* Established amid growing anti-Muslim hatred and discrimination
The history of Western education in Nigeria is replete with a culture of forced Christianisation, which has resulted in relentless victimisation and suppression of people of other faiths, particularly the Muslims. In the past, this wave of Christianisation was so intense that Muslims who wanted to acquire Western education had to change their Islamic names and conceal their Islamic identities.
Shockingly, despite the turn of modernisation, this ugly trend still persists, but has taken a new dimension. At present, cases where Muslim females are denied the right to don their Hijabs; and both males and females are denied the freedom to practise their religious rites as firmly enshrined in the Constitution but are coerced to chant gospel songs and attend chapels in schools controlled by the Christians are well-documented in the media.
Unlike in the past where there was a dearth of schools owned by Muslims, some committed individuals and Muslim organisations are now establishing schools, primary to tertiary, that not only offer standard western education but also qualitative Islamic education, which is usually non-existent in Christian schools.
An advisory by Muslim stakeholders has therefore gone to the Muslim community in Nigeria to patronise private universities that are Islamic faith-based.
Retired professor and executive director of Muslim Rights Concern (MURIC), Prof Ishaq Lakin Akintola, said for Muslims to protect their children from dangerous Christian indoctrination, they should pick Muslim universities within the country.
He said Muslims should empower Muslim universities by patronising them.
“How will our own universities grow when we ignore them? Whether Christian universities are better equipped or not, I think we should avoid them totally,” Akintola said.
“To protect our children from dangerous Christian indoctrination, our universities of first choice should be federal institutions. Those who prefer private universities should pick Muslim universities within the country or send their children and wards abroad.”
On his part, a senior lecturer at Al-Hikmah University, Ilorin and prominent Islamic scholar, Dr. Sanusi Lafiagi, said it’s illogical for Muslims to demand a platform for Islamic worship in Christian faith-based universities.
“Would we allow non-Muslims to use a classroom for their worship let alone erect a structure be it temporary or permanent for that purpose? ABSOLUTELY NO. It’s not going to happen,” he said.
Lafiagi advised Muslim parents to take their children and wards to federal or state universities, where no one can oppress them on the basis of their religion.
Beyond #Ramadan and #Eid, our latest edition also featured a compelling mix of exclusive stories, including an in-depth report on the top five Muslim private universities in Nigeria shaping the future of education.@fuoweb @alhikmahuni_NG @AlqalamUniKtn @CUAB_OGUN @SummitUniOffa pic.twitter.com/fn63xPZ4Pi
— Muslim News Nigeria (@muslimnews_NG) April 10, 2025
“If you can afford a private school, send them to Islamic faith-based Universities,” he added.
While there are thousands of standard Muslim private primary and secondary schools across Nigeria, there only a few Muslim universities. In this special edition, we unveil the five Muslim-owned universities in Nigeria and why it has become germane for Muslim parents and their children to patronise them. We shall talk more about the remaining institutions belonging to the Muslims in Nigeria in our subsequent editions, bi idhnillah.
Crescent University: A legacy of academic and moral excellence
Crescent University, Abeokuta is the brainchild of a prominent legal luminary and former judge of the International Court of Justice, The Hague, His Excellency, Justice Bola Ajibola. It was envisioned as a citadel of academic and moral excellence. It is a foremost Islamic university in Nigeria, founded in 2005 under the banner of the Islamic Mission for Africa (IMA).
It was licensed by the National Universities Commission (NUC) on June 9 of the same year. Its operating license was presented by the then Minister of Education, Mrs Nora Obaji. The university was established in consonance with her doctrine and vision: learning and character.
Justice Bola Ajibola founded the university on his retirement from the International Court of Justice (ICJ) at the age of 70, after selling his assets in Nigeria and abroad to achieve the noble cause of assisting the Nigerian youth in closing the widening gap between attainable potentials, student population and limited space in public universities. Of his visions, the accomplishment of Crescent University is the ultimate.
In an exclusive interview with Muslim News, Professor Ibraheem Gbajabiamila, Vice-Chancellor of Crescent University, Abeokuta, shared insights into the university’s journey, achievements, and future aspirations.
