List of Higher Institutions In Ekiti State Nigeria

Education is the most viable industry of the people of Ekiti State, hence the people are in the fore front of educational development in Nigeria.

Higher institutions in Ekiti State encompass a variety of universities, polytechnics, colleges of education, and specialized schools, each offering different academic and professional programs. The state hosts federal, state, and private universities, with each type playing a unique role in the education landscape. For instance, federal universities like the Federal University, Oye-Ekiti, focus on providing broad and diverse academic disciplines with an emphasis on integrating technology and entrepreneurial education. State universities such as Ekiti State University and Bamidele Olumilua University of Education, Science and Technology emphasize community service, research, and teacher education. Private universities, notably Afe Babalola University, are recognized for their modern facilities, innovative approaches to education, and stringent quality standards set by regulatory bodies like the National Universities Commission.

Additionally, the region includes polytechnics and colleges that provide vocational training and professional skills, contributing to the state’s educational diversity and addressing the needs of various student groups. Technical colleges and specialized schools in health and nursing further support professional education and training. The institutions vary in size, scope, and focus but collectively contribute to Ekiti State’s reputation as a center for higher learning, fostering academic excellence, research, and skill development across multiple disciplines.

List of Higher Institutions In Ekiti State Nigeria

The complete list of the higher institutions in Ekiti State Nigeria are divided into Federal, State and Private category.

There are number of higher institutions in Ekiti State, including both federal and private universities: Federal University, Oye-Ekiti (FUOYE), Federal University of Technology and Environmental Studies, Iyin-Ekiti, Ekiti State University, Ado Ekiti and Bamidele Olumilua University of Education, Science and Technology (BOUESTI).

There are also notable private universities, such as Afe Babalola University, Hillside University of Science and Technology, and Venite University, all of which are recognized for their focus on academic excellence, infrastructure, and specialized programs in fields like engineering, law, medicine, and management sciences.​

In total, including the newly established federal university, Ekiti State officially hosts four major higher institutions, contributing significantly to Nigeria’s higher education landscape.

Federal Universities in Ekiti State

Federal Universities in Ekiti State, particularly the Federal University Oye-Ekiti (FUOYE), are highly regarded for their academic excellence, rapid growth, and impactful community engagement. FUOYE recently ranked 11th among Nigerian universities and entered the 1501+ category globally according to the 2026 Times Higher Education World University Rankings, reflecting its progress in research, innovation, and quality teaching. Ekiti State has two federal universities, each with distinct attributes:

1. Federal University, Oye-Ekiti, Ekiti State

Federal University, Oye-Ekiti is a  public higher-education institution located in the rural setting of the large town of Oye-Ekiti. This institution also has a branch campus in Ikole. Officially recognized by the National Universities Commission of Nigeria, Federal University, Oye-Ekiti (FUOYE) is a medium-sized  coeducational Nigerian higher education institution.

The Federal University, Oye-Ekiti (FUOYE) was established as part of the Nigerian government’s expansion of federal universities. It offers a broad range of academic programs spanning faculties such as Engineering, Arts, Sciences, Social Sciences, Law, and Health Sciences. FUOYE is recognized for courses like Architecture, Biochemistry, Pharmacy, and Mechatronics Engineering. The university provides modern facilities including lecture halls, ICT centers, research laboratories, a health center, and student hostels designed to support academic and residential life.

FUOYE students come from across the Nigeria and throughout the world, representing diverse perspectives, experiences, backgrounds and cultures.

2. Federal University of Technology and Environmental Studies, Iyin-Ekiti

The Federal University of Technology and Environmental Studies, Iyin-Ekiti, is also a federal institution situated in Iyin-Ekiti. While less detailed public information is widely available compared to FUOYE, it focuses on technology and environmental studies, contributing specialized education in these critical fields, supporting Nigeria’s emphasis on environmental sustainability and technological advancement.

Both institutions reflect the federal government’s commitment to expanding access to quality higher education in Ekiti State and aligning academic programs with market needs and national development goals.

State Universities in Ekiti State

Ekiti State has two state universities. The first is Ekiti State University (EKSU), founded in 1982, which is well-known for its commitment to research, teaching, and community service. EKSU offers a wide range of faculties including Agricultural Sciences, Arts, Basic Medical Sciences, Education, Engineering, Law, Management Sciences, Science, Social Sciences, and Pharmacy.

The second state university is Bamidele Olumilua University of Education, Science and Technology (BOUESTI), which was upgraded from a College of Education in 2020. It focuses on Education, Science, Technology, Management and Social Sciences, and Agricultural Sciences.

These two universities serve as key public institutions for higher education in Ekiti, with distinctive roles in teacher education, sciences, technology, and community development.

1. Ekiti State University

Ekiti State University, Ado Ekiti is a non-profit public higher-education institution located in the suburban setting of the medium city of Ado-Ekiti. Ekiti State University, Ado Ekiti is officially recognized by the National Universities Commission of Nigeria.

