Top Universities In Ogun State: A Guide For Students And Parents

Ah, Ogun State! The land of culture, intellect, and arguably one of the most university-packed states in Nigeria. If you're here because you (or your child, cousin, neighbor's nephew) want to study in Ogun State, then welcome. You're in safe hands.

As someone who has lived through the stress of writing UTME, waiting for admission lists that seem to never come, and comparing universities like you’re choosing between jollof and fried rice, I totally understand what you’re feeling.

This blog post is for you—the admission seeker trying to choose the best school, the parent looking for value for money, or just someone trying to make sense of the options. So, grab a chilled drink (preferably zobo or chapman), and let’s explore the top universities in Ogun State like we're sitting together and gisting about it.

1. Covenant University, Ota – The Harvard of Nigerian Private Schools

Let’s start with the one that always makes the headlines. Covenant University (CU), located in Ota, is like the Beyoncé of Nigerian universities. It’s private, polished, and prestigious.

Established in 2002 by Bishop David Oyedepo’s Living Faith Church, this school has taken private university education in Nigeria to another level. When you think of discipline, technology, excellent infrastructure, and faith-based grooming, CU checks every box.

Why Students Love It:

• Very low tolerance for unseriousness. This school doesn't joke.

• Amazing ICT facilities, modern classrooms, and air-conditioned lecture halls.

• Globally ranked (yes, they’ve appeared in Times Higher Education rankings).

• A structured calendar that means no unnecessary ASUU strikes or delays.

Why Parents Love It:

• Strong moral values, safety, and a sense of community.

• Their children graduate on time. Imagine finishing your 4-year course in actual 4 years in Nigeria. What a dream!

• It’s like investing in your child’s future—and it actually pays off.

Heads-Up:

It’s not cheap. Fees range between ₦700,000–₦1,000,000 per session depending on your course. But for many, it’s worth every kobo.

2. Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta (FUNAAB) – The Brainbox of the Farm and Lab

Now to one of the OGs. FUNAAB is one of Nigeria’s three federal universities of agriculture, and honestly, it's giving premium academic vibes.

Founded in 1988, it has grown to become a top destination for students passionate about Agriculture, Engineering, Natural Sciences, and related fields. But don’t be fooled—FUNAAB isn’t just about farm tools and greenhouses. They offer a wide range of science and technology courses too.

Why Students Love It:

• Affordable tuition. Being a federal school means you don’t have to break the bank.

• Solid research opportunities, especially in agriculture, veterinary science, and environmental science.

• A beautiful campus with enough space to walk, reflect, and take IG-worthy pictures.

Why Parents Love It:

• Federal universities still command respect. You don’t even need to say much—just say "My child is in FUNAAB," and watch the nods of approval roll in.

• Low fees and high value? Every parent’s dream combo.

3. Olabisi Onabanjo University (OOU), Ago Iwoye – Ogun’s Own Superstar

Let’s talk about OOU—formerly Ogun State University. This one is for the hustlers, the go-getters, the people who can navigate multiple campuses and still come out with distinction.

Established in 1982, OOU is a state university that offers almost every course you can think of—from Law to Medicine, Mass Communication to Engineering, Business to Political Science.

Why Students Love It:

• Large and diverse student population means you’ll never feel alone.

• Active student life. If you want both education and vibrant social experiences, OOU has the balance.

• Alumni everywhere! OOU grads are scattered all over Nigeria and doing big things.

Why Parents Love It:

• The prestige of a long-standing institution.

• More affordable than most private options, yet widely respected.

• Offers all the major courses, so there's no need to “send them to another state.”

4. Babcock University, Ilishan-Remo – Where Morals and Medicine Meet

If you're looking for a university that blends strong Christian values with modern education, then Babcock is your guy.

Operated by the Seventh-day Adventist Church, Babcock was founded in 1959 and became a university in 1999. It's especially popular for its Medical School, Law program, and Management Sciences.

Why Students Love It:

• Discipline meets comfort. No unnecessary distractions.

• Lovely campus and excellent hostel facilities.

• A lot of international partnerships and global exposure.

