Full List of State Universities in Nigeria (2026 Updated)

With over 60 State universities in Nigeria, this category have become one of the most popular options for students seeking quality education, affordable tuition, and easier admission opportunities. Nigeria’s university system is divided into three major categories: federal universities, state universities, and private universities.

If you are searching for the complete list of all state universities in Nigeria for 2026, this guide contains everything you need to know.

In this article, you will discover:

Full list of accredited state universities in Nigeria
State universities by state
Popular state universities in Nigeria
Affordable state universities in Nigeria
Admission requirements
Universities that accept IJMB
Alternatives to JAMB admission
Frequently asked questions

Full list of state universities in Nigeria in 2026

Below is the updated list of state universities in Nigeria for the 2026 academic session. Click on the name of each university listed below to get the full details such as cut off marks, courses, post-UTME, admission requirements, school fees, etc about the school.

Abia State University (ABSU), Uturu — located in Abia State.
Adamawa State University (ADSU), Mubi — located in Adamawa State.
Akwa Ibom State University (AKSU) — located in Akwa Ibom State.
Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University (COOU), Uli — located in Anambra State.
Sa’adu Zungur University (SAZU), Bauchi — located in Bauchi State.
Niger Delta University (NDU), Wilberforce Island — located in Bayelsa State.
Bayelsa Medical University (BMU), Yenagoa — located in Bayelsa State.
Benue State University (BSU), Makurdi — located in Benue State.
Borno State University (BOSU), Maiduguri — located in Borno State.
University of Cross River State (UNICROSS), Calabar — located in Cross River State.
Delta State University (DELSU), Abraka — located in Delta State.
Dennis Osadebay University, Asaba — located in Delta State.
Southern Delta University, Ozoro — located in Delta State.
University of Delta (UNIDEL), Agbor — located in Delta State.
Ebonyi State University (EBSU), Abakaliki — located in Ebonyi State.
King David Umahi University of Medical Sciences, Uburu — located in Ebonyi State.
Edo State University, Uzairue — located in Edo State.
Ambrose Alli University (AAU), Ekpoma — located in Edo State.
Ekiti State University (EKSU), Ado-Ekiti — located in Ekiti State.
Bamidele Olumilua University of Education, Science and Technology, Ikere-Ekiti — located in Ekiti State.
Enugu State University of Science and Technology (ESUT), Enugu — located in Enugu State.
Gombe State University (GSU), Gombe — located in Gombe State.
Gombe State University of Science and Technology — located in Gombe State.
Imo State University (IMSU), Owerri — located in Imo State.
Kingsley Ozumba Mbadiwe University, Ideato — located in Imo State.
Sule Lamido University (SLU), Kafin Hausa — located in Jigawa State.
Kaduna State University (KASU), Kaduna — located in Kaduna State.
Aliko Dangote University of Science and Technology, Wudil — located in Kano State.
Yusuf Maitama Sule University Kano (YUMSUK), Kano — located in Kano State.
Umaru Musa Yar’Adua University (UMYU), Katsina — located in Katsina State.
Kebbi State University of Science and Technology (KSUSTA), Aliero — located in Kebbi State.
Confluence University of Science and Technology (CUSTECH), Osara — located in Kogi State.
Kogi State University, Kabba — located in Kogi State.
Prince Abubakar Audu University, Anyigba — located in Kogi State.
Kwara State University (KWASU), Malete — located in Kwara State.
Lagos State University (LASU), Ojo — located in Lagos State.
Lagos State University of Education (LASUED), Ijanikin — located in Lagos State.
Lagos State University of Science and Technology (LASUSTECH), Ikorodu — located in Lagos State.
Nasarawa State University (NSUK), Keffi — located in Nasarawa State.
Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida University (IBBU), Lapai — located in Niger State.
Abdulkadir Kure University, Minna — located in Niger State.
Tai Solarin University of Education (TASUED), Ijagun — located in Ogun State.
Moshood Abiola University of Science and Technology (MAUSTECH), Abeokuta — located in Ogun State.
Adekunle Ajasin University (AAUA), Akungba-Akoko — located in Ondo State.
University of Medical Sciences (UNIMED), Ondo — located in Ondo State.
Osun State University (UNIOSUN), Osogbo — located in Osun State.
University of Ilesa (UNILESA), Ilesa — located in Osun State.
Ladoke Akintola University of Technology (LAUTECH), Ogbomoso — located in Oyo State.
Emmanuel Alayande University of Education, Oyo — located in Oyo State.
Oyo State Technical University (TECH-U), Ibadan — located in Oyo State.
Plateau State University (PLASU), Bokkos — located in Plateau State.
Rivers State University (RSU), Port Harcourt — located in Rivers State.
Ignatius Ajuru University of Education (IAUE), Port Harcourt — located in Rivers State.
Sokoto State University (SSU), Sokoto — located in Sokoto State.
Shehu Shagari University of Education, Sokoto — located in Sokoto State.
Taraba State University (TSU), Jalingo — located in Taraba State.
Yobe State University (YSU), Damaturu — located in Yobe State.
Zamfara State University (ZAMSUT), Talata Mafara — located in Zamfara State.

