second in the region. As the country’s first degree-granting institution, it continues to be a leader in research output and postgraduate training. UI also appears within the 801–1000 global ranking brackets this year.
Performance indicators that were used to place UI as the second top University in West Africa include:
- Teaching: 29.6
- Research Environment: 15.6
- Research Quality: 63.5
- Industry Income: 22.1
- International Outlook: 43.8
3. University of Lagos, Nigeria
- Rank: 801–1000
- Score: 35.5–38.9
Closely following UI is the University of Lagos (UNILAG). UNILAG has built a reputation for quality teaching and research, with presence in global ranking bands.
Key performance indicators that placed UNILAG as the third best University in West Africa include:
- Teaching: 18.4
- Research Environment: 20.1
- Research Quality: 66.7
- Industry Income: 32.6
- International Outlook: 45.6
4. Bayero University Kano, Nigeria
- Rank: 1001–1200
- Score: 32.1–35.4
Bayero University Kano (BUK) rounds out the top four. The institution is noted for strong faculties in health sciences, natural sciences, and engineering, and it continues to expand its research profile and industry relevance.
Performance Indicators that placed BUK as the 4th best University in West Africa:
- Teaching: 22.5
- Research Environment: 11.0
- Research Quality: 60.7
- Industry Income: 18.0
- International Outlook: 49.6
5. Covenant University, Nigeria
- Rank: 1001–1200
- Score: 32.1–35.4
Covenant University is ranked fifth in the region, making it one of the best private Universities in West Africa. Known for emphasis on leadership, innovation, and technology, Covenant has improved its research and industry engagement over recent years.
Performance Indicators that placed Covenant University as the 5th best University in West Africa:
- Teaching: 21.6
- Research Environment: 27.5
- Research Quality: 50.8
- Industry Income: 55.7
- International Outlook: 42.3
6. Landmark University, Nigeria
- Rank: 1001–1200
- Score: 32.1–35.4
Emerging as a centre for agricultural sciences and entrepreneurship, Landmark University secures its place among the top West African universities. Its curriculum focuses on sustainable development and technology-driven solutions.
Performance Indicators that placed Landmark University as the 6th best University in West Africa:
- Teaching: 20.2
- Research Environment: 18.4
- Research Quality: 61.9
- Industry Income: 22.1
- International Outlook: 37.2
7. University of Ghana, Ghana
- Rank: 1001–1200
- Score: 32.1–35.4
The University of Ghana (UG, Legon) is one of the oldest and most influential institutions in the region, features prominently in the rankings. UG’s strong international outlook and research collaborations continue to enhance its regional standing.
Performance Indicators that placed University of Ghana as the 7th best University in West Africa:
- Teaching: 17.0
- Research Environment: 32.2
- Research Quality: 49.2
- Industry Income: 46.8
- International Outlook: 50.3
8. Ahmadu Bello University, Nigeria
- Rank: 1201–1500
- Score: 27.3–32.0
As one of Nigeria’s largest universities, Ahmadu Bello University (ABU) https://abu.edu.ng/remains influential in research and teaching across disciplines. Its legacy in science, technology, and liberal arts represents enduring academic strength.
Performance Indicators that placed ABU as the eighth best University in West Africa:
- Teaching: 24.3
- Research Environment: 10.0
- Research Quality: 58.9
- Industry Income: 20.6
- International Outlook: 44.2
9. Federal University of Technology, Minna, Nigeria
- Rank: 1201–1500
- Score: 27.3–32.0
The Federal University of Technology, Minna rounds out the top nine. Known for its focus on engineering and applied sciences, FUT Minna plays an increasing role in technological education in West Africa.
- Performance Indicators:
- Teaching: 22.3
- Research Environment: 8.5
- Research Quality: 51.8
- Industry Income: 17.8
- International Outlook: 44.6
10. Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Ghana
- Rank: 1201–1500
- Score: 27.3–32.0
Finally, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST) secures the tenth position. With strong programmes in engineering, health sciences, and natural sciences, KNUST continues to expand research output and industry linkages.
Performance indicators:
- Teaching: 17.7
- Research Environment: 16.6
- Research Quality: 53.3
- Industry Income: 26.7
- International Outlook: 46.5
