25 cheapest private universities in Nigeria to apply for in 2024

Attending the cheapest private university in Nigeria does not mean you will get low-quality education compared to expensive schools. Cheap private universities in Nigeria only lower the fees to accommodate students from all backgrounds. This article lists 25 affordable private universities that one can apply to in Nigeria. Legit.ng conducted an interview with the registrar of one of these institutions to provide insightful information regarding the affordability of education at their university. This includes discussions on tuition fees, available financial aid opportunities, and initiatives designed to enhance educational accessibility for students.

Do not give up on advancing your education even if you lack money. You can apply to multiple cheap universities in Nigeria and attain the same quality education you would have received at an expensive institution. Education is among the basic needs since most well-paying professions require multiple degrees and certifications. Moreover, the job market has become very competitive since job seekers constantly advance their knowledge and experience.

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What is the cheapest private university in Nigeria?

Nigeria private universities have many programs for students who scored below the minimum in the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Exam. On the other hand, state or federal universities mostly admit students with a minimum score of 200. In addition, many scholars choose private universities because admission is easier than state or federal universities. Below is a list of the cheapest private universities in Nigeria you can consider applying to:

1. Ajayi Crowther University (ACU) – N162,000 to N782,000

• Founded: 2005
• Address: Oke-Ebo, Atiba LGA, Oyo State, Nigeria
• Phone number: +234 816 270 7728
• Email: registrar@acu.edu.ng
• Website: www.acu.edu.ng

Ajayi Crowther University raises highly qualified, talented, and disciplined intellectuals who can bring positive change and societal transformation. It is among the most affordable private universities in Nigeria, and many also love Ajayi Crowther University because it supports Christian ethics.

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During an interview with Dr. Jadesola Tai Babatola, the Registrar at Ajayi Crowther University (ACU), told Legit.ng that the basic idea of spreading cost at ACU is based on student enrollment and the expenses associated with hosting each academic program.

Dr. Babatola emphasized the University's commitment to attracting students from diverse socioeconomic backgrounds and ensuring affordability for all prospective students. He outlined several key considerations in determining fees, including:

• Operational and maintenance costs;
• Rental obligations;
• Staffing expenditures, including pension and pay-as-you-earn (PAYE) remittances;
• Provision of essential utilities and academic resources for teaching and research;
• Procurement of equipment; and
• Accreditation of courses.

The fees are spread over the cost implication without any intent to profit or raise extra charges outside the actual cost of running the Institution since the University has IGR and other fundraising sources such as endowment, church contributions, and donations from its sponsors.

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Ensuring quality education at ACU through affordable fees

Dr. Babatola mentioned that ACU maintains a delicate balance between quality education and affordable fees, viewing the latter as essential for expanding student enrollment and optimizing the University's resource utilization. He explained that:

Access to private university education helps bridge the gaps and the lacuna in service delivery in Nigeria's public university system. Undoubtedly, ACU is poised to ensure a direct staff-student learning process that allows learners to be well taught and open to necessary guidance and mentoring not available in public Institutions.

Staff is to focus on the student's well-being, mental capacities, and social conduct to achieve the Institution's mandate of raising godly intellectuals. Similarly, the University is open to all students of faith and does not discriminate against any entrant, though it is compulsory or mandatory for all staff and students to comply with the University regulations.

Therefore, The need to open academic programs for robust engagement, continuous interaction, and collaborative effort suffice. For all hands to be on deck, the scale of preference is to satisfy the student's needs and provide required services at an affordable rate.

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ACU will do its best to ensure value for money at an affordable cost so as not to be priced out of the higher education market or perform below expectations in service delivery and provision of optimal services for staff, students, and other stakeholders in need of the University services.

The Registrar highlighted several factors contributing to ACU's quality education, including:

• Creating a conducive learning environment.
• Implementing a comprehensive curriculum aligned with NUC academic standards.
• Ensuring essential infrastructure and support services.
• Emphasizing community engagement with a commitment to total quality management.
• Promoting knowledge advancement through research, practical teaching methods, skill development, and fostering balanced social interactions.

Financial Support and Scholarships at ACU

Dr. Babatola explained that scholarship opportunities and financial aid for students primarily come from two corporate bodies: the Josephus Foundation and the Folorunsho-Modupe Alakija Foundation.

