The 2025 AD Scientific Index ranking has named Covenant University, Ota, as the best private university in Nigeria, with Maryam Abacha American University (MAAUN) securing the second position.
According to the ranking published on the AD Scientific website under the title Africa 450 Private Universities Rankings 2025, Covenant University claimed the top spot in Nigeria and ranked first in Africa. The American University in Cairo followed in second place, while Mohammed VI Polytechnic University in Morocco secured third place, with MAAUN ranking fourth on the continent.
The AD Scientific Index highlighted that university rankings reflect not only the focus and strengths of an institution but also the impact of their scientific recruitment policies.
“This feature reveals the ability of institutions to attract successful scientists and promote academic advancement while retaining top researchers. AD Scientific Index is the only ranking system that analyzes the distribution of scientists in an institution across the top 10%, 20%, 40%, 60%, and 80% percentiles,” the statement explained.
Reacting to the latest ranking, Prof. Junaid Amin of the African Centre for Research and Innovation at MAAUN described the achievement as a significant milestone for the university.
“It’s time for a complete overhaul of the global education system by employing top-tier lecturers and equipping universities with state-of-the-art facilities. MAAUN achieving this feat within just four years is not surprising, as the founder has consistently demonstrated a commitment to excellence and international standards,” Amin stated.
He expressed optimism about the university’s future, adding, “With this achievement in just four years, I see a brighter future ahead. It is time we shift from traditional teaching methods to experiential learning.”
Covenant University was founded in 2002, while MAAUN was established in 2021 by renowned philanthropist, Prof. Adamu Abubakar Gwarzo.
