AUN, MAAUN shine in world university ranking 2026

The American University of Nigeria (AUN), Yola, and the Maryam Abacha American University of Nigeria (MAAUN), Kano, have emerged among the Nigerian universities featured in the prestigious 2026 Times Higher Education (THE) World University Rankings, reaffirming the growing contribution of private universities to the advancement of higher education in the country.

A total of 24 Nigerian universities have secured a place in the 2026 global rankings, including 17 public universities and seven private universities.

Among the recognized private universities were the two American-style universities – MAAUN in Kano and AUN in Yola – along with other prominent institutions including Nile University and Al-Hikmah University.

Leading the Nigerian contingent in the ranking are renowned institutions such as the University of Ibadan, University of Lagos and Bayero University, Kano, reflecting the country’s growing presence in global academic ratings.

For MAAUN, the achievement represents another significant milestone in just 4 years of foundation. The university’s inclusion in the Times Higher Education rankings is widely seen as evidence of its commitment to academic excellence, research development, innovation and the provision of quality education.

The recognition comes on the heels of the university’s impressive performance in the AD Scientific Index, where it has been ranked among the leading institutions in previous assessments, further underlining its growing reputation in Nigeria’s academic landscape.

Speaking on the development, Professor Ahmed Maigari, reiterated the institute’s commitment to achieving global academic standards.

“We are committed to learning, research and innovation. Our aim is to make Nigeria proud by positioning MAAUN among the world’s leading universities. We have invested heavily in modern facilities and attracted highly talented scholars who continue to distinguish themselves through impactful research and quality teaching,” he said.

Professor Maigari noted that the university’s presence in the 2026 Times Higher Education Rankings is testament to years of strategic investment in human capital, infrastructure and research excellence.

“After recording success in the AD Scientific Index, our inclusion in the 2026 Times Higher Education Rankings is another indication that we are moving in the right direction. We aspire to become one of the top 100 universities globally in the coming years,” he added.

Commenting on the development, Dr. Buhari Abdullahi of the Department of Engineering, Dutsin-Ma Federal University described the emergence of MAAUN and AUN in global rankings as a positive development for Nigeria’s education sector.

“MAAUN is a perfect example of focused investment in education. The university has excellent learning facilities, a conducive academic environment and scholars who are making significant contributions to research and dissemination of knowledge. I am not surprised to see the institution gain international recognition,” he said.

Education stakeholders have continued to laud the growing visibility of Nigerian private universities in global rankings, describing it as an indication that sustained investment, innovation and commitment to quality assurance can position Nigerian institutions competitively on the world stage.

The inclusion of MAAUN and other private universities in the 2026 Times Higher Education World University Rankings is therefore seen not only as an institutional achievement but also as a source of pride for Nigeria’s higher education sector, demonstrating that private universities are playing an increasingly vital role in promoting academic excellence, research productivity and global competitiveness.