According to him, others have come through individual patrons of the University such as "Chief Dr. Wole Olanipekun SAN, CFR, who supports postgraduate students, especially Anglican clergy pursuing degree programs; Dr. Mrs. F. Ajimobi (former Oyo State 1st Lady), who has sponsored undergraduates and students with disabilities; and Prof. Timothy Abiodun Adebayo (the current Vice-Chancellor), who sponsors bright, needy students pursuing various academic programs at the University".

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Courses Offered and Tuition Fees

The information provided by ACU outlines the courses available at the University along with the corresponding tuition fees for the 2023/2024 academic year. These fees (as shown below) are divided into three installments:

• First Tranche: Paid in September before the resumption.
• Second Tranche: Paid in the first week of January (upon resumption).
• Third Tranche: Paid at the beginning of the second semester.

These installment fees can vary, with law students paying as high as ₦863,500, while students studying peace and conflict resolution can pay as low as ₦96,750.

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2. Obong University – N170,000

• Founded: 1997
• Address: Obong Ntak, Akwa Ibom, Nigeria
• Phone numbers: +234 904 219 3686 | +234 904 220 4010
• Emails: info@obonguniversity.edu.ng | registrar@obonguniversity.edu.ng
• Website: www.obonguniversity.org

Obong University upholds Christian values ​​and high academic standards. The university is affiliated with Churches of Christ and sponsored by Rivergate Church of Christ from Tennessee, USA. Obong University has two campuses; the main campus is in Etim Ekpo LGA, Akwa Ibom State, while the other is in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State.

3. Oduduwa University, Ipetumodu (OUI) – N195,000

• Founded: 2009
• Address: Ipetumodu, Ile-Ife, Osun state, Nigeria
• Phone numbers: +234 805 656 5656 | +234 805 855 5558
• Email: info@oduduwauniversity.edu.ng
• Website: www.oduduwauniversity.edu.ng

Oduduwa University sits on 100 hectares piece of land in Osun state. The school collaborates with various universities in Africa and abroad to give students the best education. For instance, Oduduwa University has affiliations with the Institute of Aviation Studies, Unique Citizen (University) College in Ghana, and Our Saviour University America.

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4. Renaissance University (RNU) – N200,000 to N700,000

• Founded: 2005
• Address: Ugbawka, Nkanu East LGA, Enugu State, Nigeria
• Phone numbers: +234 805 156 9965 | +234 805 801 5378 | +234 803 775 1836
• Email: registrar@rnu.edu.ng
• Website: www.rnu.edu.ng

Renaissance University was established in 2005, but studies took off in September 2007. Its vision is to be a center of excellence for teaching, research, and community service and to empower individuals to strive for the utmost development of humanity. Above this, Renaissance University responds appropriately to the needs of its students.

5. Wellspring University – N213,000

• Founded: 2009
• Address: Benin City, Edo State, Nigeria
• Phone numbers: +234 704 255 0535 | +234 806 255 7803
• Emails: info@wellspringuniversity.edu.ng | registrar@wellspringuniversity.edu.ng
• Website: wellspringuniversity.edu.ng

Wellspring University's school fees range from N100,000 to N250,000 per session, but most students pay N213,000 on average. The school is committed to providing quality learning that will stimulate students' minds and make them the best leaders to bring change in Africa. On top of that, students at Wellspring University admit that it might be the cheapest private university in Edo State.

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6. Caritas University – N248,000

• Founded: 2004
• Address: Amorji-Nike, Enugu State, Nigeria
• Phone number: +234 806 358 9115
• Emails: info@caritasuni.edu.ng | enquiries@caritasuni.edu.ng
• Website: www.caritasuni.edu.ng

Caritas University is most likely the cheapest private university in Enugu State. Emmanuel Paul Mattew Edeh established this private Catholic university in 2004. Additionally, Caritas University's school fees range from N220,000 to N390,000 per session.