A legacy built on commitment to education, Crescent University stands as a beacon of academic and moral excellence. Established 20 years ago by His Excellency, Prince Bola Ajibola, the institution was conceived as a response to the global perception that Nigeria did not prioritize education. Originally intended to be a housing estate, Ajibola redirected his vision after encountering international skepticism about Nigeria’s education sector.
“Whenever I introduced myself as a judge from Nigeria, I would hear comments about the country not caring about education, with 20% of children out of school. This deeply disturbed me,” he once shared. Determined to change this narrative, he applied for a license to establish one of Nigeria’s leading private universities.
Ajibola’s motivation stemmed from concerns about discrimination against Muslim students in university admissions. “A Muslim student was once given admission but had his offer withdrawn after authorities discovered his religious identity. This was a fight His Excellency took personally,” recounted Prof. Gbajabiamila.
His involvement with Crescent University began when he met Ajibola in the UK, where the latter was serving as a chancellor. Invited to assist in building the institution, he arrived in 2010 as Deputy Vice-Chancellor and later became Vice-Chancellor. “His Excellency sold his properties to fund the university. It was philanthropists like Alhaji Aliko Dangote, who built two hostels, and others like Folawiyo and Femi Okunnu, that helped build the structures we have today,” he noted.
The vice-chancellor’s dedication to Crescent University is also a continuation of his family’s historical involvement in education. His great-grandfather was instrumental in establishing Ansar-Ud-Deen School in 1923, advocating for equal education for Muslims when colonial authorities insisted on religious conformity in Christian schools.
Under Prof. Gbajabiamila’s leadership, Crescent University has grown significantly. “Between 2010 and 2014, we had three colleges. Since then, we’ve established the College of Law, College of Nursing, and the Abeokuta Business School. His Excellency urged me to continue implementing our strategic plan, which has yielded remarkable results.”
The university’s College of Law remains highly sought after, with its graduates excelling at the Nigerian Law School. Likewise, the nursing program boasts an impressive record, with students passing professional exams before graduation.
Newly introduced courses include LLB, BMLS, MBBS, and various postgraduate programmes. “We’ve launched PhD programmes in Computer Science, Mass Communication, Accounting, Microbiology, and Biochemistry. We’re also focusing on health-related programmes, such as Medical Laboratory Science (MLS), with state-of-the-art laboratories under construction, funded by Alhaji AbdulSamad Rabiu,” Prof. Gbajabiamila stated.
Crescent University’s emphasis on employment-driven courses is another key strength. “We’ve introduced degrees in Cybersecurity and Software Engineering, addressing workforce shortages in Nigeria’s banking and IT sectors. As a private institution, parents invest in their children’s education, ensuring they have career opportunities post-graduation.”
The university prides itself on producing highly employable graduates. “Our Mass Communication program is particularly renowned, with alumni holding prestigious positions. For example, the head of Customs Public Relations is one of our graduates. Many of our Northern students work in radio and television stations,” he highlighted.
Moreover, many graduates pursue further studies abroad. “A significant number of our students secure postgraduate placements overseas, either self-funded or through scholarships. For instance, Fateemah Abubakar, a first-class Economics graduate, was funded by the Kano State government for her master’s in India, returning home with distinction to work in government.”
Crescent University prides itself on its inclusive and disciplined academic environment. “Our unique selling points as a Muslim private institution are academic and moral excellence. We don’t just produce first-class graduates; we instill discipline and strong ethical values. Our students reside on campus, adhere to moral standards, and prioritize spirituality. Interestingly, 30% of our students are non-Muslims, with parents appreciating our structured approach,” the Vice-Chancellor noted.
The institution was also established to combat discriminatory practices in some universities. “His Excellency was dissatisfied with the forced participation of Muslim students in Christian religious activities, which is common in some private universities. One such institution, founded near us, explicitly focuses on evangelism.”
With a track record of 100% accreditation for all programs by the National Universities Commission (NUC), Crescent University continues to thrive. “Whenever NUC conducts accreditation exercises, we pass with flying colors. Our commitment to excellence ensures our graduates are highly sought after in the job market.”
Looking ahead, the university remains committed to expanding its academic offerings, enhancing research facilities, and strengthening industry partnerships to produce graduates ready for global opportunities.