Ekiti State University, Ado-Ekiti is one of the most selective universities in the world, accepting 1 out of 5 students who submitted the aplication. The academic year is traditionally consists of two semesters. Ekiti State University, Ado-Ekiti is classified as a large university with more than 39,000 concurrent students. The admission committee accepts the applications from foreign citizens.

2. Bamidele Olumilua University of Education, Science and Technology (BOUESTI)

Bamidele Olumilua University of Education, Science and Technology (BOUESTI) is a state-owned university located in Ikere-Ekiti, Ekiti State, Nigeria. It was established in October 2020 after being upgraded from the former College of Education, Ikere-Ekiti. The university is organized on a collegiate system with three main colleges: the College of Education, College of Science, and College of Technology, each headed by a provost.

BOUESTI aims to produce exemplary teachers, scientists, and technologists who are well-equipped to contribute meaningfully to society. Its mission focuses on advancing knowledge in education, science, and technology to provide practical solutions for contemporary challenges. The university offers a variety of academic programs, including education disciplines such as English, Business Education, and Social Studies, science programs like Microbiology and Plant Science, and technological fields including Electrical and Electronics Engineering, Tourism and Hospitality Management, and Food Science Technology.

This institution emphasizes learning for self-reliance and innovation, striving to be recognized internationally for its commitment to cultural values and quality education.

Private Universities in Ekiti State

There are three private universities in Ekiti State, each with distinct qualities:

1. Afe Babalola University

Afe Babalola University is a private higher-education institution located in the urban setting of the medium city of Ado-Ekiti. The university is officially recognized by the National Universities Commission of Nigeria. Afe Babalola University was founded to reform functional education in the clime by providing and leading others in quality education, service, industry and character as well as discipline operates the collegiate system and has Five of such colleges.

It is the only university founded by an acclaimed educationist, the twice winner of the best Pro-Chancellor of all universities in Nigeria; A former Pro-Chancellor of the University of Lagos; Chairman of Committee of Pro-Chancellors of Nigeria Universities and member of the Club of Rectors of Europe.

Afe Babalola. It is renowned for academic excellence, innovation, and world-class facilities. ABUAD houses multiple colleges including Law, Engineering, Sciences, Medicine and Health Sciences, Social and Management Sciences, and Agriculture. It is well-regarded for its modern infrastructure and strict adherence to accreditation standards, especially in Medicine, which is less commonly offered at private universities in Nigeria.

2. Hillside University of Science and Technology, in Okemesi, Ekiti State

Hillside University of Science and Technology, in Okemesi, Ekiti State, is a newer institution focused on advancing science, technology, and research. It offers various colleges including Business, Law and Educational Sciences; Agriculture, Life and Environmental Sciences; Engineering Sciences and Technology; and Health and Applied Medical Sciences. It aims to contribute to technological innovation and practical scientific education.

3. Venite University, Iloro-Ekiti

Venite University, Iloro-Ekiti, is among the newest private universities approved by the National Universities Commission. It features colleges in Science and Information Technology, Social and Management Sciences, and Allied Health Science. Venite University is dedicated to providing quality higher education with a focus on intellectual growth, creativity, and innovation.

Together, these private universities complement the academic landscape of Ekiti State by offering diverse programs and modern facilities tailored to meet contemporary educational needs.

List of Polytechnics in Ekiti State

Ekiti State has four recognized polytechnics comprising federal, state, and private institutions. One of which was inherited from the former Ondo State:

1. Federal Polytechnic, Ado Ekiti (Federal Government)

The Federal Polytechnic Ado-Ekiti is an educational institution for confernment OND/HND honours on the deserving students for various discipline. The Federal Polytechnic, Ado-Ekiti, established in 1977, is the oldest polytechnic in the state and offers extensive National Diploma (ND) and Higher National Diploma (HND) programs in engineering, technology, management, environmental studies, and applied sciences. It focuses on producing skilled manpower to meet national development needs and supports research and innovation.​

2. Ajayi Polytechnic, Ikere-Ekiti (Private)

The main essence of polytechnic education is to promote technical and vocational training and enhance the transfer of technology for the economic development of the country. Ajayi polytechnic’s Philosophy, Vision, Mission and objectives are tandem with the national philosophy and objectives of technical education in Nigeria.

However. Ajayi Polytechnic (Govt. Approved) was founded to provide necessary training and appropriate skills that will make an individual to be self-reliant or be gainfully employed.

Ajayi Polytechnic, a private institution founded in 2017 and located in Ikere-Ekiti, offers practical and career-oriented programs including business administration, engineering, and computer science. The polytechnic is committed to providing vocational and technical education aligned with industrial trends.​

3. Crown Polytechnic, Ado-Ekiti

The mission of the polytechnic is conceptualized in a mission statement as follows: Crown Polytechnic will be a first-class manpower provider for the Nigeria Economy in the field of technology and management through the provision of a purposeful and qualitative Polytechnic education and training for the teeming Nigerian Youths; possessing the penchant for excellent and consistently adding value to training through innovation, research and scholarship.