7. Tansian University – N258,000 to N300,000

• Founded: 2009
• Address: Umunya, Oyi LGA, Anambra State, Nigeria
• Phone number: +234 803 380 2177
• Email: registrar@tansianuniversity.edu.ng
• Website: www.tansianuniversity.edu.ng

Tansian University is among the best private Christian universities in Nigeria. It was established at Oba, Idemili South LGA, a temporary site, then moved to a permanent place in Umunya. Also, Tansian University school fees range from N200,000 - N300,000 per session.

8. Claretian University of Nigerian (CUN) – N300,000

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• Founded: 2021
• Address: Umualum, Nekede, Imo State, Nigeria
• Phone number: +234 901 6189 060
• Email: info@claretianuniversity.edu.ng
• Website: claretianuniversity.edu.ng

The Claretian Missionaries of the Catholic Church established the Claretian University of Nigeria in February 2021. The school is one of the cheapest private universities in Imo State. CUN school fees range from N200,000 to N300,000 per session.

9. Paul University, Awka – N300,000

• Founded: 2009
• Address: Awka, Anambra State, Nigeria
• Phone numbers: +234 805 607 9976 | +234 803 524 6492 | +234 813 449 3683
• Emails: info@pauluniversity.edu.ng | enquiries@pauluniversity.edu.ng
• Website: www.pauluniversity.edu.ng

Paul University is affiliated with the Church of Nigeria. The school has a very conducive environment for learning and a team of committed staff to help scholars excel. In addition, Paul University's top priority is to offer talented youth access to university education and involve them in making innovations.

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10. Rhema University – N300,000

• Founded: 2009
• Address: Aba, Abia State, Nigeria
• Phone number: +234 807 684 6648
• Email: info@rhemauniversity.edu.ng
• Website: www.rhemauniversity.com

Rhema University is among the few affordable private universities in Abia state. The school has affiliations with the Living Word Ministries. Moreover, students rarely regret choosing Rhema University because of its diverse undergraduate programs that nurture and equip scholars to prosper globally.

11. Trinity University – N300,000 to N550,000

• Founded: 1990s
• Address: Yaba, Lagos State, Nigeria
• Phone number: +234 704 634 9760 | +234 703 216 7003
• Email: info@trinityuniversity.edu.ng
• Website: www.trinityuniversity.edu.ng

Trinity University is among the leading private universities in Nigeria. The school is on the outskirts of Lagos State. On top of that, Trinity University was established in Ikeja Lagos early 1990s as a college. The school later moved to a permanent site in Ofada in Ogun State in 1998 and got a license to operate as a private university in 2019.

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12. Atiba University – N300,000 to N600,000

• Founded: 2017
• Address: Oyo Township, Oyo State, Nigeria
• Phone number: +234 810 349 4152
• Email: info@atibauniversity.edu.ng
• Website: www.atibauniversity.edu.ng

Academic programs and activities at Atiba University Oyo promote a progressive culture of excellence in teaching, learning, research, and innovation. The school is affordable, and a student can apply for a scholarship of up to N158,000 per academic year.

13. Babcock University – N340,000

• 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 Seventh-day Adventist higher learning institution and, presumably, the cheapest private university in Ogun State. In addition, Babcock University is among the oldest private universities in the country.

14. Fountain University – N341,000

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• Founded: 2007
• Address: Oke-Osun, Osogbo, Osun State, Nigeria
• Phone numbers: +234 816 035 0557 | +234 803 706 3960
• Email: enquiries@fuo.edu.ng
• Website: fuo.edu.ng

Fountain University produces competent and resourceful graduates. The school's library boosts student research and innovations they create to benefit society. What's more, Fountain University is an Islamic school offering very affordable education to students from middle and low-income backgrounds.

15. Al-Hikmah University – N350,000

• Founded: 2005
• Address: Ilorin, Kwara State, Nigeria
• Phone numbers: +234 703 275 4666 | +234 805 544 6634
• Emails: info@alhikmah.edu.ng | registrar@alhikmah.edu.ng
• Website: alhikmahuniversity.edu.ng

World Assembly of Muslim Youths (WAMY) in Jeddah and the Abdur-Raheem Oladimeji Islamic Foundation (AROIF) in Nigeria established Al-Hikmah University in 2005. Also, this Islamic university charges between N300,000 to N600,000 per session.

