When Mr Eazi’s old secondary school yearbook photo resurfaced online, it did more than just trigger nostalgia. The singer’s note “It’s not over until it’s over. See you at the top everyone cheers” had social media users digging for his classmates, comparing their life outcomes and talking about how school influenced their lives.
The viral post left many asking: does the secondary school you attend really influence your journey to the top?
While success has no single formula, it’s undeniable that some schools across Nigeria have built a strong reputation for nurturing excellence, discipline and ambition.
So, inspired by Mr Eazi’s throwback, let’s take a look at 10 of the top-rated secondary schools in Nigeria—not just in Lagos and Abuja, but from different parts of the country where tomorrow’s icons, innovators and leaders are already being groomed.
1. Loyola Jesuit College – Abuja
One of the most consistent names in WAEC and NECO rankings. Known for academic rigour, discipline and impressive admission rates into top universities worldwide.
Notable alumni:
- Iyinoluwa Aboyeji — co-founder of Andela; tech entrepreneur.
- Emmanuel “Bez” Idakula — singer, songwriter
- Kechi Okwuchi — Sosoliso Airlines crash survivor, America’s Got Talent finalist
Source: Campus Cybercafe — Best WAEC Results
2. Lifeforte International School – Ibadan, Oyo State
An elite boarding school offering British and Nigerian curricula. Known for nurturing all-round excellence and high achievers in exams like IGCSE and WAEC.
Source: Edusko — Top 25 Schools in Nigeria 2023
3. Grange School – Ikeja, Lagos
Founded in 1958, Grange remains one of Nigeria’s most respected schools with consistently strong IGCSE and WAEC results.
Source: Campus Cybercafe — Best WAEC Results
4. Olashore International High School – Iloko-Ijesha, Osun State
A boarding school with strong academic records and global links. Alumni have excelled across sectors, showing the school’s balanced approach.
Notable figure:
- Oba Oladele Olashore : founder of Olashore International School; banker, traditional ruler, and educator.
Source: Hynaija — Top 100 Secondary Schools
5. Queen’s College – Lagos
A federal government college for girls with decades of excellence. QC consistently produces some of the highest WAEC results nationwide.
Source: Educare News — Top 100 Secondary Schools
6. Graceland International School – Port Harcourt, Rivers State
One of the most recognised schools in the South-South, noted for its solid WAEC/NECO outcomes and strong extracurricular offerings.
Source: Edusko — Top 25 Schools in Nigeris 2023
7. King’s College – Lagos
Founded in 1909, King’s College remains one of Nigeria’s most prestigious schools, especially for boys. Its academic legacy and alumni network are unmatched.
Source: Campus Times — WAEC Rankings
8. Greater Tomorrow International College – Ikare-Akoko, Ondo State
A top performer in WAEC rankings, Greater Tomorrow has built a reputation for combining discipline, academics, and values.
Source: Edusko — Top 25 Schools in Nigeria 2023
9. Hillcrest International School – Jos, Plateau State
An American international school founded in 1942. Known for strong Christian values, international curriculum and excellent academic standards.
Source: Edusko — Top 25 Schools in Nigeria 2023
10. Lumen Christi International High School – Uromi, Edo State
A Catholic school that consistently tops WAEC rankings, with multiple students scoring distinctions across subjects each year.
Notable alumni:
- Jimi Agbaje – Pharmacist; politician in Lagos
Source: Hynaija — Top 100 Secondary Schools
Mr Eazi’s yearbook moment reminded everyone that success is a journey that begins much earlier than we think. While not everyone becomes a global superstar, the environment in which you spend your teenage years with teachers, peers, culture and academic rigour can make a big difference.
And as Mr Eazi’s note from years ago shows “it’s never over until it’s over.”
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