The 2025 AD Scientific Index ranking has recognized Covenant University, Ota, as the leading private university in Nigeria.
Following closely behind in second place is Maryam Abacha American University (MAAUN).
According to the “Africa 450 Private Universities Rankings 2025,” Covenant University clinched the first position, with American University in Cairo and Mohammed VI Polytechnic of Morocco claiming the second and third spots, respectively.
MAAUN secured an impressive fourth place in the African category.
The AD Scientific Index highlights that its university rankings not only reveal the areas in which an institution excels or focuses, but also reflect the results of their scientific recruitment policies.
“This feature reveals the ability of institutions to attract successful scientists and the ability of institutions to promote advances and retain scientists.
“‘AD Scientific Index’ is the only university/institution ranking system that analyses the distribution of scientists in an institution according to the top %10, %20, %40, %60, %80 percentiles and total scientists,” the statement added.
Reacting, Prof. Junaid Amin of the African Centre for Research and Innovation at MAAUN, described the latest ranking as a stepping stone for the university.
Mr Amin said: “It’s high time that we did a complete overhaul of the education system globally, employing the best lecturers, and equipping our universities with the best facilities.
“MAAUN achieving this feat in 4 years is not surprising. The founder has proved his commitment to standard and internationalisation.
“I’m seeing a brighter future for the university in coming years with this achievement in just 4 years.
“It is high time that we move from traditional teaching to experiential learning,” he added.
Meanwhile, Covenant University was founded in 2002 while MAAUN was established in 2021 by renowned philanthropist, Prof. Adamu Abubakar Gwarzo.
