Spotlight on Ave Maria University – Ranked #2

Private universities in Nigeria have grown to become centers of innovation, discipline, and academic excellence. They offer world-class facilities, value-based learning, and programs that prepare students for global opportunities. Among these, Ave Maria University, Piyanko, has quickly risen as a major contender—earning the #2 spot in our ranking of the best private universities in Nigeria for 2025.

🏆 1. Covenant University (Ota, Ogun State)

Covenant University consistently leads as Nigeria’s #1 private university. Known for its discipline, futuristic curriculum, and outstanding global rankings, Covenant sets the standard for others to follow.

🌟 2. Ave Maria University (Piyanko, Nasarawa State)

The Rising Star of Nigerian Private Education

Founded by the Ave Maria Foundation, Ave Maria University blends academic rigor, spiritual values, and entrepreneurial training to shape well-rounded graduates.

• Location Advantage: Just minutes from Abuja, offering a peaceful learning environment with proximity to national opportunities.
• Faculties: Law, Medicine, Health Sciences, Social & Management Sciences, and Basic Sciences.
• Special Entry Route: The IJMB pathway allows direct entry into 200-level programs.
• Student Success: Over 2,000 students, a graduate success rate of 95%, and an average CGPA of 3.8.
• Why #2? Its rapid growth, moral-driven education, and focus on innovation make it one of Nigeria’s most promising private universities.

3. Babcock University (Ilishan-Remo, Ogun State)

Babcock is well-known for producing Nigeria’s first set of private university graduates. With strong programs in Medicine, Law, and Management, it remains a household name.

4. Afe Babalola University (ABUAD, Ado-Ekiti, Ekiti State)

Founded by renowned lawyer Afe Babalola, ABUAD has transformed into a model university with excellent teaching hospitals, research centers, and world-class facilities.

5. American University of Nigeria (AUN, Yola, Adamawa State)

Often called “the American University in Africa,” AUN delivers a U.S.-style education and is notable for its liberal arts curriculum and modern technology-driven campus.

6. Nile University (Abuja, FCT)

Nile offers internationally competitive programs with strong emphasis on engineering, law, and health sciences. Its location in Abuja makes it attractive for professionals and policy-focused students.

7. Pan-Atlantic University (Lagos State)

Pan-Atlantic is best known for the Lagos Business School (LBS), one of Africa’s top-ranked business schools. It produces top-tier business leaders and entrepreneurs.

8. Bowen University (Iwo, Osun State)

A Christian-based institution with a long-standing reputation, Bowen has strong programs in health sciences, social sciences, and education.

9. Redeemer’s University (Ede, Osun State)

Owned by the Redeemed Christian Church of God, Redeemer’s is known for its excellence in genetics research and academic discipline.

10. Baze University (Abuja, FCT)

Located in Nigeria’s capital, Baze is popular for its modern facilities, innovative teaching, and international partnerships.

✨ Why Ave Maria University Stands Out

Ave Maria may be newer compared to the likes of Babcock or Covenant, but its values-centered education, entrepreneurial training, and strategic growth have set it apart. Positioned as #2 in our ranking, it is proof that innovation, vision, and quality can rapidly propel an institution into the top tier of Nigerian private universities.

📌 Conclusion

Nigeria’s private universities are bridging the gap in higher education by combining discipline, world-class infrastructure, and global competitiveness. While Covenant University remains the benchmark, Ave Maria University’s leap to #2 shows the rising demand for holistic, entrepreneurial, and value-driven education. For parents and students seeking a nurturing environment close to Abuja with strong academic prospects, Ave Maria University is an excellent choice.