Private universities in Nigeria are growing fast. Why? They offer steady academic calendars, better learning environments, and modern facilities. If you want quality education without long strikes, these schools are a great choice.
But with over 100 private universities in Nigeria, choosing the right one can be tough. So, we’ve put together a list of the top 20 based on recent rankings, research quality, and overall student experience.
Let’s check them out
1. Covenant University – Ogun State
Founded in 2002 by Bishop David Oyedepo, Covenant University leads the pack. It’s known for innovation, discipline, and leadership training. The school focuses on tech, entrepreneurship, and moral values.
Top Courses: Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, Accounting
Tuition: ₦1.5M – ₦3M
🌐 www.covenantuniversity.edu.ng
2. Maryam Abacha American University – Kano State
Opened in 2013, this university blends Nigerian and American education styles. It’s fast becoming a top choice in northern Nigeria.
Top Courses: Medicine, Computer Science, International Relations
Tuition: ₦1M – ₦3M
🌐 www.maaun.edu.ng
3. Afe Babalola University (ABUAD) – Ekiti State
ABUAD started in 2009 and is famous for its medical school. The university also has top-notch labs and a busy teaching hospital.
Top Courses: Medicine, Law, Engineering
Tuition: ₦1.8M – ₦4M
🌐 www.abuad.edu.ng
4. Redeemer’s University – Osun State
Founded by the Redeemed Christian Church of God, this school stands out in science and tech research, especially genomics.
Top Courses: Cybersecurity, Microbiology, Biochemistry
Tuition: ₦800K – ₦2.5M
🌐 www.run.edu.ng
5. Landmark University – Kwara State
With a strong focus on agriculture, Landmark is training the next generation of agri-tech leaders.
Top Courses: Agriculture, Food Science, Mechanical Engineering
Tuition: ₦1M – ₦2.5M
🌐 www.lmu.edu.ng
6. Bowen University – Osun State
Established in 2001, Bowen offers a mix of solid academics and strong moral values. It’s backed by the Nigerian Baptist Convention.
Top Courses: Medicine, Law, Nursing
Tuition: ₦1M – ₦3.5M
🌐 www.bowen.edu.ng
7. Babcock
University – Ogun State
A pioneer in private education, Babcock was the first to offer Medicine in a private setting. It combines faith and learning.
Top Courses: Medicine, Mass Communication, Computer Science
Tuition: ₦1.2M – ₦4.5M
🌐 www.babcock.edu.ng
8. African University of Science & Technology – Abuja
AUST is mainly for postgraduate students. It focuses on research and advanced science programs.
Top Courses: Petroleum Engineering, Mathematics, Computer Science
Tuition: ₦1.5M – ₦3.5M
🌐 www.aust.edu.ng
9. Topfaith University – Akwa Ibom State
One of the newest on this list, Topfaith opened in 2021. It offers modern facilities and hands-on learning.
Top Courses: Law, Business Administration, Medicine
Tuition: ₦1M – ₦3M
🌐 www.topfaith.edu.ng
10. Pan-Atlantic University – Lagos State
Home to the Lagos Business School, PAU focuses on business, media, and entrepreneurship.
Top Courses: Business Admin, Media Studies, Economics
Tuition: ₦2M – ₦4.5M
🌐 www.pau.edu.ng
11. Nile University of Nigeria – Abuja
Founded in 2009, Nile is known for its international standards. The university has both Nigerian and foreign students.
Top Courses: Law, Medicine, Engineering
Tuition: ₦1.5M – ₦5M
🌐 www.nileuniversity.edu.ng
12. Chrisland University – Ogun State
Chrisland began in 2015 but is quickly rising. It offers solid academics and a safe, student-friendly environment.
Top Courses: Criminology, Accounting, Computer Science
Tuition: ₦600K – ₦1.5M
🌐 www.chrislanduniversity.edu.ng
13. Veritas University – Abuja
Established by the Catholic Church in 2007, Veritas offers a faith-driven education with a focus on ethics and development.
Top Courses: Philosophy, Political Science, Education
Tuition: ₦700K – ₦2M
🌐 www.veritas.edu.ng
14. Madonna University – Rivers State
Madonna is one of Nigeria’s first private universities. It offers a wide range of programs, including Law and Health Sciences.
Top Courses: Medicine, Law, Pharmacy
Tuition: ₦1M – ₦3.5M
🌐 www.madonnauniversity.edu.ng
15. American University of Nigeria (AUN) – Adamawa State
Founded by former VP Atiku Abubakar, AUN is modeled after American colleges. It focuses on leadership and development.
Top Courses: Information Technology, Communications, Economics
Tuition: ₦2M – ₦5M
🌐 www.aun.edu.ng
16. Joseph Ayo Babalola University (JABU) – Osun State
JABU is Nigeria’s first entrepreneurial university. It blends Christian values with skill-based learning.
Top Courses: Entrepreneurship, Agricultural Science, Banking
Tuition: ₦500K – ₦1.2M
🌐 www.jabu.edu.ng
17. Caleb University – Lagos State
Caleb started in 2008 and focuses on developing future leaders. It’s a popular choice in southwestern Nigeria.
Top Courses: Mass Communication, Architecture, Political Science
Tuition: ₦700K – ₦2.5M
🌐 www.calebuniversity.edu.ng
18. Lead City University – Oyo State
Located in Ibadan, Lead City has a flexible academic schedule and strong programs in the social sciences and management.
Top Courses: Public Health, Business Admin, Law
Tuition: ₦650K – ₦2.5M
🌐 www.lcu.edu.ng
19. Mountain Top University – Ogun State
Founded by Mountain of Fire Ministries, this school offers a faith-centered education in a serene setting.
Top Courses: Biochemistry, Microbiology, Economics
Tuition: ₦700K – ₦1.8M
🌐 www.mtu.edu.ng
20. Paul University – Anambra State
Paul University was established by the Anglican Church. It provides quality education with strong moral teachings.
Top Courses: Religious Studies, History, Education
Tuition: ₦400K – ₦1M
🌐 www.pauluniversity.edu.ng
Final Thoughts
Private universities in Nigeria are changing the game. They offer stable academic calendars, focused programs, and excellent learning environments. Whether you’re looking for tech, medicine, business, or agriculture, there’s a school here for you.
When choosing a university, consider more than just rankings. Look at tuition, courses, campus life, and how the school supports your career goals.
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