List of Private Universities in Nigeria

Nigeria’s higher education landscape has expanded significantly in recent years, with private universities playing a crucial role in providing quality, accessible, and often more flexible education. From faith-based institutions to specialized medical and technology universities, private universities cater to diverse academic and career goals.

This article provides a complete, up-to-date list of all 182 approved private universities in Nigeria, alongside practical guidance on choosing the right institution, understanding admission requirements, and weighing the pros and cons of private higher education.

What Are Private Universities in Nigeria?

Private universities in Nigeria are tertiary institutions established, owned, and managed by individuals, religious organizations, or corporate bodies, rather than the federal or state government. They operate under the approval and regulation of the National Universities Commission (NUC), which ensures they meet national academic standards.

Key characteristics of private universities include:

• Ownership: Privately funded and managed.
• Regulation: Accredited and supervised by the NUC.
• Fees: Generally higher than public universities, but often with better infrastructure and smaller class sizes.
• Programmes: Wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate courses, including specialized fields like medicine, engineering, law, and business.
• Flexibility: More adaptable academic calendars, reducing the impact of strikes and administrative delays common in public institutions.

As of 2026, Nigeria has 182 NUC-approved private universities, spread across all six geopolitical zones

S/N	University Name	Abbreviation	Location	Website	Year Est.
1	Babcock University, Ilishan-Remo	BU	Ilishan-Remo, Ogun State	https://www.babcock.edu.ng	1999
2	Igbinedion University Okada	IUO	Okada, Edo State	https://www.iuokada.edu.ng	1999
3	Madonna University, Okija	MU	Okija, Anambra State	https://www.madonnauniversity.edu.ng	1999
4	Bowen University, Iwo	BU	Iwo, Osun State	https://www.bowen.edu.ng	2001
5	Benson Idahosa University, Benin City	BIU	Benin City, Edo State	https://www.biu.edu.ng/	2002
6	Covenant University Ota	CU	Ota, Ogun State	https://www.covenantuniversity.edu.ng/	2002
7	Pan-Atlantic University, Lagos	PAU	Lekki, Lagos State	https://www.pau.edu.ng	2002
8	American University of Nigeria, Yola	AUN	Yola, Adamawa State	https://www.aun.edu.ng	2003
9	Ajayi Crowther University, Ibadan	ACU	Oyo, Oyo State	https://www.acu.edu.ng	2005
10	Al-Hikmah University, Ilorin	AHU	Ilorin, Kwara State	https://www.alhikmah.edu.ng	2005
11	Al-Qalam University, Katsina	AUK	Katsina, Katsina State	https://www.auk.edu.ng	2005
12	Bells University of Technology, Otta	BUT	Ota, Ogun State	https://www.bellsuniversity.edu.ng/	2005
13	Bingham University, New Karu	BHU	New Karu, Nasarawa State	https://www.binghamuni.edu.ng	2005
14	Caritas University, Enugu	—	Enugu, Enugu State	https://www.caritasuni.edu.ng/	2005
15	Crawford University Igbesa	—	Igbesa, Ogun State	https://www.crawforduniversity.edu.ng	2005
16	Crescent University	—	Abeokuta, Ogun State	https://www.crescent-university.edu.ng	2005
17	Kwararafa University, Wukari	—	Wukari, Taraba State	https://www.kwararafauniversity.edu.ng	2005
18	Lead City University, Ibadan	LCU	Ibadan, Oyo State	https://www.lcu.edu.ng	2005
19	Novena University, Ogume	—	Ogume, Delta State	https://www.novenauniversity.edu.ng	2005
