The Maryam Abacha American University of Niger (MAAUN Niger) has emerged as the highest-ranked university in the Republic of Niger in the 2026 Times Higher Education (THE) Impact Rankings, marking a significant milestone for the country’s higher education sector.

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, research, innovation and sustainable development.

The achievement reinforces the university’s position as one of West Africa’s leading bilingual institutions and highlights its increasing contribution to advancing higher education and sustainable development across the continent.

Beyond its academic reputation, MAAUN Niger has built a strong record in healthcare education through its Colleges of Medical Laboratory Science, Nursing Sciences, Public Health and other allied health programmes.

Over the years, the institution has trained thousands of professionals who now serve in hospitals, research institutes, diagnostic laboratories, public health agencies and healthcare organisations across Niger Republic and other parts of the world.

The university has also continued to strengthen its profile through research, community engagement and innovation, with a focus on addressing pressing social, economic and public health challenges.

The Times Higher Education Impact Rankings assess universities based on their contributions to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), measuring institutions not only on academic performance but also on their impact on society through research, outreach, stewardship and teaching.

Commenting on the achievement, the Dean of Postgraduate Studies, Prof. Ibrahim Lawal, described the recognition as evidence of the university’s growing influence in higher education and sustainable development.

“The rankings are particularly significant because they assess not only academic excellence but also the practical impact universities have on society. The recognition of Maryam Abacha American University of Niger reflects its commitment to producing graduates while generating solutions to local and global development challenges,” he said.

Lawal noted that the university’s inclusion in the 2026 rankings reflects years of strategic investment in quality education, healthcare training, research and innovation.

He added that the recognition further positions MAAUN Niger as an emerging centre of excellence in Africa and is expected to enhance its international visibility, attract stronger academic partnerships and expand opportunities for research collaboration.

The latest ranking also underscores the growing role of African private universities in driving academic excellence, producing skilled professionals and contributing to sustainable development across the continent.