LASU ranked as the most preferred university in Nigeria for the 2026 UTME

Lagos State University (LASU) has been identified as the most preferred university in Nigeria for the 2026 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME), based on data released by the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB).

The Lagos state government said the result earned praise from Governor Babajide Sanwo‑Olu, who called the outcome further evidence of the university’s growing reputation for academic excellence and national relevance.

JAMB figures indicate that the state‑owned university received 84,426 applications, putting it ahead of all other tertiary institutions nationwide.

The University of Lagos (UNILAG) ranked second with 78,240 applicants, while Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU) placed third with 60,370 applicants. The University of Ibadan and the University of Benin followed with 58,895 and 55,425 applications respectively.

Governor Sanwo‑Olu welcomed the ranking, noting that LASU continues to strengthen its position as a leading Nigerian institution.

He reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to positioning LASU among the world’s top ten universities.

“LASU’s improved performance is a direct result of the Lagos State Government’s focus on fostering an academic environment that leads to prosperity,” the governor said.

According to the governor, the university’s rising profile reflects deliberate state investment in education and the creation of an enabling academic environment.

He added that the institution’s better standing stems from efforts to promote innovation, quality learning and prosperity within the education sector.

The governor described the achievement as a major milestone in LASU’s 41‑year history, emphasizing the university’s continued distinction in academic excellence, discipline and global competitiveness.

Sanwo‑Olu applauded LASU for maintaining its status as the most sought‑after university in the country.

He attributed the university’s success to “visionary leadership, dedicated faculty, and students,” supported by the THEMES Plus Agenda, which prioritises funding and technological advancement in education.

The governor also praised LASU Vice‑Chancellor Prof. Ibiyemi Olatunji‑Bello for what he called transformative leadership that has enhanced the institution’s ranking and reputation.

He noted that her administration has introduced innovative learning methods and positioned the university for both national and international recognition.

Sanwo‑Olu further commended LASU for producing quality graduates and maintaining high‑standard infrastructure, assuring that the university will continue to play a major role in shaping the future of young Nigerians.

He encouraged university staff and students to remain committed to sustaining LASU’s position as Nigeria’s most preferred university.