20	Redeemer’s University, Ede	RUN	Ede, Osun State	https://www.run.edu.ng	2005
21	Renaissance University, Enugu	—	Ugbawka, Enugu State	https://www.rnu.edu.ng	2005
22	University of Mkar, Mkar	—	Mkar, Benue State	https://www.unimkar.edu.ng	2005
23	Joseph Ayo Babalola University, Ikeji-Arakeji	JABU	Ikeji-Arakeji, Osun State	https://www.jabu.edu.ng	2006
24	Achievers University, Owo	AC	Owo, Ondo State	https://www.achievers.edu.ng	2007
25	Caleb University, Lagos	CUl	Ikorodu, Lagos State	https://www.calebuniversity.edu.ng	2007
26	Fountain University, Oshogbo	FUO	Osogbo, Osun State	https://www.fuo.edu.ng	2007
27	African University of Science and Technology, Abuja	AUST	Abuja, FCT	http://aust.edu.ng/	2007
28	Obong University, Obong Ntak	—	Obong Ntak, Akwa Ibom State	https://www.obonguniversity.net	2007
29	Salem University, Lokoja	—	Lokoja, Kogi State	https://www.salemuniversity.edu.ng	2007
30	Tansian University, Umunya	—	Umunya, Anambra State	https://tansianuniversity.edu.ng/	2007
31	Veritas University, Abuja	VUNA	Bwari, FCT	https://www.veritas.edu.ng	2007
32	Wesley University Ondo	WUO	Ondo Town, Ondo State	https://www.wesleyuni.edu.ng	2007
33	Western Delta University, Oghara Delta State	WDU	Oghara, Delta State	https://wdu.edu.ng	2007
34	Afe Babalola University, Ado-Ekiti – Ekiti State	ABUAD	Ado-Ekiti, Ekiti State	https://www.abuad.edu.ng	2009
35	Godfrey Okoye University, Ugwuomu-Nike – Enugu State	GOU	Enugu, Enugu State	https://www.gouni.edu.ng	2009
36	Nile University of Nigeria, Abuja	NUN	Abuja, FCT	https://www.nileuniversity.edu.ng/	2009
37	Oduduwa University, Ipetumodu – Osun State	OUI	Ipetumodu, Osun State	https://www.oduduwauniversity.edu.ng	2009
38	Paul University, Awka – Anambra State	—	Awka, Anambra State	https://www.pauluniversity.edu.ng	2009
39	Rhema University, Obeama-Asa – Rivers State	—	Aba, Abia State	https://www.rhemauniversity.edu.ng	2009
40	Wellspring University, Evbuobanosa – Edo State	—	Evbuobanosa, Edo State	https://www.wellspringuniversity.net	2009
41	Adeleke University, Ede	AUE	Ede, Osun State	https://www.adelekeuniversity.edu.ng	2011
42	Baze University	BAZE	Abuja, FCT	https://www.bazeuniversity.edu.ng	2011
43	Landmark University, Omu-Aran.	LU	Omu-Aran, Kwara State	https://www.lmu.edu.ng	2011
44	Glorious Vision University, Ogwa, Edo State.	SAU	Ogwa, Edo State	https://www.sau.edu.ng/	2011
45	Elizade University, Ilara-Mokin	EU	Ilara-Mokin, Ondo State	https://www.elizadeuniversity.edu.ng	2012
46	Evangel University, Akaeze	EUA	Akaeze, Ebonyi State	https://www.evangeluniversity.edu.ng	2012
47	Gregory University, Uturu	GUU	Uturu, Abia State	https://www.gregoryuniversity.com/	2012
48	Mcpherson University, Seriki Sotayo, Ajebo	MCU	Seriki Sotayo, Ogun State	https://www.mcu.edu.ng	2012
49	Southwestern University, Oku Owa	—	Oku Owa, Ogun State	https://www.southwesternuniversity.edu.ng	2012
50	Augustine University	AUI	Ilara, Lagos State	https://www.augustineuniversity.edu.ng/	2015
51	Chrisland University	CLU	Abeokuta, Ogun State	https://www.chrislanduniversity.edu.ng	2015
52	Edwin Clark University, Kaigbodo	ECU	Kiagbodo, Delta State	https://www.edwinclarkuniversity.edu.ng/	2015
53	Hallmark University, Ijebi Itele, Ogun	—	Ijebu-Itele, Ogun State	https://www.hallmark.edu.ng	2015
54	Hezekiah University, Umudi	—	Umudi, Imo State	https://hezekiah.edu.ng/	2015
55	Kings University, Ode Omu	KU	Odeomu, Osun State	https://www.kingsuniversity.edu.ng/	2015
56	Micheal & Cecilia Ibru University	MCIU	Agbara-Otor, Delta State	https://mciu.edu.ng/	2015
