This study examined how effectively institutional administrators utilize diverse funding architectures to enhance global competitiveness in universities within the North-Central geopolitical zone of Nigeria. A descriptive survey design was adopted, with the population comprising all 83 universities in the zone and a total of 9,814 institutional administrators (Heads of Departments and Deans of Faculties). A sample of 350 administrators was selected using a multistage sampling technique: stratification based on university ownership (Federal, State, and Private), clustering by universities, and random sampling within each cluster to select respondents. This approach ensured proportional representation, reduced sampling bias, and improved the reliability and generalizability of the findings. Data were gathered using two researcher-developed instruments: the University Funding Architecture Scale (UFAS) and the Global Competitiveness Indicators Inventory (GCII), each consisting of 10 items aligned with the study’s objectives. Validity was established through expert reviews in Educational Management, Business Education, and Measurement and Evaluation. A pilot study involving 25 administrators outside the study area, along with Cronbach’s Alpha, yielded reliability coefficients of 0.84 for UFAS and 0.88 for GCII, indicating high internal consistency. Data analysis was conducted using population t-test and One-Way ANOVA. The results showed that administrators’ effectiveness in utilizing funding architectures was not significantly low, and institutional characteristics such as ownership type, size, and funding diversification did not significantly influence their effectiveness. The study concludes that universities in the North-Central zone exhibit relatively stable and well-established funding utilization practices, and it recommends strengthening governance frameworks, continuous capacity development for administrators, and the integration of funding platforms to further improve global competitiveness.