Over the years, many state governments have invested heavily in higher education by establishing universities focused on science, technology, medicine, agriculture, education, and entrepreneurship.

What Are State Universities in Nigeria?

State universities are tertiary institutions established and funded by state governments in Nigeria.

Unlike federal universities, which are owned by the Federal Government, state universities are managed by individual state administrations.

Most state universities are accredited by the National Universities Commission (NUC) and offer programmes in fields such as:

Medicine
Law
Engineering
Computer Science
Nursing
Agriculture
Education
Social Sciences
Arts and Humanities

Students often compare state universities with federal institutions before applying. If you also want to see the federal institutions available across the country, check our guide on Full List of All Federal Universities in Nigeria.

How Many State Universities Are in Nigeria 2026?

As of 2026, Nigeria has more than 60 approved state universities.

The number continues to grow as more state governments establish specialized universities for medicine, agriculture, technology, and education.

If you want to explore all categories of higher institutions across the country — including federal, private, polytechnics, colleges of education, and nursing schools — you should also read our complete guide on Full List of All Schools in Nigeria.

Popular State Universities in Nigeria 2026

Some state universities in Nigeria are widely respected for academic excellence, modern infrastructure, stable academic calendars, research quality, professional courses, and graduate employability. Over the years, several of these institutions have built strong reputations and now compete favorably with many federal universities in Nigeria.

1. Lagos State University (LASU)

Lagos State University (LASU) is one of the most prestigious and competitive state universities in Nigeria. Located in Ojo, Lagos State, LASU is widely recognized for its strong academic standards, experienced lecturers, and improved learning facilities.

The university is especially respected for courses such as:

Law
Medicine and Surgery
Accounting
Computer Science
Engineering
Mass Communication

LASU is also one of the most sought-after universities in southwest Nigeria because of its location in Lagos, Nigeria’s commercial capital.

2. Ladoke Akintola University of Technology (LAUTECH)

Ladoke Akintola University of Technology (LAUTECH), Ogbomoso, is one of Nigeria’s top science and technology-focused universities.

The institution is highly respected for:

Engineering
Medical Sciences
Nursing
Computer Science
Pure and Applied Sciences
Technology-related programmes

LAUTECH has consistently maintained a strong reputation for producing highly skilled graduates, particularly in technical and healthcare fields.

3. Rivers State University (RSU)

Rivers State University (RSU), Port Harcourt, remains one of the leading state universities in southern Nigeria.

The university is particularly known for:

Engineering
Environmental Sciences
Law
Management Sciences
Marine-related programmes

Due to its location in the oil-rich Niger Delta region, RSU has become a preferred choice for students interested in engineering and industrial-related disciplines.

