Top 10 Most Educated States in Nigeria: Education plays a central role in Nigeria’s development, and some states stand out for their literacy rates, school enrolment, and investment in higher education. According to the latest report by The Nations (remember their might be changes) and remember the aim of this post is to show how our states are improving in education these are the top 10 most educated states in Nigeria. This ranking highlights literacy performance, school attendance, and the presence of tertiary institutions across the country.
10. Delta State – Big Heart of the Nation
- Literacy Rate: 87.43%
- Tertiary Institutions: 33
Delta State has one of the highest numbers of tertiary institutions in Nigeria, totaling 33. However, it faces challenges with a 26% dropout rate and a 26% out-of-school rate at secondary school level.
9. Akwa Ibom State – Land of Promise
- Literacy Rate: 66.3%
- Tertiary Institutions: Multiple, including University of Uyo
Akwa Ibom’s free and compulsory education policy has boosted enrolment across primary and secondary levels. Although its literacy rate lags behind some states, continued investment in infrastructure and teacher training is steadily improving outcomes.
8. Edo State – Heartbeat of the Nation
- Literacy Rate: 90.53%
- Tertiary Institutions: 21
Edo State continues to strengthen education, hosting 21 tertiary institutions. Yet, a 24% dropout rate and 21% out-of-school rate show there’s still room for progress.
7. Osun State – Land of Virtue
- Literacy Rate: 74.7%
- Tertiary Institutions: Includes Osun State University
Osun is best known for Opon Imo (Tablet of Knowledge), a digital learning innovation. Despite challenges with literacy, the state remains relevant in advancing education through policy reforms.
6. Anambra State – Light of the Nation
- Literacy Rate: 92.11%
- Tertiary Institutions: 29
Anambra has one of the highest numbers of tertiary institutions (29). However, with a 28% dropout rate and a 19% out-of-school rate, it must address gaps in secondary education while sustaining its literacy progress.
5. Abia State – God’s Own State
- Literacy Rate: 94.24%
- Tertiary Institutions: 9
Abia continues to invest in education with a focus on science and technology. With nine tertiary institutions, it prepares its young population for opportunities in innovation and industry.
4. Rivers State – Treasure Base of the Nation
- Literacy Rate: 95.76%
- Tertiary Institutions: 6
Rivers ranks high in literacy but faces challenges with a 32% dropout rate and 20% out-of-school rate. Despite this, its six tertiary institutions remain critical to Nigeria’s academic and professional workforce.
3. Ekiti State – Fountain of Knowledge
- Literacy Rate: 95.79%
- Tertiary Institutions: 5
Ekiti is famous for its educational culture, earning the nickname “Fountain of Knowledge.” With a low 9% out-of-school rate, the state maintains impressive literacy results through strong investments in teacher training and infrastructure.
2. Lagos State – Centre of Excellence
- Literacy Rate: 96.30%
- Tertiary Institutions: 69
Nigeria’s commercial hub also dominates in education, boasting 69 tertiary institutions the highest in the country. Programs like Eko Excel have improved literacy and numeracy among students, though challenges with dropout and out-of-school rates remain.
1. Imo State – Eastern Heartland
- Literacy Rate: 96.43% (highest in Nigeria)
- Tertiary Institutions: 7
Imo State tops the list as the most educated state in Nigeria. With the highest literacy rate (96.43%), low 8% out-of-school rate, and seven tertiary institutions, Imo continues to set the pace for educational development nationwide.
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Conclusion
From Delta to Imo, Nigeria’s states reflect both progress and challenges in education. While Imo, Lagos, and Ekiti lead with remarkable literacy levels, others like Akwa Ibom and Delta are steadily improving. Sustained investment in teacher training, infrastructure, and digital learning will be the key to building a more literate Nigeria.
