RismadarVoice Reporters, May 11, 2026
The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board has revealed that Lagos State University emerged as the most preferred institution among candidates who registered for the 2026 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME).
The statistics were presented on Monday during the ongoing policy meeting on admissions organised by JAMB in Abuja, where admission trends and application data for tertiary institutions were reviewed.
According to the figures released at the meeting, LASU recorded 84,426 first-choice applications, representing the highest number of applications submitted by candidates nationwide.
University of Lagos followed closely with 78,240 applications, while Obafemi Awolowo University occupied the third position with 60,370 applications.
University of Ibadan came fourth after attracting 58,895 applicants, ahead of University of Benin, which recorded 55,425 applications.
Also listed among the most preferred institutions was Nnamdi Azikiwe University with 54,085 applications, while University of Ilorin secured the seventh spot with 52,514 applicants.
University of Nigeria, Nsukka recorded 51,660 applications to place eighth, while Federal University Oye-Ekiti and University of Port Harcourt completed the top 10 with 48,272 and 48,199 applications respectively.
Top 10 Most Preferred Universities for 2026 UTME
1. Lagos State University — 84,426
2. University of Lagos — 78,240
3. Obafemi Awolowo University — 60,370
4. University of Ibadan — 58,895
5. University of Benin — 55,425
6. Nnamdi Azikiwe University — 54,085
7. University of Ilorin — 52,514
8. University of Nigeria, Nsukka – 51,660
9. Federal University Oye-Ekiti — 48,272
10. University of Port Harcourt — 48,199
The latest statistics also highlighted changing preferences among UTME candidates over the years.
LASU, which currently occupies the top position, was absent from the top 10 ranking in some previous admission cycles, indicating a significant rise in its appeal among prospective students.
Meanwhile, institutions such as UNILAG, UNILORIN, OAU, UI and FUOYE maintained strong performances and continued to attract large numbers of applicants across multiple admission years.
JAMB noted that the changes in rankings reflect evolving admission patterns and shifting choices among candidates seeking placement into Nigerian universities.
