There are currently five universities in Akwa Ibom state. Of these, one is owned by the federal government, one is owned by the state government, and the other three are privately owned.
Since the establishment of the University of Uyo in 1991 in Akwa Ibom state, more universities and even colleges has been established.
Below is an outline of the universities in Akwa Ibom:
Federal University:
- The University of Uyo
- Federal University of Technology Ikot Abasi
State University:
- Akwa Ibom State University
Private Universities:
- Obong University
- Ritman University
- Topfaith University
Let’s take a more in-depth look into each of these universities.
The University of Uyo
The University of Uyo was the first university in Akwa Ibom. It was formerly known as the University of Cross River State, however, on October 1 1991, the federal government established it as a federal university and its name was changed to the University of Uyo.
The University which is located in Uyo, the capital city of Akwa Ibom, operates a multi-campus system. It has five campuses located at strategic sites in the state. They include:
- The Main Campus
- The Town Campus
- The Annex Campus
- The College of Health Sciences Campus
- The Ime Umanah Campus which serves as the school of basic studies
Although a third generation University, the University of Uyo currently has about 13 faculties and offers officially recognized degrees such as bachelor’s, master’s and postgraduate degrees. In terms of academic prowess, she competes favourably with first-generation universities.
The University of Uyo is currently recognized as the 21st best institution in the country.
Federal University of Technology Ikot Abasi (FUTIA)
The Federal Government of Nigeria established the Federal University of Technology, Ikot Abasi (FUTIA) in June 2021. It is a technology-focused institution created to cater to the needs of students who are interested in a career in technology. It offers diverse undergraduate courses in Computing, Engineering, and Pure & Applied sciences.
Akwa Ibom State University
The university was conceived by the government of Akwa Ibom and its being funded by same government. The idea of the university was first conceived in 2000, but the university officially opened its door to let its first pioneer students in the 2010/2011 academic session.
The University of Akwa Ibom boasts of about 8 faculties. It operates on a multi-campus system and has two campuses: the main campus at Ikot Akpaden, Mkpat Enin L.G.A and a second campus fondly known as Abak Campus situated at Obio Akpa, Oruk Anam L.G.A.
Obong University
Located in Etim Ekpo LGA, Obong University is associated with the churches of Christ. It was founded in 1997 as the African College of Management, but as more programs were added to its curriculum, the name was revised to Obong University.
The university boasts of a Faculty of Natural and Applied Sciences with degrees available in a wide range of courses including Microbiology, Biochemistry, Computer Science and many others. It also houses a Faculty of Management and Social Sciences with degrees in Mass Communication, Sociology and many others.
Ritman University
Sen. Emmanuel Ibok Essien founded Ritman University. The university, which is located in Ikot Ekpene, officially began its academic activities in 2015. It has an estimated population of 1,000 students spread across its three faculties.
Top Faith University
Top Faith University opened its doors to its pioneer students in November 2021. The university is currently operating with approximately four faculties, namely Computing and Applied Sciences, Engineering, Law and Management, and Social Sciences. The establishment of the university was an addition to the Top Faith schools, which consist of a Montessori, a secondary arm, and now a University. The university hopes to expand to accommodate more disciplines by 2023 and even include a postgraduate school by 2028.