57	Mountain Top University	MTU	Makogi-Oba, Ogun State	https://www.mtu.edu.ng	2015
58	Ritman University, Ikot Ekpene, Akwa Ibom	—	Ikot Ekpene, Akwa Ibom State	https://www.ritmanuniversity.edu.ng	2015
59	Summit University, Offa	—	Offa, Kwara State	https://www.summituniversity.edu.ng	2015
60	Christopher University Mowe	—	Mowe, Ogun State	https://www.christopheruniversity.edu.ng/	2015
61	Kola Daisi University Ibadan, Oyo State	KU	Ibadan, Oyo State	https://www.koladaisiuniversity.edu.ng/	2016
62	Anchor University Ayobo Lagos State	—	Ayobo, Lagos State	https://www.aul.edu.ng/	2016
63	Dominican University Ibadan Oyo State	DUI	Ibadan, Oyo State	https://www.dui.edu.ng/	2016
64	Legacy University, Okija Anambra State	—	Okija, Anambra State	https://www.legacyuniversity.edu.ng/	2016
65	Arthur Javis University Akpoyubo Cross river State	AJU	Akpabuyo, Cross River State	https://www.arthurjarvisuniversity.edu.ng/	2016
66	Ojaja University Eiyenkorin, Kwara State	—	Eiyenkorin, Kwara State	https://www.crownhilluniversity.edu.ng/	2016
67	Coal City University Enugu State	CCU	Enugu, Enugu State	https://www.ccu.edu.ng/	2016
68	Clifford University Owerrinta Abia State	CLU	Owerrinta, Abia State	https://www.clifforduni.edu.ng/	2016
69	Spiritan University, Nneochi Abia State	—	Nneochi, Abia State	https://www.spiritanuniversity.edu.ng	2017
70	Precious Cornerstone University, Oyo	PCU	Ibadan, Oyo State	https://www.pcu.edu.ng	2017
71	PAMO University of Medical Sciences, Portharcourt	—	Port Harcourt, Rivers State	https://www.pums.edu.ng	2017
72	Atiba University Oyo	—	Oyo, Oyo State	https://atibauniversity.edu.ng	2017 atibauniversity.edu
73	Eko University of Medical and Health Sciences Ijanikin, Lagos	—	Ijanikin, Lagos State	https://www.ekounivmed.edu.ng	2017
74	Skyline University, Kano	SUN	Kano, Kano State	https://www.sun.edu.ng	2018
75	Greenfield University, Kaduna	GFU	Kaduna, Kaduna State	https://www.gfu.edu.ng	2019
76	Dominion University Ibadan, Oyo State	—	Ibadan, Oyo State	https://www.dominionuniversity.edu.ng/	2019
77	Trinity University Ogun State	—	Ogun State	https://www.trinityuniversity.edu.ng/	2019
78	Westland University Iwo, Osun State	WUI	Iwo, Osun State	https://westland.edu.ng	2019 westland.edu
79	Topfaith University, Mkpatak, Akwa Ibom State	—	Mkpatak, Akwa Ibom State	https://topfaith.edu.ng	2021 linkedin
80	Thomas Adewumi University, Oko-Irese, Kwara State	—	Oko-Irese, Kwara State	https://www.tau.edu.ng/	2021
81	Maranatha University, Lagos	—	Lagos, Lagos State	—	2021
82	Ave Maria University, Piyanko, Nasarawa State	AMU	Piyanko, Nasarawa State	—	2021
83	Al-Istiqama University, Sumaila, Kano State	—	Sumaila, Kano State	—	2021
84	Mudiame University, Irrua, Edo State	—	Irrua, Edo State	—	2021
85	Havilla University, Nde-Ikom, Cross River State	—	Nde-Ikom, Cross River State	https://havillauniversity.edu.ng/	2021
86	Claretian University of Nigeria, Nekede, Imo State	—	Nekede, Imo State	—	2021
87	Karl-Kumm University, Vom, Plateau State	—	Vom, Plateau State	—	2021
88	James Hope University, Lagos, Lagos State	JHU	Lekki, Lagos State	https://www.jhu.edu.ng	2021
89	Maryam Abacha American University of Nigeria, Kano State	—	Kano, Kano State	https://www.maaun.edu.ng/	2021
90	Capital City University, Kano State	—	Kano, Kano State	https://www.ccuk.edu.ng/	2021
91	Ahman Pategi University, Kwara State	APU	Patigi, Kwara State	—	2021
92	University of Offa, Kwara State	—	Offa, Kwara State	—	2021
93	Mewar International University, Masaka, Nasarawa State	—	Masaka, Nasarawa State	https://www.miu.edu.ng/	2021
