Lagos State University has reaffirmed its status as Nigeria's University of First Choice, emerging as the most subscribed university for the 2026 admission year. According to the latest Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination Application Statistics by Institution released by the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board, the university recorded an impressive 84,326 first-choice applications.

The university maintains its position ahead of leading federal universities, including the University of Lagos with 78,240 applications and Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife, with 60,370 applications, ranking second and third respectively. This remarkable feat was formally announced during the ongoing 2026 JAMB Policy Meeting on Admissions held in Abuja.

LASU's continued dominance in national subscription statistics reflects the growing confidence of Nigerian students and parents in the university's academic excellence, stability, innovation, and student-focused administration. The institution has steadily transformed into one of the most sought-after universities in the country through strategic investments in teaching, research, infrastructure, digital innovation, and global competitiveness.

The university's upward trajectory has been noteworthy, rising from outside the top ten most subscribed universities in Nigeria before 2023 to third position in 2023 with over 55,000 applicants, second position in 2024 with 62,601 applicants, and emerging number one in 2025 with over 70,000 applications. The 2026 record of 84,326 applications further consolidates the institution's place as one of the fastest-rising universities in Africa.

The Vice-Chancellor, Distinguished Professor Ibiyemi Ibilola Olatunji-Bello, expressed appreciation to the Lagos State Government for providing leadership and praised stakeholders, particularly staff and students, for strengthening the university's reputation. She noted that the achievement validates the administration's vision to position LASU as a globally competitive institution driven by excellence, innovation, integrity, and impactful scholarship.

Distinguished Professor Olatunji-Bello assured prospective students that Lagos State University would continue to provide a conducive academic environment, industry-relevant programmes, and a transformative educational experience capable of preparing graduates for leadership and success in a rapidly evolving global society.