As part of our complete guide to list of all schools in Nigeria, this page contains the full list of all universities in Nigeria, including federal universities, state universities, and private universities officially approved by the National Universities Commission, NUC in the country.
Nigeria has hundreds of universities spread across the 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT). These institutions offer undergraduate and postgraduate programmes in disciplines such as medicine, engineering, law, sciences, arts, education, social sciences, agriculture, and technology.
Whether you are searching for:
- federal universities in Nigeria,
- state universities in Nigeria,
- private universities in Nigeria,
- the popular tertiary institutions in Nigeria,
- affordable universities,
- or accredited universities approved by the National Universities Commission (NUC),
this page provides a complete directory for students, parents, and admission seekers.
Tertiary institutions in Nigeria are grouped into three major categories:
Each category has its own advantages, school fees, admission policies, and academic structure.
Table of Contents
Federal Universities in Nigeria
Federal universities are owned and funded by the Federal Government of Nigeria. They are regulated by the National Universities Commission (NUC) and are generally more affordable than private universities.
Many federal universities are highly competitive because of:
- lower tuition fees,
- nationwide recognition,
- larger course offerings,
- and strong academic reputations.
Below is the list of popular federal tertiary institutions in Nigeria.
- Ahmadu Bello University (ABU), Zaria
- Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University, Bauchi, (ATBU)
- University of Abuja (UNIABUJA)
- University of Benin (UNIBEN)
- University of Calabar (UNICAL)
- University of Ibadan (UI)
- University of Ilorin (UNILORIN)
- University of Jos (UNIJOS)
- University of Lagos (UNILAG)
- University of Maiduguri (UNIMAID)
- University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN)
- University of Port Harcourt (UNIPORT)
- Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU)
- Bayero University Kano (BUK)
- Nnamdi Azikiwe University (UNIZIK)
- Federal University of Technology Akure (FUTA)
- Federal University of Technology Owerri (FUTO)
- Federal University of Technology Minna (FUTMINNA)
- …see full list of all the Federal Universities in Nigeria
State Universities in Nigeria
State universities are owned and managed by state governments. These institutions mainly serve residents of their states but also admit non-indigenes.
State universities are often:
- more affordable for indigenes,
- less competitive than federal universities,
- and rapidly expanding in infrastructure and course offerings.
List of State Universities in Nigeria
- Lagos State University (LASU)
- Delta State University (DELSU)
- Ekiti State University (EKSU)
- Osun State University (UNIOSUN)
- Olabisi Onabanjo University (OOU)
- Kaduna State University (KASU)
- Benue State University (BSU)
- Ebonyi State University (EBSU)
- Enugu State University of Science and Technology (ESUT)
- Plateau State University
- Bauchi State University
- Abia State University (ABSU)
- Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University
- Akwa Ibom State University
- Cross River University of Technology
- …see full list of all the state Universities in Nigeria.
Private Universities in Nigeria
Private universities are owned by individuals, organizations, or religious bodies. They are known for:
- stable academic calendars,
- modern facilities,
- smaller class sizes,
- and uninterrupted academic sessions.
However, private universities usually have higher tuition fees compared to federal and state universities.
List of Private Universities in Nigeria
- Covenant University
- Babcock University
- Afe Babalola University
- Bowen University
- Redeemer’s University
- Caleb University
- Bells University of Technology
- Igbinedion University
- Lead City University
- Nile University of Nigeria
- Pan-Atlantic University
- American University of Nigeria
- Madonna University
- Benson Idahosa University
- Veritas University
- Novena University
- Al-Hikmah University
- Crescent University
- Anchor University
- Mountain Top University
- Landmark University
- Joseph Ayo Babalola University
- Salem University
- Gregory University
- Rhema University
- Skyline University Nigeria
- Greenfield University
- Dominican University
- Thomas Adewumi University
- Trinity University
- Hallmark University
- Coal City University
- Westland University
- Topfaith University
- Arthur Jarvis University
- Miva Open University
- Wigwe University
- …see full list of all the Private Universities in Nigeria.