Al-Hikmah University: The Domicile of Islamic Scholarship
Al-Hikmah University, Ilorin, Kwara State was established in 2005 by the Abdur-Raheem Oladimeji Islamic Foundation (AROIF), Nigeria. The University came into existence via the granting of License No. 010 to operate as a Conventional Private University by the Federal Government of Nigeria on 7th January, 2005. It commenced academic activities during the 2005/2006 academic session with 70 students spread across the three take-off Colleges, Humanities, Management Sciences and Natural Sciences.
Today, Al-Hikmah University has seven faculties (Humanities and Social Sciences, Management Sciences, Natural and Applied Sciences, Education, Law and Health Sciences and the last, Faculty of Agriculture) and the Postgraduate School. It has 50 Undergraduate, 12 Diploma and 43 Postgraduate Programmes.
The University now has 11 Centres which include Centre for Research, Industrial Linkage and International Cooperation (CRIIC), Centre for Part-Time and Professional Studies, Centre for Peace and Security Studies, Counseling and Human Development Centre, Abdulraheem Oladimeji Center For Entrepreneurial And Vocational Studies (AOCEVS), Center For Islamic Heritage, Center for Community Development, Centre for Islamic Economics and Finance, University Advancement Centre, Al-Hikmah University Jupeb Foundation School and CODeL LMS.
At the moment, her student population is above 11,000, inclusive of Postgraduate students and the Institute of Education. All her academic programmes are accredited by the National Universities Commission.
Al-Hikmah University is famed for being the first-ever Islamic faith-based private university in Nigeria. It has maintained its status as a hub for nurturing generations on Islamic values and principles.
What started with a single campus has grown to have two other sister campuses in Kwara State, one at Igbaja, the founder’s hometown, and the other at Atere.
Speaking on the journey of the institution so far, Vice Chancellor Prof. Noah Yusuf told Muslim News that Al-Hikmah University is a household name in Nigeria, with a large percentage of families in Northern Nigeria having their children as students or graduates of the institution.
The Vice Chancellor noted that Al-Hikmah University serves as a great model for private institutions seeking to offer quality education and Islamic values and morals to the young generation.
“With the waywardness now in vogue in our society, Al-Hikmah University has raised the hope of parents to get good Islamic education and morality for their wards,” he said.
“As an Islamic university, our policy is to ensure that aside quality education, we also imbue morals in our students, and more importantly, spirituality. These are the selling points of our university. Parents send their wards from Maiduguri, Kano, Katsina and all over the country down to Al-Hikmah University here in Ilorin. The students have the opportunity of being taken through Islamic values and culture.”
The Vice Chancellor said the institution has a Solat Enforcement Team that ensures all activities on campus are put on hold when the time for each prayer sets in.
“We have mosques at the heart of all our campuses. When it is time for prayer, all activities have to be directed towards the mosque. All staff and students actually know this,” he stressed.
In the last five years, Al-Hikmah University has built on its structures, widening infrastructure to promote quality education, research, and community development.
According to the Vice Chancellor, the institution now has an international secondary school, which serves as a feeder to the university.
“When I came on board (on Monday, 13th July, 2020), there was no secondary school. The first question I asked was that why should Al-Hikmah University, as old as it is, not have a secondary school. At that time, it was about 15 years old. So, I thought we should just start it. Alhamdulilah, we got a structure near the founder’s house which we converted to commence our international school.
“Today, that school is fully on ground with approval for external examinations such as WAEC, NECO, and others. About two sets have now graduated. When we started, we admitted students into JS 1, JS 2, SS 1, and SS 2. We could not admit to JS 3 and SS 3. Now, we have two sets. The students are doing well. Many of them came out in flying colours,” the VC said.
Speaking further, Prof. Yusuf said Al-Hikmah University now boasts a standard Computer Based Test (CBT), which is one in town and has attracted partnerships with key government agencies including the Civil Defence, Customs, Nursing and Midwifery Council of Nigeria (NMCN), among others.
“We also discovered that the university, while it has that advantage of a good location being in the heart of Ilorin, had no CBT Centre. There was a structure which we found on the Adeta Campus which we found out could be used for the project. So, without any further delay, we facilitated the establishment of the CBT Centre,” he said.
“Today, that CBT Centre, we can say, is one of the best in Kwara State. The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) authorities have inspected and certified it. Many institutions including the Nursing Council of Nigeria, Civil Defence, Customs, and others make use of the Centre.
