Why Choosing the Right Secondary School Matters
Choosing the right secondary school is one of the most important decisions any parent can make. Top 10 Best Secondary Schools in Ondo State This choice doesn’t just determine where a child will spend their teenage years it can shape their academic foundation, personal values, and career trajectory.
A good secondary school provides more than classrooms and teachers; it offers a supportive learning environment, strong moral guidance, opportunities for growth, and a solid platform for future success.
In Ondo State, Nigeria, parents are fortunate to have a wide variety of outstanding secondary schools to choose from. From top federal unity schools and reputable mission schools to fast growing private institutions with international standards, there’s something to match every student’s learning style and family preference.
In this article, we rank and review the Top 10 Best Secondary Schools in Ondo State, highlighting what makes each one unique, their strengths, and why they stand out academically and morally.
1. Federal Government College, Idoani – (Federal School)
Federal Government College (FGC) Idoani is one of Nigeria’s most prestigious federal unity schools. Over the decades, it has built a strong reputation for academic excellence, discipline, and cultural diversity.
The school attracts students from across the country, fostering national unity and exposing students to diverse perspectives. It offers a robust curriculum that blends academics with extracurricular activities like debates, sports, science clubs, and cultural events.
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Location: Idoani, Ondo State
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School Type: Federal Unity School
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Known For: Academic excellence, cultural diversity, balanced education
Related: How to Apply to Federal Unity Schools in Nigeria

2. St. Louis Grammar School, Akure – (Missionary Girls’ School)
St. Louis Grammar School is a respected all girls missionary school known for its discipline, academic performance, and strong moral upbringing. Over the years, the school has produced some of Nigeria’s most successful women in law, medicine, politics, and education.
It consistently records outstanding performance in WAEC and NECO examinations. Its serene environment and value driven leadership make it a trusted choice for parents seeking structured academic and moral formation for their daughters.
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Location: Akure
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School Type: Missionary Girls’ School
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Known For: Discipline, excellent WAEC performance, moral values

3. Greater Tomorrow International College, Arigidi-Akoko – (Private)
Greater Tomorrow International College (GTIC) is a fast-rising modern private secondary school that integrates Nigerian and international curricula. Its infrastructure is top notch featuring modern science labs, digital classrooms, and innovative teaching methods.
GTIC places strong emphasis on STEM education, entrepreneurial skills, and technology integration, preparing students to thrive in a global environment.
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Location: Arigidi-Akoko
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School Type: Private
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Known For: Modern facilities, global curriculum, innovation and technology

4. Fiwasaye Girls’ Grammar School, Akure – (Missionary Girls’)
Fiwasaye Girls’ Grammar School is another top performing all-girls institution that has maintained a high level of academic consistency over the years. Known for instilling discipline and excellence, Fiwasaye has a special focus on science and technology education for girls, empowering them to compete in fields where female representation is often limited.
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Location: Akure
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School Type: Missionary Girls’ School
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Known For: Academic consistency, science focus, moral discipline

5. Owo High School, Owo – (Public)
Owo High School is one of the oldest and most respected public schools in Ondo State. With a proud history dating back decades, the school has produced many prominent Nigerians in leadership, education, and public service.
Despite being a public institution, Owo High School has maintained high academic standards, making it one of the few public schools that still rival top private and missionary schools in WAEC performance.
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Location: Owo
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School Type: Public
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Known For: Legacy of excellence, leadership history, academic reputation
Read more: WAEC Performance by Public Schools in Ondo State

6. Aquinas College, Akure – (Missionary Boys’)
Aquinas College is a prestigious all boys school with a rich legacy of academic excellence and character development. Its strong alumni network plays a key role in supporting the school and mentoring current students.
The school promotes leadership, spirituality, and scholarship, producing confident and well rounded young men.
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Location: Akure
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School Type: Missionary Boys’ School
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Known For: Alumni network, academic excellence, leadership grooming
7. Hallmark Secondary School, Ondo – (Private)
Hallmark Secondary School is a fast growing private school known for its modern facilities, qualified teachers, and holistic curriculum. It combines academic learning with extracurricular activities, leadership training, and skill development.
In a short time, Hallmark has earned a reputation as a preferred choice for parents who want a modern and well structured private education for their children.
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Location: Ondo
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School Type: Private
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Known For: Excellent teaching, modern classrooms, fast growth
8. St. Joseph’s College, Ondo – (Catholic)
St. Joseph’s College is a Catholic secondary school that blends moral education with academic rigor. Its teachers are known for their dedication and high standards, creating a competitive learning environment where students are encouraged to strive for excellence.
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Location: Ondo
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School Type: Catholic Mission School
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Known For: Moral and academic balance, committed teachers
9. C.A.C. Grammar School, Akure – (Missionary/Public)
Christ Apostolic Church Grammar School is a faith based institution with a long history of WAEC and NECO success. The school integrates moral values with academic learning, creating a balanced atmosphere for intellectual and personal development.
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Location: Akure
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School Type: Missionary/Public
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Known For: WAEC success, faith-based education, discipline
10. Preston International School, Akure – (Private International)
Preston International School provides a modern, student centered learning experience that blends Nigerian and British curricula. The school is equipped with state of the art technology, including digital learning platforms and science laboratories that support 21st-century education.
It’s particularly attractive to parents seeking international exposure for their children without sending them abroad.
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Location: Akure
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School Type: Private International
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Known For: Technology integration, international curriculum, global standards
Top Features Parents Should Look for When Choosing a Secondary School
When selecting a secondary school in Ondo State, here are some key factors to consider:
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Academic performance and exam results (WAEC, NECO, JAMB)
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Discipline and moral instruction
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Co-curricular and extracurricular activities such as sports, clubs, arts, and debates
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Boarding facilities (if applicable)
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Security and safety measures
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Alumni success and the school’s reputation
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Teacher qualifications and professionalism
These factors can significantly affect your child’s academic growth, confidence, and moral development.
Summary of Rankings
Here’s a quick recap of the Top 10 Secondary Schools in Ondo State 2025:
| Rank | School Name | Type | Known For |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Federal Government College, Idoani | Federal | Academic excellence, diversity |
| 2 | St. Louis Grammar School, Akure | Missionary Girls’ | Discipline, WAEC performance |
| 3 | Greater Tomorrow International College | Private | Modern facilities, global curriculum |
| 4 | Fiwasaye Girls’ Grammar School, Akure | Missionary Girls’ | Science focus, strong values |
| 5 | Owo High School | Public | Legacy, leadership history |
| 6 | Aquinas College, Akure | Missionary Boys’ | Alumni network, leadership |
| 7 | Hallmark Secondary School, Ondo | Private | Excellent teaching, fast growth |
| 8 | St. Joseph’s College, Ondo | Catholic | Moral and academic balance |
| 9 | C.A.C. Grammar School, Akure | Missionary/Public | WAEC success, faith-based education |
| 10 | Preston International School, Akure | Private International | Tech integration, global standards |
Final Thoughts
Ondo State stands out as one of the Nigerian states with a rich educational heritage. Whether you’re seeking a federal school with national diversity, a mission school with strong moral grounding, or a private institution offering modern, international exposure, there’s a school that fits your child’s unique needs.
The Top 10 Best Secondary Schools in Ondo State listed above have demonstrated academic excellence, discipline, and innovation, making them excellent choices for parents and beyond. Take the time to visit these schools, ask questions, review their facilities, and choose the one that best aligns with your child’s strengths and your family’s values.