The Federal Ministry of Education has extended warm congratulations to the Founder and Chancellor of Afe Babalola University, Ado-Ekiti (ABUAD), Aare Afe Babalola, OFR, CON, SAN, and the entire academic and non-academic staff for the institution’s recent global recognition.
In the 2025 Times Higher Education Impact Rankings, ABUAD reached a historic milestone by ranking 84th globally, 3rd in Africa, and retaining its position as the number one university in Nigeria for the fourth consecutive year, from 2022 to 2025.
In a congratulatory letter addressed to Aare Afe Babalola, the Honourable Minister of Education, Dr. Maruf Olatunji Alausa, CON, commended the distinguished legal icon and philanthropist for his steadfast commitment to educational excellence and national development. “Your achievement is not just a personal triumph but a national milestone. It is truly inspiring to see your decade-long vision, once shared with former Chief Justice Hon. Justice Tanko Mohammed, come to life globally within your lifetime,” the Minister wrote.
The Minister also praised the combined efforts of ABUAD’s academic and non-academic staff, noting that this recognition would not have been possible without their dedication and pursuit of excellence. “You have proven that with vision, passion, and professionalism, Nigerian institutions can shine on the world stage,” Dr. Alausa added.
The Ministry stressed that this outstanding ranking is not only worth celebrating but should serve as a renewed call to greater service for both ABUAD and the wider Nigerian education sector. “This accomplishment should inspire and propel us all towards a deeper commitment to delivering quality, functional, and globally competitive education,” the Minister said.
Reaffirming its commitment to supporting innovative institutions like ABUAD, the Ministry pledged continued collaboration to advance educational innovation, research, and sustainable development across the country.
Dr. Alausa concluded by extending the Ministry’s best wishes to Aare Afe Babalola and the entire ABUAD community, encouraging them to sustain this remarkable standard and continue to lead in higher education.
ELIJAH ADEYEMI