“We also constructed a gymnasium because sports is very important. Today, it is in use by most of our students.”
Al-Hikmah University has also added to its existing structures three pet houses established on its Igbaja Campus that houses the institution’s Faculty of Agriculture. In these pet houses, poultry and other animals are bred, contributing to agricultural development and food security in the nation.
The Vice Chancellor also revealed a crucial milestone attained by the university with the approval of its MBBS programme by the National Universities Commission (NUC).
“For the past two years, we have been on the commencement of our MBBS programme. But precisely in January 2025, we got the approval of the NUC. Today, the first set of MBBS students are on ground. We thank Almighty Allah for that,” he said.
Vice Chancellor Noah Yusuf also explained that Al-Hikmah University offers one of the most affordable fees among private universities in Nigeria. He said the founder, Alhaji (Dr.) AbdulRaheem Oladimeji OFR, is a foremost philanthropist whose topmost priority is human capital development.
He said out of the magnanimity of the founder, the institution has a tuition-free policy for its Agriculture students, in addition to a scholarship scheme he runs through his Abdur-Raheem Oladimeji Islamic Foundation (RAIF).
“Our school fee is among the lowest in Nigeria for private universities. More importantly, we have many programmes that are highly subsidised through the magnanimity of the founder who is a foremost philanthropist. For instance, Islamic Studies, Arabic Language which are the foundation courses of this university are highly subsidised, as well as Agriculture which has its campus in Igbaja, the hometown of the founder.
“When we commenced Agriculture some ten years ago, the programme started as tuition-free. We only attached little amounts for the services enjoyed by the students like library, clinic, and so on. Till today, students of Agriculture pay a very minimal amount of money.
“In general, Al-Hikmah University has the least school fees regime among private universities in Nigeria. While our fees are low, it does not mean we compromise quality or standard. Al-Hikmah University offers quality education. The low school fees is out of the magnanimity of the founder.
“We also have about 4 to 5 scholarship schemes in the university. We have the scholarship schemes sponsored by the Abdur-Raheem Oladimeji Islamic Foundation (AROIF), Stakeholders Forum, Vice President HE Kashim Shettima (for indigent female students), and one by an honoree of the university, Dr. Mrs Mosun Bello-Olusoga.”
The Vice Chancellor highlighted the cooperation and support of the founder, Governing Council, Board of Trustees, management, staff, students and other stakeholders of the institution in pushing Al-Hikmah University to greater heights.
Al-Qalam University, Katsina: Pioneering Faith-Based Excellence in Higher Education
Al-Qalam University came into existence in the year 2005. It was registered and licenced first as Katsina University, Katsina by the Nigeria Universities Commission (NUC). Al-Qalam University was also categorised as a private University as there is no category of community university in the Nigerian Universities classification.
Unlike conventional private universities, Al-Qalam operates as a non-profit institution under the Katsina Islamic Foundation (KIF), ensuring that it remains a community-driven center for learning rather than a commercial enterprise.
The university started with only four Colleges namely Humanities, Natural and Applied Sciences, Education and Social and Management Sciences. The institution also has Colleges of Post Graduate Studies and School of Basic and Remedial Studies.
The university offers 31 undergraduate programmes, 11 master’s degrees, and nine PhD programmes, all accredited by the National Universities Commission (NUC). However, what sets Al-Qalam apart is its integrated curriculum, which harmonizes Western education with Islamic teachings.
The Integrated Curriculum which comprised both Western and Islamic contents practiced in the university has made it unique from other conventional universities. The manner and means of operating the university is in line with the principles of Shariah as restrictions in the interaction between the genders is highly enforced. The sitting arrangements, the dress code are all in accordance with the Islamic guidelines. The study of the holy Qur’an and Islamic morals were made compulsory upon all students.
Muslim News gathered that the manner of operating the university aligns with Shariah principles. Gender interactions are restricted, dress codes follow Islamic guidelines, and the study of the Qur’an and Islamic morals is compulsory.
This approach has shaped Al-Qalam University into a model Islamic institution, ensuring that students graduate with not only academic qualifications but also strong moral character.
The University has achieved a great milestone since its establishment and it’s now the Private University with highest tenure staff in Nigeria.
Recently the university has introduced new programs such as: Public Administration, Library and Information Science, Cyber Security, Nursing, Physiotherapy and many others.