4. Delta State University (DELSU)

Delta State University (DELSU), Abraka, is one of the most popular state universities in Nigeria.

The institution attracts thousands of applicants yearly because of:

Broad course offerings
Relatively stable academic calendar
Affordable tuition compared to private universities
Strong reputation in arts, sciences, and professional courses

DELSU is widely recognized across southern Nigeria and continues to rank among the most competitive state universities in the country.

5. Ekiti State University (EKSU)

Ekiti State University (EKSU), Ado-Ekiti, is one of the oldest and most recognized state universities in southwest Nigeria.

The university is known for:

Education programmes
Law
Sciences
Social Sciences
Arts and Humanities

EKSU has built a reputation for academic excellence and remains a top choice for many students seeking affordable university education.

6. Osun State University (UNIOSUN)

Osun State University (UNIOSUN), Osogbo, has become increasingly popular in recent years because of its modern learning environment and multiple-campus system.

The university is respected for:

Nursing Science
Medicine
Public Health
Law
Computer Science
Agricultural programmes

UNIOSUN also attracts students because of its improved infrastructure and flexible academic system.

7. Akwa Ibom State University (AKSU)

Akwa Ibom State University (AKSU) is one of the fastest-growing state universities in Nigeria. Located in Akwa Ibom State, the university has gained recognition for its peaceful learning environment, quality infrastructure, and growing academic reputation.

AKSU is known for programmes such as:

Engineering
Biological Sciences
Physical Sciences
Management Sciences
Education
Social Sciences

The university continues to attract students from different parts of Nigeria because of its modern facilities, conducive campus atmosphere, and commitment to academic development.

8. Kwara State University (KWASU)

Kwara State University (KWASU), Malete, is one of the most innovative state universities in Nigeria.

The university is widely recognized for promoting:

Entrepreneurship education
ICT and digital learning
Agricultural programmes
Environmental sciences
Mass Communication

KWASU has also become popular among students interested in modern skill-based education.

9. Kaduna State University (KASU)

Kaduna State University (KASU) is one of the leading state universities in northern Nigeria.

The institution has grown significantly over the years and is known for:

Medicine
Nursing
Pharmacy
Social Sciences
Education programmes

KASU remains a major destination for students across northern Nigeria due to its diverse programmes and affordable education.

10. Benue State University (BSU)

Benue State University (BSU), Makurdi, is another respected state university in Nigeria.

The institution is recognized for:

Medical programmes
Law
Agriculture
Education
Social Sciences

BSU has continued to expand its academic offerings and infrastructure, making it one of the most established state universities in the Middle Belt region of Nigeria.

Pros of State Universities in Nigeria

Easier admission opportunities
Lower competition levels
Affordable education
Wide range of courses
Flexible admission policies
IJMB and Direct Entry options
Improved infrastructure
Stable academic calendar in some schools
Better admission chances for indigenes
Modern learning facilities
More accessible education across states
Growing ICT and digital learning systems

Cons of State Universities in Nigeria

Higher fees for non-indigenes
Funding challenges
Limited facilities in some schools
Political interference
Staff strike actions
Admission bias for indigenes
Inconsistent academic standards across institutions
Poor hostel accommodation in some universities
Lower national ranking for some schools
Overcrowded classrooms in certain institutions

State Universities That Accept IJMB in Nigeria

Many state universities in Nigeria accept IJMB for Direct Entry admission into 200 level.

If you do not know what IJMB means or how it works, read our complete guide on What Is IJMB Programme?

Some of the popular state universities that accept IJMB include:

Kaduna State University (KASU)
Benue State University (BSU)
Kwara State University (KWASU)
Ekiti State University (EKSU)
Delta State University (DELSU)
Rivers State University (RSU)
Nasarawa State University (NSUK)
Osun State University (UNIOSUN)
Imo State University (IMSU)

Lagos State University (LASU) is sometimes listed among universities accepting IJMB, while some updated IJMB portals indicate that LASU mainly prefers JUPEB for Direct Entry admission in certain programmes. Because admission policies can change, candidates should always confirm the latest requirements directly from the university before applying.