94	Edusoko University, Bida, Niger State	—	Bida, Niger State	—	2021
95	Philomath University, Kuje, Abuja	—	Kuje, FCT	—	2021
96	Anan University, Kwall, Plateau State	—	Kwall, Plateau State	—	2021
97	North Eastern University, Gombe	—	Gombe, Gombe State	https://pru.edu.ng/	2022
98	Al-Ansar University, Maiduguri, Borno	AUM	Maiduguri, Borno State	https://www.aum.edu.ng	2022
99	Margaret Lawrence University, Umunede, Delta State	—	Umunede, Delta State	—	2022
100	Khalifa Isiyaku Rabiu University, Kano	—	Kano, Kano State	—	2022
101	Sports University, Idumuje, Ugboko, Delta State	—	Idumuje-Ugboko, Delta State	—	2022
102	Baba Ahmed University, Kano State	—	Kano, Kano State	—	2022
103	Saisa University of Medical Sciences and Technology, Sokoto State	—	Sokoto, Sokoto State	—	2022
104	Nigerian British University, Asa, Abia State	—	Asa, Abia State	https://nbu.edu.ng/	2022
105	Peter University, Achina-Onneh Anambra State	—	Achina-Onneh, Anambra State	—	2022
106	Newgate University, MInna, Niger State.	—	Minna, Niger State	—	2022
107	European University of Nigeria, Duboyi, FCT	—	Duboyi, FCT	—	2022
108	NorthWest University Sokoto State	—	Sokoto, Sokoto State	https://nwus.edu.ng/	2022
109	Rayhaan University, Kebbi	—	Kebbi State	—	2023
110	Muhammad Kamalud University Kwara	—	Kwara State	—	2023
111	Sam Maris University, Ondo	SMU	Supare, Ondo State	—	2023
112	Aletheia University, Ago-Iwoye Ogun State	—	Ago-Iwoye, Ogun State	—	2023
113	Lux Mundi University Umuahia, Abia State	—	Umuahia, Abia State	—	2023
114	Maduka University, Ekwegbe, Enugu State	—	Ekwegbe, Enugu State	—	2023
115	PeaceLand University, Enugu State	PUE	Enugu, Enugu State	—	2023
116	Amadeus University, Amizi, Abia State	—	Amizi, Abia State	—	2023
117	Vision University, Ikogbo, Ogun State	—	Ikogbo, Ogun State	—	2023
118	Azman University, Kano State	—	Kano, Kano State	—	2023
119	Huda University, Gusau, Zamafara State	—	Gusau, Zamfara State	—	2023
120	Franco British International University, Kaduna State	—	Kaduna, Kaduna State	https://fbiu.edu.ng/	2023
121	Canadian University of Nigeria, Abuja	—	Abuja, FCT	—	2023
122	Gerar University of Medical Science Imope Ijebu, Ogun State.	—	Imope Ijebu, Ogun State	—	2023
123	British Canadian University, Obufu Cross River State	—	Obufu, Cross River State	—	2023
124	Hensard University, Toru-Orua, Sagbama, Bayelsa State	—	Toru-Orua, Sagbama, Bayelsa State	—	2023
125	Amaj University, Kwali, Abuja	—	Kwali, FCT	—	2023
126	Phoenix University, Agwada, Nasarawa State	—	Agwada, Nasarawa State	—	2023
127	Wigwe University, Isiokpo Rivers State	—	Isiokpo, Rivers State	—	2023
128	Hillside University of Science and Technology, Okemisi, Ekiti State	—	Okemisi, Ekiti State	https://www.hust.edu.ng/	2023
129	University on the Niger, Umunya, Anambra state	—	Umunya, Anambra State	—	2023
130	Elrazi Medical University Yargaya University, Kano State	—	Kano, Kano State	—	2023
131	Venite University, Iloro-Ekiti, Ekiti State	—	Iloro-Ekiti, Ekiti State	—	2023
132	Shanahan University Onitsha, Anambra State	—	Onitsha, Anambra State	—	2023
133	The Duke Medical University, Calabar, Cross River State	—	Calabar, Cross River State	—	2023
134	Mercy Medical University, Iwo, Ogun State	—	Iwo, Osun State	—	2023
135	Cosmopolitan University Abuja	—	Abuja, FCT	—	2023
136	Miva Open University, Abuja FCT	—	Abuja, FCT	https://miva.university/	2023
137	Iconic Open University, Sokoto State.	—	Sokoto, Sokoto State	—	2023