16. Adeleke University – N350,000

• Founded: 2011
• Address: Ede, Osun State, Nigeria
• Phone numbers: +234 806 820 2021 | +234 806 001 9561 | +234 906702 3394 | +234 096 337 0367
• Emails: admissions@adelekeuniversity.edu.ng | registrar@adelekeuniversity.edu.ng
• Website: adelekeuniversity.edu.ng

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Adeleke University is not only affordable but also one of the best universities in Nigeria. The school has a diverse academic plan that attracts students worldwide. Moreover, Adeleke University is the best place for students interested in an excellent college education.

17. Novena University – N400,000

• Founded: 2005
• Address: Ogume, Delta State, Nigeria
• Phone numbers: +234 803 330 2376 | +234 803 716 7418
• Email: info@novenauniversity.edu.ng
• Website: novenauniversity.edu.ng

Novena University was the first private university to be established in Delta State. The serene and calm environment at Novena University makes learning fun, and the school also gives unparalleled opportunities for students to achieve their dreams.

18. ECWA Bingham University – N400,000

• Founded: 2005
• Address: New Karu, Nasarawa State, Nigeria
• Phone numbers: +234 706 861 5119 | +234 706 509 2268 | +234 706 448 3649
• Email: registrar@binghamuni.edu.ng
• Website: binghamuni.edu.ng

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ECWA's plans to establish Bingham University in Nasarawa State began in 2003. The Nigerian University Commission gave the school a charter in 2005, and lectures commenced in 2006. For those planning to further their studies, ECWA Bingham University is among the best schools to attend.

19. Joseph Ayo Babalola University (JABU) – N436,000

• Founded: 2004
• Address: Ipo Arakeji and Ikeji Arakeji, Osun State, Nigeria
• Phone number: +234 814 801 9292
• Email: info@jabu.edu.ng
• Website: jabu.edu.ng

Joseph Ayo Babalola University (JABU) is the best entrepreneurial university in Nigeria. The university has a campus in Ipo Arakeji and Ikeji Arakeji in Osun State. Joseph Ayo Babalola University also embraces all scholars regardless of their affiliations and background.

20. Newgate University Minna (NUM) – N450,000

• Address: Minna, Niger State, Nigeria
• Phone number: +234 817 881 2480
• Email: admin@newgateuniversityminna.edu.ng
• Website: newgateuniversityminna.edu.ng

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This Islamic university delivers high-quality learning experiences in the classroom, online, or within the community. Also, the Newgate University Minna students graduate on time, and the school prepares them to be well-rounded, responsible citizens who can successfully influence positive changes in society.

21. Crawford University – N450,000

• Founded: 2005
• Address: Lusada, Igbesa, Ogun State, Nigeria
• Phone numbers: +234 806 529 6600 | +234 802 730 2089 | +234 802 300 3436
• Email: info@crawforduniversity.edu.ng
• Website: crawforduniversity.edu.ng

Rev. Paul Akazue established Crawford University in 2005. Many acknowledge this is the cheapest private university in Ogun State that associates with the Apostolic Faith Mission church. Furthermore, Crawford University upholds Godliness, intellectualism, integrity, community service, and entrepreneurship.

22. Covenant University (CU) – N452,000

• Founded: 2002
• Address: Canaan Land, Ota, Ogun State, Nigeria
• Phone number: +234 903 355 0046
• Fax number: +234 903 355 0049
• Email: info@covenantuniversity.edu.ng
• Website: covenantuniversity.edu.ng

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Covenant University is affiliated with Living Faith Church Worldwide. The school has four colleges, 23 departments, and over 36 areas of study. On top of that, Covenant University offers international scholarships, fellowships, or grants to both local and international students.

23. Coal City University (CCU) – N467,000

• Founded: 2016
• Address: Emene Enugu State, Nigeria
• Phone number: +234 811 5757 998
• Fax number: +234 811 575 7998
• Email: info@ccu.edu.ng
• Website: ccu.edu.ng

Coal City University is a non-profit co-educational university in Igboland. Its world-class education has earned the school an excellent reputation locally and internationally. Additionally, CCU school fees are affordable, and students could benefit from study-abroad programs in Australia, Germany, Canada, Sweden, Switzerland, the UK, the USA, etc. Hence, more students in Nigeria have been applying to Coal City University in recent years.

