Top 15 best private universities in Nigeria 2025/2026 and their fees
There are numerous universities in Nigeria's education sector today. These higher education institutions are divided into government-owned institutions and private ones owned by individuals, corporate bodies, and religious institutions. Which are the best private universities in Nigeria today, and how much do they charge in tuition fees?
Source: Original
TABLE OF CONTENTS
- Key takeaways
- Best private universities in Nigeria
- 15. Lead City University: ₦300,00 - ₦5,500,000
- 14. African University of Science and Technology: ₦750,000 – ₦1,800,000
- 13. Pan-Atlantic University: ₦2,312,500 – ₦2,835,000
- 12. Baze University: ₦1,000,000 – ₦3,025,000
- 11. Veritas University: ₦690,000 – ₦2,000,000
- 10. Skyline University Nigeria: ₦675,000 - N2,700,000
- 9. Landmark University: ₦532,000 – ₦675,000
- 8. American University of Nigeria: ₦200,000 - ₦2,442,000
- 7. Redeemer's University: ₦600,000 - ₦1,450,000
- 6. Bowen University: ₦84,000 - ₦1,185,000
- 5. Nile University of Nigeria: ₦1,200,000 - ₦5,950,000
- 4. Babcock University: ₦300,000 – ₦1,500,000
- 3. Godfrey Okoye University: ₦300,000 - ₦1,900,000
- 2. Afe Babalola University: ₦800,000 – ₦2,500,000
- 1. Covenant University: ₦937,500 – ₦1,002,500
- Which private university has the highest fees in Nigeria?
- What is the cheapest private university in Nigeria to study medicine and surgery?
- Which private university has the lowest fees in Nigeria?
- What was the first private university in Nigeria?
- What is the number 1 private university in Nigeria?
- How many private universities are there in Nigeria?
- Where is Covenant University located?
- Which is the best university in Nigeria?
- What are the best private universities in Abuja?
- What are the best private universities in Lagos?
- What are the top 10 best universities in Nigeria?
- What are the top 20 best universities in Nigeria?
- What are the top 10 best private universities in Nigeria?
- What are the best universities in Nigeria for medicine and surgery?
- What is the best University in Africa?
- Which is the best federal university in Nigeria?
- Which Nigerian universities are recognized abroad?
- Which private university is newly approved in Nigeria?
Key takeaways
- There are currently more than 100 private universities in Nigeria. These institutions vary in student enrolment, course portfolio, governance structures, fees, and numerous other attributes.
- Igbinedion University became the first licensed Private University in Nigeria when it welcomed its first batch of students on October 15, 1999.
- Landmark University is the cheapest Nigerian private university. Its program fees range from ₦532,000 - ₦675,000.
Best private universities in Nigeria
We used information from Times Higher Education and Scholarship Region to compile this list. However, the information contained on this list is not conclusive, as the best private university in Nigeria depends on various factors such as affordability and accessibility. Therefore, we urge you to do further research.
| Rank | University | Fees range |
| 1 | Covenant University | ₦937,500 – ₦1,002,500 |
| 2 | Afe Babalola University | ₦800,000 – ₦2,500,000 |
| 3 | Godfrey Okoye University | ₦300,000 - ₦1,900,000 |
| 4 | Babcock University | ₦300,000 – ₦1,500,000 |
| 5 | Nile University of Nigeria | ₦1,200,000 - ₦5,950,000 |
| 6 | Bowen University | ₦84,000 - ₦1,185,000 |
| 7 | Redeemer's University | ₦600,000 - ₦1,450,000 |
| 8 | American University of Nigeria | ₦200,000 - ₦2,442,000 |
| 9 | Landmark University | ₦532,000 – ₦675,000 |
| 10 | Skyline University Nigeria | ₦675,000 - N2,700,000 |
| 11 | Veritas University | ₦690,000 – ₦2,000,000 |
| 12 | Baze University | ₦1,000,000 – ₦3,025,000 |
| 13 | Pan-Atlantic University | ₦2,312,500 – ₦2,835,000 |
| 14 | African University of Science and Technology | ₦750,000 – ₦1,800,000 |
| 15 | Lead City University | ₦5,500,000 |
Here is a look at the list of private universities in Nigeria and their average fee range.
15. Lead City University: ₦300,00 - ₦5,500,000
Source: Facebook
- Founded: 2005
- Address: Ibadan, Oyo State, Nigeria
- Phone numbers: +234 908 899 9145 | +234 908 899 9149
- Emails: registrat@lcu.edu.ng | leadcity@lcu.edu.ng
- Website: www.lcu.edu.ng
Lead City University is located in Ibadan, Oyo State, Nigeria. It was established in 2005 and is owned by Eduserve Consult, a private consulting firm based in Nigeria.
