By Ghazali Ibrahim
Lagos State University (LASU) has overtaken some of Nigeria’s most prominent institutions to become the most sought-after university by applicants in the 2025 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME).
According to application statistics released by the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB), LASU recorded the highest number of first-choice applicants, edging out traditional favorites like the University of Lagos (UNILAG) and the University of Ilorin (UNILORIN).
The report also showed a strong showing for the Federal University, Oye-Ekiti (FUOYE), which continues to rise in national visibility.
Other highly ranked institutions based on applicant preference include Nnamdi Azikiwe University (UNIZIK), the University of Ibadan (UI), the University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN), and the University of Benin (UNIBEN), indicating a sustained interest in long-established public universities.
The growing appeal of LASU is seen by analysts as a reflection of improved infrastructure, enhanced academic prowess and a perception of greater stability, particularly in a time when many public universities continue to grapple with strike-related disruptions.
JAMB is expected to release more detailed breakdowns of institutional demand in the coming weeks, which will help universities prepare for the 2025/2026 admission cycle.
Meanwhile, education stakeholders are calling on university administrators to match rising demand with expanded capacity, improved learning environments, and transparent admission processes.
