The Maryam Abacha American University of Niger (MAAUN Niger) has recorded a major milestone in African higher education after emerging as the highest-ranked university in the Republic of Niger in the 2026 Times Higher Education (THE) Impact Rankings.
According to the latest rankings, MAAUN Niger is ranked first in Niger Republic, 14th among Africa’s private universities, and placed within the 801–1000 global band, reflecting its growing international reputation for academic excellence, impactful research, and commitment to sustainable development.
The achievement places Niger Republic prominently on the global higher education landscape, with MAAUN Niger becoming one of the country’s leading ambassadors in one of the world’s most prestigious university ranking systems.
The recognition also reinforces MAAUN Niger’s reputation as one of West Africa’s foremost bilingual universities, renowned for innovation, quality education, human capital development, and research-driven solutions to societal challenges.
Over the years, the institution has made significant contributions to higher education and professional manpower development, particularly in the health sciences. Through its Colleges of Medical Laboratory Science, Nursing Sciences, Public Health, Pharmacy, and other allied health programmes, the university has produced thousands of highly trained professionals who are making meaningful contributions to healthcare delivery in Niger Republic and across the globe.
Its graduates currently serve in hospitals, research institutes, diagnostic laboratories, public health agencies, and healthcare organisations, helping to strengthen health systems and improve access to quality healthcare services.
Beyond academic excellence, MAAUN Niger has continued to distinguish itself through cutting-edge research, community engagement, innovation, and knowledge dissemination, while developing practical solutions to pressing social, economic, and developmental challenges.
The Times Higher Education Impact Rankings evaluate universities based on their contributions to the achievement of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), assessing institutions not only on academic performance but also on their measurable impact on society.
Reacting to the achievement, Professor Ibrahim Lawal described the ranking as a recognition of the university’s broader societal contributions beyond classroom teaching.
“The rankings are particularly significant because they measure not only academic excellence but also the tangible impact universities make on society. The recognition of Maryam Abacha American University of Niger reflects its growing influence as an institution that not only produces graduates but also generates solutions to local and global development challenges.”
He added that the university’s inclusion in the 2026 rankings reflects years of strategic investment in quality education, healthcare training, research, innovation, and sustainable development.
“The inclusion of MAAUN Niger in the 2026 rankings is a testament to the university’s strategic investments in quality education, healthcare training, research, and sustainable development, while reinforcing its position as an emerging centre of excellence in higher education in Africa,” he said.
The latest ranking is expected to further enhance MAAUN Niger’s international profile, strengthen its global partnerships, and consolidate its position as a leading institution in health sciences education, research, innovation, and sustainable development across Africa.