Crown Polytechnic, based in Ado-Ekiti and established in 2008, is another private polytechnic offering courses in engineering, sciences, business management, and computer studies. It strives to deliver quality technical education with emphasis on entrepreneurial skills and professional development.​

4. Ekiti State Polytechnic, Isan-Ekiti

Ekiti State Polytechnic, Isan-Ekiti, established originally as Ekiti State College of Agriculture and Technology and converted to a polytechnic in 2021, mainly emphasizes agricultural sciences, technology, and business-related courses. It aims at developing skilled professionals tailored to the agricultural sector and technological innovations in the state.​

These polytechnics collectively contribute significantly to skills development and technical education in Ekiti State, preparing graduates for diverse sectors of the economy.

List of College of Education in Ekiti State

Ekiti State has three main Colleges of Education, each playing a crucial role in teacher education and training:

• College of Education Ikere

College of Education Ikere-Ekiti is an institution of higher learning that offers range of corses in science and arts as well as e-learning courses in award of NCE honours. The College was also to be unique in the sense that it would principally train Technical and Vocational Education teachers without neglecting academic areas of study.

To give respectability and acceptability to its programme, the College was affiliated to the then University of Ife (now Obafemi Awolowo University) which eventually approved her courses and sponsored same for the approval of the National Joint Consultative Committee on education (JCCE) in February 1979. Thus, all programmes of the College were moderated by the University.

The College of Education, Ikere-Ekiti, now part of Bamidele Olumilua University of Education, Science and Technology (BOUESTI), this institution focuses on producing qualified teachers and educational professionals. It offers various programs in arts, sciences, education, and vocational studies with a mission to advance quality teacher education.

• Fabotas College of Health Sciences and Technology

Fabotas College of Health Sciences and Technology Ado-Ekiti is one of the newly emerging Colleges of Health Sciences and Technology in Nigeria. The college which was founded on February 28 2011 was incorporated under the perpetual Act on June 26 2012. The sole aim of the establishment of the college is to train middle-level health personnels, who will assist tremendously in discharging health duties in all the nooks and crannies of Nigeria.

College of Education, Ikere (as part of BOUESTI): Located within the university campus, this college specializes in training teachers in both science and arts education, aiming to improve educational standards in Ekiti State and beyond.

The list also includes state-affiliated and private colleges that collaborate with universities for academic programs, but the main recognized Colleges of Education specifically for teacher training in Ekiti are linked to BOUESTI and its legacy institution.

What Academic Programs are Strongest in Ekiti Institutions

Academic programs in Ekiti State institutions are particularly strong in several faculties including Engineering, Medicine, Management Sciences, and Education. Ekiti State University (EKSU), for example, has full accreditation across programs such as Civil, Electrical and Computer Engineering, Law, and various Education specializations, reflecting a robust engineering and professional studies focus. The university is also noted for its accredited Master’s programs in Business Administration, Personnel Management, Public Administration, and Finance, showing strength in business-related disciplines.

In the sciences, EKSU offers well-regarded courses in Geology, Psychology, and various branches of Agricultural Science like Animal Production and Crop Studies. The Faculty of Education is particularly diverse, offering programs ranging from Science Education and Vocational/Technical Education to Arts and Social Sciences Education. The strong emphasis on Education programs aligns with Ekiti State’s reputation for producing quality teachers. The Faculty of Medicine provides comprehensive training in Medicine and Surgery, Nursing, Anatomy, and Physiology, highlighting a focus on health sciences.

Overall, the strongest academic programs in Ekiti State institutions cover Engineering, Business/Management Sciences, Medicine, Education, and Agricultural Sciences, supported by full accreditations and recognition as centers of academic excellence.

How Admission Requirements Vary Across Ekiti State Universities

Admission requirements vary across Ekiti State universities mainly in terms of cutoff marks, examination types, and specific program prerequisites, but generally all require a recognized secondary school certificate with credit passes in relevant subjects including English Language.

At Ekiti State University (EKSU), candidates must have passed the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) with a minimum score of 150 and participate in a Post-UTME screening exercise. EKSU also admits direct entry candidates with advanced level passes or equivalent qualifications, and some programs set higher UTME cutoffs, such as Medicine and Surgery requiring 260 and Law 250. EKSU’s process has recently shifted to a screening-based Post-UTME without a written test, and it accepts candidates who did not initially select EKSU as their first choice if they meet the UTME cutoff and change institution via JAMB CAPS.

The Federal University Oye-Ekiti (FUOYE) requires candidates to have a minimum of five credit passes including English and Mathematics, a UTME score of at least 150, and successful participation in their Post-UTME online screening test. FUOYE conform to departmental-specific cutoff marks with registration and payment involved for the screening process.

Afe Babalola University, a private institution, typically requires O’level credits, satisfactory performance in JAMB UTME, and participation in their own screening and assessment procedures tailored to their academic standards.

Across these universities, there is an emphasis on UTME scores, Post-UTME screening, and relevant subject credits from secondary education, though the exact cutoff marks and assessment formats differ to match institutional standards and program competitiveness.