Okebukola Commends Nigerian Universities Featured in 2026 Times Higher Education Rankings

The Chairman of the Nigerian Universities Ranking Advisory Committee (NURAC), Professor Emeritus Peter Okebukola, has commended Nigerian universities that appeared in the 2026 Times Higher Education (THE) World University Rankings, released on Thursday. In a statement issued in Abuja, Okebukola said the inclusion of several Nigerian institutions in the latest ranking reflects gradual progress in […]

The Chairman of the Nigerian Universities Ranking Advisory Committee (NURAC), Professor Emeritus Peter Okebukola, has commended Nigerian universities that appeared in the 2026 Times Higher Education (THE) World University Rankings, released on Thursday.

In a statement issued in Abuja, Okebukola said the inclusion of several Nigerian institutions in the latest ranking reflects gradual progress in the country’s higher education sector.

He noted that the Times Higher Education World University Rankings assess institutions globally using 18 performance indicators across five key areas — teaching, research environment, research quality, international outlook, and industry engagement.

According to him, the ranking system remains one of the most comprehensive frameworks for evaluating global universities, trusted by students, academics, and policymakers.

Okebukola explained that Nigerian universities have continued to feature in various Times Higher Education ranking categories, including the Impact Rankings, Sub-Saharan Africa Rankings, and Subject Rankings.

He attributed the improving visibility of Nigerian universities to the ongoing efforts of the National Universities Commission (NUC), university administrators, and researchers.

Okebukola also outlined strategies for enhancing Nigeria’s performance in future global rankings. These include increased investment in research and development, stronger international collaborations, improved infrastructure, and governance reforms across higher institutions.

He further advised universities to focus on boosting research output, staff development, and innovation-driven partnerships with industry to strengthen their global competitiveness.

The NURAC chairman reaffirmed the committee’s commitment to supporting the implementation of the NUC Strategic Plan (2024–2030), aimed at improving the standing of Nigerian universities in global rankings by the end of the decade.

Members of the Nigerian Universities Ranking Advisory Committee include Professor Olanrewaju Fagbohun (Southwest), Professor Chinedum Nwajiuba (Southeast), Professor Joseph Ajienka (South-South), Professor Jibrila Amin (Northeast), Professor Muhammad Bello (Northwest), and Professor Angela Miri (North-Central).

Okebukola commended the new NUC leadership under Professor Emeritus Olu Aina, Chairman of the NUC Board, and Professor Abdullahi Ribadu, Executive Secretary of the Commission, expressing optimism that their administration will further strengthen the quality and reputation of Nigerian universities.