How Many Universities Are in Nigeria?
Nigeria currently has:
- 74 Federal universities
- 58 State universities
- 168 Private universities
- Specialized universities
- 29 Open and distance learning centres
The number of universities continues to increase as new institutions receive approval from the National Universities Commission (NUC).
Which Are the Popular Universities in Nigeria?
Some of the top-ranked and most respected tertiary institutions in Nigeria include:
- University of Ibadan (UI)
- University of Lagos (UNILAG)
- Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU)
- Ahmadu Bello University (ABU)
- University of Nigeria Nsukka (UNN)
- Covenant University
- Federal University of Technology Akure (FUTA)
- University of Ilorin (UNILORIN)
These universities are known for:
- academic excellence,
- strong research output,
- quality facilities,
- and competitive admission standards.
Affordable tertiary institutions in Nigeria
Federal universities are generally the cheapest universities in Nigeria because they receive major funding from the Federal Government. However, several affordable state universities also exist across different regions of the country.
Some affordable universities in Nigeria include:
- Ahmadu Bello University (ABU), Zaria
- University of Ilorin (UNILORIN), Ilorin
- Federal University Dutse (FUD), Jigawa
- University of Calabar (UNICAL), Calabar
- National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN)
- Taraba State University (TSU), Jalingo
- Nasarawa State University (NSUK), Keffi
- Gombe State University (GSU), Gombe
- Kaduna State University (KASU), Kaduna
- Yobe State University (YSU), Damaturu
- Ekiti State University (EKSU), Ado-Ekiti
- Ebonyi State University (EBSU), Abakaliki
School fees may vary depending on:
- Course of study
- Academic level
- Accommodation
- Indigene or non-indigene status
- Acceptance and departmental fees
Admission Requirements for Universities in Nigeria
To gain admission into most Nigerian universities, candidates usually need:
- JAMB UTME result
- WAEC, NECO, or NABTEB result
- Minimum required cut-off mark
- Post-UTME screening
- O’Level requirements
- Correct subject combination
Some universities also accept:
- Direct Entry,
- IJMB,
- JUPEB,
- and transfer admissions.
How to Know if a University in Nigeria Is Accredited
Before applying to any university, students should confirm that the institution is approved and accredited by the National Universities Commission (NUC).
Checking accreditation helps students avoid:
- unapproved universities,
- unaccredited degree programmes,
- and unrecognized certificates.
Federal vs State vs Private Universities in Nigeria
| University Type | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Federal Universities | – Lower school fees – Strong reputation – Large student population | – Competitive admission – Possible strikes |
| State Universities | – Easier admission opportunities – Lower competition in some states | – Higher fees for non-indigenes – Funding challenges in some states |
| Private Universities | – Stable academic calendar – Better learning environment – Faster graduation | – Expensive tuition fees |
Frequently Asked Questions About Universities in Nigeria
How many federal universities are in Nigeria?
Nigeria has dozens of federal universities spread across different states and geopolitical zones.
Which is the best federal university in Nigeria?
Universities such as UI, UNILAG, OAU, ABU, and UNN are widely regarded as some of the best federal universities in Nigeria.
Which private university is the best in Nigeria?
Covenant University, Afe Babalola University, Babcock University, and Nile University are among the top private universities in Nigeria.
Which university is the cheapest in Nigeria?
Most federal universities are cheaper than private institutions because they are subsidized by the government.
Are all universities in Nigeria accredited?
No. Students should always verify accreditation through the National Universities Commission (NUC).
Which universities accept low JAMB scores?
Some state universities, private universities, and specialized institutions may accept lower JAMB scores depending on the course and admission policy.
Final Thoughts
Nigeria has one of the largest university systems in Africa, with federal, state, and private institutions offering diverse academic programmes for students across the country.
Whether you are looking for affordable universities, top-ranked institutions, or universities with specific courses, understanding the different categories of universities in Nigeria can help you make the right admission decision.
Use this guide as your starting point when exploring all universities in Nigeria for the 2026 academic session.