IJMB remains one of the most popular alternatives for students who want university admission without depending entirely on UTME. You can also explore more admission pathways in our guide on Top 6 Alternatives to JAMB for University Admission in Nigeria 2026.

Affordable State Universities in Nigeria

Students often search for affordable state universities in Nigeria, especially institutions with lower tuition fees and relatively cheaper living costs.

While many northern universities are generally more affordable, there are also several budget-friendly state universities across the South-East, South-West, and South-South regions.

Some affordable state universities in Nigeria include:

Taraba State University (TSU) — North-East
Nasarawa State University (NSUK) — North-Central
Gombe State University (GSU) — North-East
Kaduna State University (KASU) — North-West
Yobe State University (YSU) — North-East
Delta State University (DELSU) — South-South
Ekiti State University (EKSU) — South-West
Imo State University (IMSU) — South-East
Osun State University (UNIOSUN) — South-West
Benue State University (BSU) — North-Central
Akwa Ibom State University (AKSU) — South-South
Ebonyi State University (EBSU) — South-East

School fees may vary yearly depending on government policies, course of study, and whether a student is an indigene or non-indigene.

Some Competitive State Universities in Nigeria 2026

Some state universities receive large numbers of applications every year.

These include:

Lagos State University (LASU)
LAUTECH
DELSU
Akwa Ibom State University, AKSU
Rivers State University
UNIOSUN

Courses with the highest competition usually include:

Medicine and Surgery
Nursing
Pharmacy
Law
Computer Science
Engineering

Admission Requirements for State Universities in Nigeria

Most state universities require candidates to:

Register for JAMB UTME
Meet the required cut-off mark
Have at least five O’Level credits
Participate in Post-UTME screening

However, admission policies in Nigeria are gradually evolving.

This follows recent discussions about reducing dependence on UTME for some programmes, especially education and agriculture-related courses.

You can read more about this development in our article on Why FG Scraps JAMB/UTME for NCE, Education and Agric Courses.

Federal vs State Universities in Nigeria

Feature	Federal Universities	State Universities
Ownership	Federal Government	State Government
School Fees	Usually lower	Moderate
Competition	Very high	Moderate
Admission Chances	More competitive	Easier in some cases
Catchment Advantage	Nationwide	State indigenes

If you want to compare both categories fully, check our complete guide on List of All Universities in Nigeria.

Why Many Students Prefer State Universities in Nigeria

The popularity of state universities continues to increase because:

Federal universities are highly competitive
Private universities are expensive
Many state universities now have modern facilities
Some state universities maintain stable academic calendars
Students can access flexible admission options

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Which is the best state university in Nigeria?

LASU, LAUTECH, DELSU, RSU, and UNIOSUN are among the top-ranked state universities in Nigeria.

How many state universities are in Nigeria?

Nigeria currently has more than 60 state universities.

Can I gain admission into a state university without JAMB?

Yes. Programmes like IJMB, JUPEB, pre-degree, and Direct Entry provide alternative admission routes.

Which state university has the cheapest school fees?

Some affordable options include Taraba State University, Gombe State University, and Nasarawa State University.

Are state universities accredited in Nigeria?

Yes. Most recognized state universities are accredited by the National Universities Commission (NUC).

Final Thoughts on State Universities in Nigeria

State universities in Nigeria continue to play a major role in expanding access to higher education across the country.

Whether you are searching for affordable tuition, quality education, or flexible admission opportunities, there are many excellent state universities to consider in 2026.

Before applying, make sure you:

Confirm accreditation status
Compare school fees
Check hostel availability
Review admission requirements
Verify cut-off marks for your course

You should also explore related guides to help you make better admission decisions:

Choosing the right university is one of the most important educational decisions you will make, so take time to compare your options carefully before applying.