138	West Midlands Open University, Ibadan, Oyo State	—	Ibadan, Oyo State	—	2023
139	Al-Muhibbah Open University, Abuja	—	Abuja, FCT	—	2023
140	El-Amin University, Minna, Niger State	—	Minna, Niger State	—	2023
141	College of Petroleum and Energy Studies, Kaduna State	—	Kaduna State	—	2023
142	Jewel University, Gombe state	—	Gombe, Gombe State	—	2023
143	Prime University, Kuje, FCT Abuja	—	Kuje, FCT	—	2023
144	Nigerian University of Technology and Management, Apapa, Lagos State	NUTM	Apapa, Lagos State	—	2019
145	Al-Bayan University, Ankpa, Kogi State	—	Ankpa, Kogi State	—	2023
146	Lighthouse University, Evbobanosa, Edo State	—	Evbobanosa, Edo State	—	2024
147	African University of Economics, FCT, Abuja	—	Abuja, FCT	—	2024
148	New City University, Ayetoro, Ogun State	—	Ayetoro, Ogun State	—	2025
149	University of Fortune, Igbotako, Ondo State	—	Igbotako, Ondo State	—	2025
150	Eranova University, Abuja	—	Abuja, FCT	https://eranova.edu.ng/	2025
151	Minaret University, Ikirun, Osun State	—	Ikirun, Osun State	—	2025
152	Abdulrasaq Abubakar Toyin University, Oke-Ogba, Ganmo, Ilorin, Kwara State	—	Oke-Ogba/Ganmo, Ilorin, Kwara State	—	2025
153	Southern Atlantic University, Uyo, Akwa Ibom State	—	Uyo, Akwa Ibom State	—	2025
154	Lens University, Ilemona, Kwara State	—	Ilemona, Kwara State	—	2025
155	Monarch University, Iyesi-Ota, Ogun State	—	Iyesi-Ota, Ogun State	—	2025
156	Tonine Iredia University of Communication, Benin City, Edo State	—	Benin City, Edo State	—	2025
157	Isaac Balami University of Aeronautics and Management, Lagos State	—	Lagos State	—	2025
158	Kevin Eze University, Mgbowo, Enugu State	—	Mgbowo, Enugu State	—	2025
159	Tazkiyah University, Kaduna, Kaduna State	—	Kaduna, Kaduna State	—	2025
160	Leadership University, Abuja, FCT	—	Abuja, FCT	—	2025
161	Jimoh Babalola University, Ilorin, Kwara State	—	Ilorin, Kwara State	—	2025
162	Bridget University Mbaise, Okirika-Nweke, Imo State	—	Mbaise/Okirika-Nweke, Imo State	—	2025
163	Greenland University, Jalingo, Taraba State	—	Jalingo, Taraba State	—	2025
164	JEFAP University, Suleja, Niger State	—	Suleja, Niger State	—	2025
165	Azione Verde University, Amaigbo, Imo State	—	Amaigbo, Imo State	—	2025
166	Unique Open University, Ojo, Lagos State	—	Ojo, Lagos State	—	2025
167	American Open University, Abeokuta, Ogun State	—	Abeokuta, Ogun State	—	2025
168	Millenium Crest University, Ikare Akoko, Ondo State	—	Ikare Akoko, Ondo State	—	2026
169	Abdulfattah Durojaiye University, Abeokuta Ogun State	—	Abeokuta, Ogun State	—	2026
170	Euston University, Abakaliki, Ebonyi State	—	Abakaliki, Ebonyi State	—	2026
171	Adeche Momoh University, Igarra, Edo State	—	Igarra, Edo State	—	2026
172	Sani Bello University, Kontagora Niger State	—	Kontagora, Niger State	—	2026
173	Godday Erewa University, Sapele, Delta State	—	Sapele, Delta State	—	2026
174	Owolabi University, Oke Ila Orangun	—	Oke Ila Orangun, Osun State	—	2026
175	Regnum Medical University, Anthony, Lagos State	—	Anthony, Lagos State	—	2026
176	City University Abuja	—	Abuja, FCT	—	2026
177	Transatlantic University of Medine and Health Sciences, Umuchukwu, Anambra State	—	Umuchukwu, Anambra State	—	2026
178	Maria Assumpta University Owerri, Imo State	—	Owerri, Imo State	—	2026
179	High Flyers University, Ikere-Ekiti, Ekiti State	—	Ikere-Ekiti, Ekiti State	—	2026
180	Ummah University of Nigeria, Abuja	—	Abuja, FCT	—	2026
181	Pearl University, Calabar, Cross river	—	Calabar, Cross River State	—	2026
182	Omega University Kaduna	—	Kaduna, Kaduna State	—	2026