Furthermore, Al-Qalam University has collaborated with Jaiz Bank to construct new hostel facilities, ensuring adequate accommodation for its growing student population, particularly female students.
As a leading Islamic University in Nigeria, the University has positioned itself as the institution that inculcates high moral character in its students.
The school has a good reputation both in Nigeria and outside Nigeria, as its students portray a high moral character both within and outside the University.
In a recent interview with Leadership Newspaper, the Vice-Chancellor of the University, Professor Nasiru Musa Yauri, shed light on the institution’s milestones, challenges, and its unique position as a community-driven, faith-based university in Nigeria.
He said, “The university’s development has been steady and strategic. Unlike many private institutions that expand rapidly, Al-Qalam takes a measured approach.
“We introduce programs based on our capacity and align them with regulatory demands. We do not rush into offering courses that we cannot sustain at a high standard,” Professor Yauri noted.
Recently, the university partnered with the Katsina State government to utilize Ahmadi Rimi General Hospital and Turai Hospital for training students in allied health sciences. Additionally, financial support from stakeholders has played a crucial role in infrastructure development.
“Our largest donor, Alhaji Aminu Dantata, gave N1 billion for initial infrastructure development. In 2022, the chairman of BUA Group, Alhaji Abdulsamad Rabiu, announced a N250 million grant to support our College of Allied Health Sciences,” he revealed.
The university has recently intensified its focus on research, particularly in areas of national importance. One of its most notable innovations is a health insurance payment app designed by students. The app allows informal workers to contribute small amounts through their mobile phones, granting them access to healthcare services.
“Our students took this project to a national competition, and I have already discussed it with the office of the vice president,” Professor Yauri disclosed.
Another significant project is the integration of technology into agriculture. “We have been identified by NITDA for smart agriculture research. We are working on applying IT solutions to enhance farming practices,” he added.
Despite its remarkable progress, the university faces challenges, particularly in securing federal grants. Unlike public universities, private institutions do not benefit from TETFund allocations, a situation the VC hopes will change in the future.
“As a member of the Committee of Vice-Chancellors of Private Universities, we are advocating for TETFund support. We contribute to national education and deserve government backing,” he asserted.
Looking ahead, Professor Yauri envisions a university that will be nationally recognized for excellence. “In five years, I want people to hear our name and associate it with quality graduates, research, and innovation.”
The institution commitment to discipline and morality remains unwavering. “We do not force religious practices, but we insist on decency. Our students must carry themselves with dignity, and this has earned us a solid reputation both in Nigeria and abroad.”
Al-Qalam University, Katsina, continues to shape the future of Islamic higher education in Nigeria. With its unwavering commitment to academic excellence, moral values, and research-driven innovation, it stands as a beacon of faith-based erudition in the country.
Fountain University: Producing competitive, resourceful graduates
Fountain University is a faith-based private university, established in May 2007 by one of Nigeria’s leading elite Muslim organisations, Nasrul-lahi-il-Fathi Society (NASFAT), with the mission of producing competitive and resourceful graduates with high moral standards, and the vision to be a pace-setting institution in terms of learning, character building and service to humanity.
The University is located at Oke Osun, Osogbo, Osun State. Ensconced in a serene learning environment, Fountain University currently trains students in the College of Management and Social Sciences (COMAS), College of Natural and Applied Sciences (CONAS) and College of Basic Medical and Health Sciences, among others.
Fountain University runs Postgraduate Diplomas and Masters Degrees in Microbiology, Biochemistry & Nutrition, Management, and Business Administration, among others.
Through its Sub-Degree/Professional Programmes Unit, the University also runs Diplomas in Arabic, Islamic and International Studies, approved by the National Board for Arabic and Islamic Studies (NBAIS), JUPEB and IJMB.
We are committed to academic excellence, Islamic values – PRO
In an exclusive interview with Muslim News, the Public Relations Officer of Fountain University, Osogbo, Taoheed Alimi, reaffirmed the commitment of the institution to academic excellence, research innovation, and Islamic values.
He highlighted the remarkable achievements of the university under the leadership of the Vice-Chancellor, Prof Ramota Karim, particularly in producing outstanding graduates and advancing research collaborations.
