THE University of Ilorin (Unilorin) has, again, come first among Nigerian universities by international assessment.

According to the latest edition of the Webometrics ranking web of world universities, Unilorin emerged 31st in Africa, having scaled down some 24 other African universities that ranked above it in February.

While only two Nigerian universities were listed among the best 100 in Africa in 2008, five universities made the list in 2009, with the University of Ilorin being 77th in Africa and second in Nigeria.

By February, the university became first in Nigeria and 55th in Africa, with the total number of Nigerian universities in the best 100 remaining five.

The current ranking indicates that the Nigerian university system has improved significantly, with 16 universities listed in the best 100 in Africa and among the first globally competitive universities.

Meanwhile, the registrar of the university, Mrs Olufolake Oyeyemi, has said over 20,000 candidates are waiting to replace any member of staff that is not productive.

The registrar, who was represented by the deputy registrar, establishment, Mr Emmanuel Obafemi, said this during a meeting with administrative, executive and secretarial staff of the institution.

According to her, some workers of the the university spent few hours at work daily, while others were in the habit of reporting late to work.

She said more than 20,000 applicants responded to the recent advertisement published by the university, while warning those with bad attitude in the institution to desist.