Why Parents Love It:

• Very strict on moral conduct (think dress codes, curfews, etc.).

• Medical students graduate on time and go straight into housemanship without ASUU delays.

But...

It’s private, so yes, it costs money. Around ₦600,000–₦1,200,000 depending on your course. But you do get value for your money.

5. Tai Solarin University of Education (TASUED), Ijagun, Ijebu-Ode – For the Future Teachers

Now here’s a university with a clear focus: education. TASUED is Nigeria’s premier university of education, founded in 2005.

It’s ideal for those who see themselves teaching, writing curriculum, running educational NGOs, or working in child psychology.

Why Students Love It:

• You get a degree and a teaching license all in one. Two for the price of one!

• TASUED has built a strong reputation in teacher education circles.

• Student body is close-knit, and the town is peaceful.

Why Parents Love It:

• Extremely affordable tuition.

• Clear career path. You study Education, and you’re almost guaranteed employment in schools, especially private ones.

6. Bells University of Technology, Ota – The Tech-Powered Trailblazer

Founded in 2005 by former president Olusegun Obasanjo, Bells University is Nigeria’s first private university of technology.

Located just beside Covenant University in Ota (yes, tech giants live in that town), Bells focuses on Engineering, Computer Science, Biotechnology, and other applied sciences.

Why Students Love It:

• If you're tech-minded, this is your playground.

• Small class sizes = better lecturer attention.

• Modern labs, Wi-Fi-enabled campuses, and practical-based learning.

Why Parents Love It:

• Strong focus on employability and innovation.

• A bit more relaxed than CU but still structured.

7. Crescent University, Abeokuta – Faith Meets Academia (Islamic Values)

Founded in 2005 by the Islamic Mission for Africa, Crescent University is a private Islamic institution that’s known for providing a strong academic foundation while staying grounded in Islamic values.

Courses range from Law to ICT, Mass Communication to Economics.

Why Students Love It:

• Serene environment perfect for focused study.

• Opportunity to pursue academics without compromising faith.

Why Parents Love It:

• Moral and religious structure.

• Mid-range fees for a private school.

• Professional programs with good job prospects.

8. McPherson University, Seriki-Sotayo – Small School, Big Dreams

McPherson was established by the Foursquare Gospel Church in 2012, and while it’s not as big as others, it prides itself on quality.

With faculties in Natural and Applied Sciences, Management, and Humanities, it's a great place for students who want a tight-knit academic community.

Why Students Love It:

• Small school means everyone knows everyone.

• Individual attention from lecturers.

• Peaceful and distraction-free environment.

9. Crawford University, Igbesa – Learning With Godliness

Crawford is another faith-based university, this one established by the Apostolic Faith Mission in 2005.

Its slogan “Knowledge with Godliness” tells you everything. Courses span Business, Sciences, and Arts.

Why Students Love It:

• Simple, clean environment.

• Blend of academics and spiritual development.

Why Parents Love It:

• Emphasis on morality and values.

• Affordable compared to many private schools.

10. Chrisland University, Abeokuta – Small but Mighty

One of the newer kids on the block, Chrisland University began in 2015 but has quickly built a reputation for nurturing students academically and emotionally.

It focuses on Nursing, Computer Science, Criminology, Psychology, and other modern courses.

Why It’s Worth Watching:

• Young, vibrant, and energetic academic culture.

• Affordable compared to others in the same tier.

• Great lecturer-to-student ratio.

Summary Table

Final Thoughts: Choose What Fits YOU

At the end of the day, choosing a university is personal. There’s no “one size fits all.” Covenant is excellent—but not everyone wants that level of discipline. OOU is great—but maybe you want a smaller crowd. Babcock offers structure—but it may stretch your budget.

So here’s my advice:

• Know what you want. Don’t follow the crowd.

• Talk to current students. Get the inside gist.

• Think long-term. Will this school help you become the person you dream of being?

Whichever you choose, be proud. You’re about to begin an amazing chapter of your life. And if you're a parent reading this—thank you for caring so deeply about your child's future.

Here’s to making the best choice—and thriving in it! 🥂