The university offers a variety of undergraduate and postgraduate programs in fields such as science, technology, business, social sciences, and the humanities. Lead City University is one of the cheap private universities in Nigeria that you can opt for.
14. African University of Science and Technology: ₦750,000 – ₦1,800,000
- Founded: 2007
- Address: Umaru Musa Yar'Adua Road, Galadima, Nigeria
- Phone numbers: +234907343073
- Emails: admissions@aust.edu.ng
- Website: www.aust.edu.ng
The African University of Science and Technology (AUST) is a private university created as part of the system developed by the Nelson Mandela Institution (NMI).
The institution's creation was in response to a request from several African Heads of State who sought to make the World Bank and African Union work together to create effective Pan-African centres of excellence.
13. Pan-Atlantic University: ₦2,312,500 – ₦2,835,000
- Founded: 2002
- Address: Lekki - Epe Expressway, Lagos, Nigeria
- Phone numbers: +234 708 864 1465
- Emails: admissions@pau.edu.ng
- Website: pau.edu.ng
The Pan-Atlantic University was founded in 1991. At the time, it was known as the Lagos Business School. In 2002, the institution received its charter following its federal approval to operate as a private higher education institution. The institution's Ajah Campus was completed in 2003, and its Ibeju-Lekki campus a few years later.
12. Baze University: ₦1,000,000 – ₦3,025,000
- Founded: 2011
- Address: Jabi Airport Road Bypass, Abuja, Nigeria
- Phone numbers: 234 813 376 9658
- Emails: inquiries@bazeuniversity.edu.ng
- Website: bazeuniversity.edu.ng
The Baze University is a private tertiary institution in Abuja, Nigeria. It was founded in 2011 and offers a basic standard university education. The university received its provisional license from the NUC on March 7, 2011. Since then, it has grown into one of the most sought-after institutions in Nigeria.
11. Veritas University: ₦690,000 – ₦2,000,000
- Founded: 2002
- Address: Bwari Area Council, FCT-Abuja, Abuja, Nigeria
- Phone numbers: 08039398830 | 08069536843
- Emails: info@veritas.edu.ng
- Website: veritas.edu.ng
Veritas University is a private institution of higher learning located in Abuja. It was founded in March 2002 by the Catholic Church in Nigeria. Veritas University then received its provisional operation license in 2007 and commenced admission of students in October 2008.
10. Skyline University Nigeria: ₦675,000 - N2,700,000
- Founded: 2018
- Address: Zaria Rd, Trade Fair Area, Kano, Nigeria
- Phone numbers: +234 818 111 1113 | +234 813 989 1220
- Website: www.sun.edu.ng
Skyline University Nigeria is a privately owned institution in Kano. The university was established in 2018, making it the first private university in Kano State. With degree courses starting at ₦675,000 per year, Skyline University Nigeria is among the most affordable universities in Nigeria.
9. Landmark University: ₦532,000 – ₦675,000
- Founded: 2011
- Address: Omu-Aran, Kwara, Nigeria
- Phone numbers: +234 806 739 4515 | +234 7038205649
- Emails: admissions@lmu.edu.ng | support@lmu.edu.ng | feedback@lmu.edu.ng
- Website: lmu.edu.ng
Landmark University is a private Christian university established, owned, and operated by the Living Faith Church Worldwide. The institution is located in Omu-Aran, Kwara State, Nigeria.
8. American University of Nigeria: ₦200,000 - ₦2,442,000
- Founded: 2003
- Address: Lamido Zubairu Way, Yola Township Bypass, Adamawa State, Nigeria
- Phone numbers: +234 805 200 2962
- Emails: admissions@aun.edu.ng
- Website: aun.edu.ng
The American University of Nigeria (AUN) is a private university located in Yola, the capital of Adamawa, Nigeria. The institution offers American-style undergraduate, graduate, and professional education. The university currently has over 1,500 students and is credited with being Africa's first development-oriented university.
7. Redeemer's University: ₦600,000 - ₦1,450,000
- Founded: 2005
- Address: Akoda, Ede Rd, Osun, Nigeria
- Phone numbers: +234 700 700 8000
- Website: run.edu.ng
Redeemer's University was established in 2005 by the Redeemed Christian Church of God. The institution is located in Ogun State in southwestern Nigeria. It offers degree programs in engineering, sciences, arts, management and social sciences.