How to Choose a Private University

Choosing the right private university can significantly impact your academic success and career prospects. Consider the following factors:

1. Accreditation and NUC Approval

Ensure the university is fully accredited by the NUC. Only NUC-approved institutions can award recognized degrees.

2. Location and Campus Environment

Evaluate the university’s location, safety, hostel facilities, and overall campus environment. Some students prefer urban campuses (e.g., Lagos, Abuja), while others thrive in serene, semi-rural settings.

3. Course Availability and Specialization

Check if the university offers your desired course and whether the department is well-equipped. Some private universities specialize in medicine, theology, or technology.

4. Tuition Fees and Scholarships

Private universities charge higher fees, but many offer scholarships, bursaries, or installment payment plans. Compare costs and financial aid options.

5. Infrastructure and Facilities

Look for modern libraries, laboratories, ICT centers, sports facilities, and reliable power/internet supply.

6. Reputation and Alumni Network

Research graduate employability, industry partnerships, and alumni success stories. Universities with strong networks often provide better internship and job opportunities.

7. Religious or Ethical Orientation

Many private universities are faith-based (Christian or Islamic). Consider whether the institution’s values align with your personal beliefs.

Admission Requirements for Private Universities in Nigeria

While specific requirements vary by institution and programme, most private universities in Nigeria share common admission criteria:

1. JAMB UTME Score

• Minimum score: 150–180 (varies by university and course).
• Competitive programmes (Medicine, Law, Engineering) may require 200+.

2. O’Level Results (WAEC, NECO, or NABTEB)

• At least 5 credits in relevant subjects, including English and Mathematics.
• Credits must be obtained in no more than two sittings for most universities.

3. Post-UTME Screening

Most private universities conduct their own Post-UTME exams or screening exercises. Some accept direct applications without Post-UTME.

4. Direct Entry (DE)

For ND, NCE, or IJMB holders, many universities accept Direct Entry into 200-level programmes.

5. Application Documents

Typically required:

• JAMB result slip
• O’Level certificates
• Birth certificate or affidavit
• Passport photographs
• Application fee receipt
• LGA state of origin letter (for some institutions)

6. Special Requirements

• Medicine/Health Sciences: Additional science subjects and higher cut-off marks.
• Law: Strong English and Literature scores.
• Engineering: Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics credits.

Always check the official university website for programme-specific requirements.atibauniversity.edu+2

Pros and Cons of Private Universities in Nigeria

Conclusion

Private universities in Nigeria offer quality education, stable academic calendars, and diverse programme options, making them an attractive choice for students seeking alternatives to public institutions. With 182 approved universities across the country, prospective students have more options than ever before.

By understanding admission requirements, weighing the pros and cons, and choosing an accredited institution, you can make an informed decision that aligns with your academic and career goals.

Note: Always verify details on the official university website before applying