Having amassed relevant knowledge and experience in different roles before her appointment as the Vice Chancellor of Fountain University, in January 2023, Prof. Karim has been driving innovation, research, collaboration, and positioning the institution as one of the most sought-after within and outside Nigeria.
Speaking on the university academic milestones, the Fountain University’s PRO stated, “We have demonstrated a strong commitment to academic excellence, as evidenced by the remarkable achievements of our students in professional examinations. For instance, the university’s pioneer nursing graduates achieved a 100% pass rate in the recent Midwifery Professional Exams, surpassing the national average of 95%.”
He further emphasized the institution’s consistent record of graduating high-achieving students, citing the 14th Convocation in January 2025, where 346 students graduated, including 16 First-Class Honours recipients.
Similarly, during the 13th & Convocation in 2024, 253 students graduated, with 9 earning First-Class Honours.
Taoheed also shed light on the university’s strides in research and academic collaborations, noting, “Fountain University achieved a breakthrough in early cervical cancer diagnosis in Nigeria, securing a grant from the Cambridge-Africa Programme in collaboration with the University of Cambridge, UK.”
He highlighted the university’s agreement with Teaching Research in Natural Sciences for Development in Africa, UK, which brought in state-of-the-art molecular biology and genetic diversity research equipment worth over ₦148 million.
He added, “Prof. Abdulazeez Lawal from the Department of Chemical Sciences was recognised among the top 2% of researchers by the AD Scientific Index 2025 and included in Elsevier’s World Researchers 2024 list.”
On the university expansion efforts, he revealed, “The University is looking at establishing the College of Computing, Engineering, Agriculture, and College of Nursing.” He further detailed the institution’s structured academic programs, stating, “The University currently runs five Colleges and a School of Postgraduate Studies. The Colleges are the College of Arts and Education, College of Basic Medical and Health Sciences, College of Law, College of Management and Social Sciences, and the College of Natural and Applied Sciences.”
Fountain University has also gained global recognition, with its law students becoming the first Nigerian and only West African tertiary institution students to participate in the Saudi Arabia Commercial Arbitration competition in Riyadh in March 2025.
Alimi expressed pride in this achievement, saying, “Fountain University Law Students participated in the 2025 Commercial Arbitration competition put together by the Saudi Arabia Commercial Arbitration panel which held in Riyadh in March 2025, making the University the first in Nigeria and the only tertiary institution in West Africa to participate this year.”
In terms of affordability, he assured prospective students and parents, “Fountain University, Osogbo, offers a range of undergraduate programs, each with specific tuition and associated fees. Our fees begin from as low as ₦290,000.”
He stressed the institution’s commitment to accessibility without compromising quality.
The university’s reputation extends beyond academia, with its alumni excelling in various professional fields. Taoheed proudly remarked, “Numerous graduates of the University are working with national and international brands including Google, PwC, the University of Nottingham, TVC, First Bank, just to mention a few. And numerous alumni have bagged fully funded fellowships from Commonwealth to Erasmus Mundus to Chevening.”
As a Muslim private university, Fountain University integrates Islamic principles into its educational framework.
The PRO affirmed, “Fountain University, Osogbo, is a Muslim private university that integrates Islamic values with academic excellence. The institution is dedicated to producing well-rounded graduates who excel in both secular knowledge and Islamic ethics.”
He emphasized the university’s commitment to a morally upright environment, stating, “The university provides dedicated prayer spaces and a mosque for students and staff. Daily Salat (prayer) observance is part of campus life, helping students maintain their religious obligations. Islamic sermons and Friday Jumu’ah prayers are conducted on campus.”
On upholding discipline, he added, “Islamic dress code is enforced, with male and female students required to dress modestly. The university promotes a morally upright environment that discourages negative influences like drug abuse and immoral behavior. Drug tests are randomly conducted to fish out erring students.”
He also reassured that “The university ensures that all meals served on campus are Halal, adhering to Islamic dietary laws. Social events and gatherings are conducted in an Islamically appropriate manner.”
In conclusion, Alimi reiterated the institution vision, stating, “Fountain University provides a serene, drug-free, and secure campus where students can focus on their studies and spiritual growth. The university offers comfortable hostels, each with its mosque, in order to maintain Islamic standards of living.” With its continuous expansion, commitment to research, and Islamic foundation, Fountain University remains a leading institution shaping the future of education in Nigeria.
