LASU Emerges Nigeria’s Most Sought-After University With 84,426 Applicants
The Governor of Lagos State, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has expressed delight over the latest achievement of the Lagos State University (LASU), which has emerged as Nigeria’s most sought-after university in the 2026 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME).
According to data released by the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB), LASU attracted 84,426 applicants, placing it ahead of other top tertiary institutions in the country. The University of Lagos followed with 78,240 applicants, while Obafemi Awolowo University recorded 60,370. The University of Ibadan and the University of Benin completed the top five with 58,895 and 55,425 applicants respectively.
Sanwo-Olu described LASU’s ranking as a reflection of consistent progress, improved academic standards and the state government’s sustained investment in education. He reiterated his administration’s ambition of positioning LASU among the top 10 universities globally.
He attributed the university’s rising profile to deliberate policies aimed at creating a strong academic environment that promotes excellence, innovation and long-term development. According to him, the performance underscores the impact of the THEMES Plus Agenda, particularly in education, technology and human capital development.
The Governor also praised the leadership of Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Ibiyemi Olatunji-Bello, noting that her administration has played a key role in repositioning LASU through reforms in academic delivery, infrastructure upgrade and research development.
He commended staff and students of the institution for their dedication and urged them to sustain the momentum that has earned the university national recognition as the most preferred higher institution in Nigeria.
Sanwo-Olu reaffirmed the state government’s commitment to continued investment in LASU, stressing that the institution will remain a key driver in shaping future leaders and advancing educational excellence in Lagos and beyond.