6. Bowen University: ₦84,000 - ₦1,185,000
- Founded: 2001
- Address: Iwo, Osun State, Nigeria
- Phone numbers: 09030644224
- Emails: info@bowen.edu.ng
- Website: bowen.edu.ng
Bowen University is a Nigerian private Baptist university owned by the Nigerian Baptist Convention. Bowen University is located in Iwo, Osun State. Its main campus is housed in an expansive 1,300-acre campus of the Baptist College, one of the most popular teacher training institutions in Nigeria.
5. Nile University of Nigeria: ₦1,200,000 - ₦5,950,000
Source: Facebook
- Founded: 2009
- Address: Cadastral Zone, Airport Road, Jabi, Abuja, Nigeria
- Phone numbers: +234 916 985 3402
- Emails: info@nileuniversity.edu.ng
- Website: nileuniversity.edu.ng
The Nile University of Nigeria is a private multidisciplinary university founded in 2009. It is located in Abuja and is a member of the Honoris United Universities Network.
The institution has six faculties and offers over 80 undergraduate and graduate programs. It is one of the best private universities in Nigeria that offers medicine and surgery.
4. Babcock University: ₦300,000 – ₦1,500,000
- Founded: 1959
- Address: Ilishan-Remo, Ogun state, Nigeria
- Phone numbers: +234 805 680 0999 | +234 703 204 9418
- Emails: info@babcock.edu.ng | registrar@babcock.edu.ng | buhrec@babcock.edu.ng
- Website: www.babcock.edu.ng
Babcock University is a private Christian university owned and operated by the Seventh-day Adventist Church in Nigeria. The university is located at Ilishan-Remo, between Ibadan and Lagos.
While it's among the newest private universities in Nigeria, Babcock University is also among the best, an attribute that explains its high demand among prospective university students.
3. Godfrey Okoye University: ₦300,000 - ₦1,900,000
- Founded: 2009
- Address: Jideofor St, Thinkers Corner, Enugu, Nigeria
- Phone numbers: +234 913 427 3215
- Emails: info@guoni.edu.ng
- Website: guoni.edu.ng
Godfrey Okoye University is a private Catholic university located in Enugu, Nigeria. It was established in 2009 and is named after Reverend Father Professor Christian Anieke Godfrey Okoye.
He was a prominent Catholic priest and educator in Nigeria. Godfrey Okoye University is affiliated with the Catholic Church and is committed to providing quality education while upholding Catholic values and principles.
2. Afe Babalola University: ₦800,000 – ₦2,500,000
- Founded: 2009
- Address: Aye, Ekiti, Nigeria
- Phone numbers: +234 902 585 8297
- Emails: info@abuad.edu.ng
- Website: www.abuad.edu.ng
Afe Babalola University, commonly known as ABUAD, is a private university located in Ado-Ekiti. It was founded in 2009 by the renowned Nigerian lawyer and philanthropist Afe Babalola. Afe Babalola University has numerous academic programs grouped under its six colleges. Its school of engineering is quite famous and is reputed to be one of the biggest in Africa.
1. Covenant University: ₦937,500 – ₦1,002,500
Source: Facebook
- Founded: 2002
- Address: Canaan Land, Ota, Ogun State, Nigeria
- Phone number: +234 201 227 3500
- Email: info@covenantuniversity.edu.ng
- Website: covenantuniversity.edu.ng
Covenant University (CU) is a Nigerian private university in Ota, Ogun State. The institution was founded by David Oyedepo and opened its doors on October 21, 2002. Since then, Covenant University has risen into one of the good private universities in Nigeria.
It is the first Nigerian university to be ranked in the 401-500 category of world universities by Times Higher Education.
Which private university has the highest fees in Nigeria?
Some notable Nigerian insapest one can pay per session is ₦2,600,000. Postgraduates' total program fee ranges from ₦1,200,000 to ₦4,500,000.
What is the cheapest private university in Nigeria to study medicine and surgery?
Afe Babalola University stands out as one of Nigeria's most affordable private universities, providing a comprehensive program in medicine and surgery. The institution boasts a well-equipped faculty with ample resources, ensuring medical students can access a rich pool of expertise to enhance their learning experience.
Which private university has the lowest fees in Nigeria?
Landmark University is the cheapest Nigerian private university. Its program fees range from ₦532,000 - ₦675,000.
What was the first private university in Nigeria?
Igbinedion University became the first licensed Private University in Nigeria when it welcomed its first batch of students on October 15, 1999. The University is located in Okada, Edo State.
What is the number 1 private university in Nigeria?
Covenant University is currently the best private institution of higher education in Nigeria. It is the third-best university in the country according to Times Higher Education World University Rankings.
How many private universities are there in Nigeria?
There are currently 148 private universities in the country.
Where is Covenant University located?
The institution is located at KM 10 Idiroko Rd, 112104, Ota, Nigeria.