Summit University: A Product of Islamic Educational Renaissance
Nigeria’s oldest Muslim organisation, Ansar-Ud-Deen Society of Nigeria (ADSN) has no doubt invested heavily in education through the establishment of public and private nursery (33), primary (236) and secondary schools (58) across the country, largely spread in the Southwest and Northern Nigeria.
The 102-year old organisation also has one College of Education and its efforts to establish a full fledged private Muslim University, which began in 2004, materialised on March 5, 2015 when it obtained its provisional licence (the 59th private University) from the National Universities Commission (NUC).
The Proprietor’s decision to locate the University at Offa, Kwara State is partly due to the historic role of Offa as a foremost centre of education and its peace loving community, which established several educational institutions through self-help efforts.
Although, it’s an Islamic faith-based institution, the Proprietor of the school said it will offer qualitative tertiary education to all Nigerians irrespective of religion, ethnicity, sex and creed.
Since his appointment as the Vice Chancellor of Summit University in March 2022, Prof. Abiodun Musa Aibinu has transformed the institution into an epicentre of technological advancement and research.
He keeps harnessing his scholastic prowess, wealth of experience, and exposure to the world of technology for the overall betterment of the university.
The University currently runs seventeen (17) programmes which include: Biology, Chemistry, Mathematics, Computer Science, Physics, Biochemistry and Microbiology in the College of Natural & Applied Sciences; Accounting, Business Administration, Banking & Finance, Economics, Political Science and Mass Communication in the College of Management & Social Sciences; and Arabic, Islamic Studies, English & Literary Studies and History & Diplomatic Studies in the College of Humanities.
The university, which has been committed to providing quality education recently gained approval for 12 new academic programmes, including cutting-edge fields such as artificial intelligence, digital engineering, and computing technology.
The approval of eight undergraduate and four postgraduate programmes marks a major milestone in the university’s quest for academic excellence.
The newly introduced undergraduate courses include Mechatronics Engineering, Communication Engineering, Electrical/Electronic Engineering, and Computer Engineering under the Kola Balogun College of Artificial Intelligence and Digital Engineering. Additionally, Cyber Security, Information Technology, Data Science, and Software Engineering will be offered under the College of Innovation and Computing Technology.
Summit University, Offa, has also expanded its postgraduate programmes, offering Postgraduate Diplomas (PGD), Master of Science (MSc.), Master of Philosophy (MPhil), and Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) degrees in Accounting, Business Administration, Mass Communication, and Computer Science.
Speaking with Muslim News, the University’s Registrar, Dr. Mustafa Kadri said Summit university is also witnessing remarkable infrastructural growth, with several buildings under construction, thanks to generous donations from key stakeholders.
According to him, Two college buildings, funded by Mrs. Mosun-Bello Olusoga and Engr. Moshood Kola Balogun, are set for completion by July 2025.
“The Chancellor, Alhaji (Dr.) Sulaiman Adebola Adegunwa, recently donated a Senate Building, while Chief Tunde Fanimokun has committed to the construction of two new colleges—the Okunnu College of Law and International Jurisprudence and the Folawiyo College of Arabic, Islamic Studies, and Digital Humanities.
The groundbreaking ceremony for these buildings took place at the residence of Alhaji Femi Okunnu in Victoria Island, Lagos, on March 1, 2025.
Summit University, Offa, remains steadfast in its mission to integrate Islamic values with academic excellence. Despite being a Muslim faith-based institution, it welcomes students from diverse backgrounds, providing an inclusive environment that fosters intellectual and moral development.
“The university ensures its graduates are well-rounded individuals equipped with essential skills such as Financial Literacy, Leadership, Acadopreneurship, Renewable Energy, Artificial Intelligence, ICT, and Heritage Storytelling.
“With a strong reputation for academic rigor, innovation, and ethical responsibility, Summit University, Offa, continues to solidify its place as a top-tier institution in Nigeria’s higher education landscape.
“Summit University, Offa has established itself as a reputable institution in Nigeria, committed to academic excellence and innovative education. The University’s strong reputation and commitment to academic excellence shows that the graduates are well-positioned for future academic pursuits. Our core values of integrity, inclusivity, innovation, and ethical responsibility which form the foundation of Summit University, Offa, Kwara State, Nigeria,” said Registrar.
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