Lagos State University (LASU) has emerged as the most preferred institution in the 2026 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) admissions cycle, recording 84,426 first-choice applications from candidates across the country.
The figures were presented on Monday during the 2026 Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) Policy Meeting on Admissions held at the Body of Benchers Auditorium, Jabi, Abuja.
The annual meeting brings together vice-chancellors, rectors, provosts, and major stakeholders in Nigeria’s tertiary education sector to determine admission guidelines and minimum cut-off marks for the new academic session.
The University of Lagos (UNILAG) followed closely with 78,240 applications, while Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), Ile-Ife, recorded 60,370 applications.
The University of Ibadan (UI) came fourth with 58,895 applicants, while the University of Benin (UNIBEN) secured fifth position with 55,425 first-choice candidates.
Other institutions that attracted high application numbers include Nnamdi Azikiwe University (54,085), University of Ilorin (52,514), University of Nigeria, Nsukka (51,660), Federal University Oye-Ekiti (48,272), and the University of Port Harcourt (48,199).
Education stakeholders at the meeting noted that the latest figures reflect changing admission preferences among candidates, with LASU consolidating its growing national appeal despite historically being regarded primarily as a state-owned institution.
Analysts attribute LASU’s rise to factors such as its relatively stable academic calendar, competitive tuition structure compared to many federal universities, improved infrastructure, strategic location in Lagos, and growing reputation for academic excellence.
The development also reinforces the increasing attractiveness of institutions located in major urban and economic centres, particularly Lagos, which continues to draw students seeking stronger academic and career opportunities.
The policy meeting further reviewed admission procedures for the 2026/2027 academic session, including minimum admissible UTME scores, institutional compliance with the Central Admissions Processing System (CAPS), and measures aimed at improving transparency in the admission process.
JAMB officials reiterated that no institution is permitted to commence admissions until the conclusion of the policy meeting and the formal release of approved admission guidelines.
The 2026 exercise comes amid heightened competition for university placements following the registration of over two million candidates for the UTME nationwide.
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