UNILAG, OAU, UNILORIN, Lead in Social Media Trend as Nigerians Brag About Their Universities

In a country where higher education is often viewed as both a privilege and a pathway to success, Nigerians have once again demonstrated their deep pride in their alma maters. A viral social media trend tagged “Brag About Your University” has sparked a wave of humour, nostalgia, and rivalry as graduates and students passionately showcased what makes their institutions unique.

At the forefront of the conversation was the University of Lagos (UNILAG), widely referred to as the “University of First Choice.” Alumni proudly echoed its slogan with confidence. “University of first choice. I won’t say more. Everyone knows,” wrote pharmacist John Oyesile, reflecting the prestige UNILAG graduates often associate with their institution.

Not to be overshadowed, Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU) alumni touted their campus traditions and facilities. “The only university with 24 hours electricity,” one user bragged, while others recited the school anthem with pride, emphasizing its historical reputation and model after University College London.

Ladoke Akintola University of Technology (LAUTECH) was also celebrated as “the best state university in the country,” with graduates pointing to its resilience despite years of strikes. Similarly, University of Ilorin (UNILORIN)alumni leaned on their famous slogan, “Better by far,” a phrase that continues to define its culture of academic discipline and relative stability.

Other institutions joined in the bragging contest, each with unique points of pride. Tai Solarin University of Education (TASUED) alumni highlighted its status as Nigeria’s first university of education, while Olabisi Onabanjo University (OOU) graduates described their school as a “survival bootcamp and greatness factory.” Federal University of Technology, Minna (FUT Minna) graduates claimed the title of “best technology school in Nigeria,” while Babcock University alumni reminded all of its pioneering role in private higher education.

Even polytechnic graduates like those from Moshood Abiola Polytechnic (Mapoly) joined the fray, proving that Nigeria’s higher education identity goes beyond traditional universities. Humorous twists also appeared, with some participants jokingly identifying the “University of YouTube” as their alma mater, reflecting the rise of self-learning in the digital age.

The University of Abuja, Ekiti State University (EKSU), and international institutions such as the University of Glasgow also featured in the conversations, showing the blend of local and global pride among Nigerians.

Beyond the playful rivalries, the trend highlighted how different universities shape national identity in diverse ways—through culture, discipline, resilience, or technology. For many participants, the bragging was less about superiority and more about nostalgia, celebrating the survival, ambition, and lifelong lessons their schools imparted.

Ultimately, the viral trend painted a colorful picture of Nigeria’s educational landscape. Whether through UNILAG’s prestige, OAU’s traditions, UNILORIN’s discipline, LAUTECH’s resilience, or OOU’s grit, Nigerians made it clear that to brag about one’s university is to brag about identity, pride, and the transformative power of education.