Which is the best university in Nigeria?
The University of Ibadan is the country's top university, according to the latest rankings. The university was founded in 1948 as University College Ibadan, one of many colleges within the University of London. It is the oldest degree-awarding institution in the country.
What are the best private universities in Abuja?
Some of the best private universities in Abuja, Nigeria include:
- Baze University
- Nile University of Nigeria
- Veritas University
- Philomath University
What are the best private universities in Lagos?
Here are some of the best private universities in Lagos, Nigeria:
- Covenant University
- Pan-Atlantic University
- Maranatha University
- Babcock University
- Redeemers University
- Crescent University
- Landmark University
- Afe Babalola University
What are the top 10 best universities in Nigeria?
The top 10 best universities in Nigeria according to the Times Higher Education rankings are:
- Covenant University
- Ahmadu Bello University
- Landmark University
- University of Ibadan
- University of Lagos
- Federal University of Technology Akure
- Federal University of Technology, Minna
- Bayero University
- University of Benin
- University of Ilorin
What are the top 20 best universities in Nigeria?
The top 20 best universities in Nigeria according to the Times Higher Education rankings are:
- Covenant University
- Ahmadu Bello University
- Landmark University
- University of Ibadan
- University of Lagos
- Federal University of Technology Akure
- Federal University of Technology, Minna
- Bayero University
- University of Benin
- University of Ilorin
- University of Nigeria Nsuka
- Ekiti State University
- Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta
- Federal University of Technology, Owerri
- Federal University Oye-Ekiti
- Ladoke Akintola University of Technology
- Lagos State University
- Nnamdi Azikiwe University
- Obafemi Awolowo University
- University of Port Harcourt
What are the top 10 best private universities in Nigeria?
Below is a list of the best private universities in Nigeria in 2025:
- Covenant University
- Afe Babalola University
- Godfrey Okoye University
- Babcock University
- Nile University of Nigeria
- Bowen University
- Redeemer's University
- American University of Nigeria
- Landmark University
- Skyline University Nigeria
What are the best universities in Nigeria for medicine and surgery?
Some notable Nigerian institutions that have excelled in medicine and surgery include:
- University of Ibadan
- University of Lagos
- Ahmadu Bello University
- Obafemi Awolowo University
- University of Ilorin
- University of Benin
What is the best University in Africa?
The University of Cape Town (UCT) has consistently been ranked as the best university in Africa.
Which is the best federal university in Nigeria?
Ahmadu Bello University has consistently ranked behing Covenant University, as the second best university in Nigeria, and hence the best federal university.
Which Nigerian universities are recognized abroad?
Some globally recognized Nigerian Universities include:
- University of Lagos
- Covenant University
- University of Ibadan
- Afe Babalola University (ABUAD)
- University of Port Harcourt
Which private university is newly approved in Nigeria?
In March 2025, the government of Nigeria approved the provisional licenses of 11 private universities, including:
- New City University
- University of Fortune
- Eranova University
- Minaret University
The best private universities in Nigeria continue to provide quality education and opportunities for students to excel in various fields of study. While the tuition fees may vary across these universities, it is essential to consider not only the fees but also the overall academic and extracurricular opportunities offered by the university when deciding on higher education.
Source: UGC
Legit.ng recently published an article about the courses available at the Nnamdi Azikiwe University (UNIZIK). The university was established in 1991 when the old Anambra State was split into Anambra and Enugu States. Today, it is one of the best universities in Nigeria.
Like many other institutions of higher education in Nigeria, UNIZIK offers numerous diploma, degree, and graduate programs.
Source: Legit.ng
Jackline Wangare (Lifestyle writer) Jackline Simwa is a content writer at Legit.ng, where she has worked since mid-2021. She tackles diverse topics, including finance, entertainment, sports, and lifestyle. Previously, she worked at The Campanile by Kenyatta University. She has more than five years in writing. Jackline graduated with a Bachelor’s degree in Economics (2019) and a Diploma in Marketing (2015) from Kenyatta University. In 2023, Jackline finished the AFP course on Digital Investigation Techniques and Google News Initiative course in 2024. Email: simwajackie2022@gmail.com.
Adrianna Simwa (Lifestyle writer) Adrianna Simwa is a content writer at Legit.ng where she has worked since mid-2022. She has written for many periodicals on a variety of subjects, including news, celebrities, and lifestyle, for more than three years. She has worked for The Hoth, The Standard Group and Triple P Media. Adrianna graduated from Nairobi University with a Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) in 2020. In 2023, Simwa finished the AFP course on Digital Investigation Techniques. You can reach her through her email: adriannasimwa@gmail.com