24. Lead City University (LCU) – N550,000

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• Founded: 2005
• Address: Ibadan, Oyo State, Nigeria
• Phone numbers: +234 908 899 9145 | +234 908 899 9149
• Emails: admissions@lcu.edu.ng | pgschool@lcu.edu.ng
• Website: www.lcu.edu.ng

The physical and academic development of Lead City University is impressive. In addition, the school contributes to developing tertiary education in Nigeria by using innovative teaching techniques. Besides, this is one of the schools you can apply to when seeking the cheapest private university in Lagos.

25. Turkish Nile University - N500,000 to 1 million

• Founded: 2009
• Address: Jabi Airport Bypass, Abuja State, Nigeria
• Phone numbers: +234 806 735 0919 | +234 805 489 2616 | +234 916 985 3402
• Email: info@nileuniversity.edu.ng
• Website: www.nileuniversity.edu.ng

Turkish Nile University has branches in over ten countries in Africa. The school was established in Nigeria in 2009. Every faculty in Turkish Nile University has reputable academics dedicated to driving innovation in research and learning. Therefore, consider this school if you are looking for the cheapest private university in Abuja‌.

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Which is the cheapest Nigerian private university?

Below are the 25 cheapest Nigeria private universities that enroll local and international students, have exchange study programs abroad, and can also give you scholarships if you meet the qualifications:

• Ajayi Crowther University (ACU)
• Obong University
• Oduduwa University, Ipetumodu (OUI)
• Renaissance University (RNU)
• Wellspring University
• Caritas University
• Tansian University
• Claretian University of Nigerian (CUN)
• Paul University, Awka
• Rhema University
• Trinity University
• Atiba University
• Babcock University
• Fountain University
• Al-Hikmah University
• Adeleke University
• Novena University
• ECWA Bingham University
• Joseph Ayo Babalola University (JABU)
• Newgate University Minna (NUM)
• Crawford University
• Covenant University (CU)
• Coal City University (CCU)
• Lead City University (LCU)
• Turkish Nile University

How much are the average school fees of private universities in Nigeria?

The average school fees of private universities in Nigeria range from N150,000 to N700,000, depending on the course.

How many private universities are in Nigeria?

Nigeria has 258 universities in Nigeria; 148 private universities, 60 state universities, and 50 federal universities.

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Which African country has the cheapest university fees?

Nigeria is among the African countries with the cheapest universities in the world. Some private and federal universities charge tuition fees way below $100 per session.

Which country has the most universities in Africa?

Nigeria has the highest number of universities and other higher-learning institutions in Africa.

Which private university in Nigeria has the lowest fees?

The infrastructure a private university has, its student population, the number of staff and other employers, exchange programs with institutions abroad, and other factors can help you estimate the value of a college. Below are some private universities in Nigeria that have affordable fees:

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What is the cheapest university in Nigeria?

Most private universities in Nigeria are expensive because they enroll students from distant geographic regions, unlike public schools, which usually attract students closer to home. However, you can still get an affordable private institution in Nigeria. Some include:

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Which university has affordable fees in Nigeria?

The standard completion time for a bachelor's degree in Nigeria is four years, and two years for a master's degree. A public school sticks to this general schedule, but a private college can help you complete your studies faster. If you need an affordable private university in Nigeria, here are some schools you can apply to:

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Which private university is the least expensive in Lagos?

Often, people think a university is expensive just because it is private. On the contrary, this isn't always the case. Some private universities consider local students when setting their fee rates. Some affordable private universities in Lagos, Nigeria, include:

• Anchor University
• African University of Science and Technology
• Baze University
• Pan-Atlantic University
• Turkish Nile University
• Veritas University

Which university has the most students in Nigeria?

The National Open University is the largest Nigerian university by student population size. The school has over half a million students.

Which Nigerian university is among the best in the world?

University of Lagos (UNILAG), University of Ibadan (UI), and Covenant University are among the 1,000 top universities in the world.

What is the most expensive university in Nigeria?

The Nile University is the most expensive private university in Nigeria. In 2019, the institute charged N2.4 million (around $5,800) average annual tuition fee for bachelor's programs.

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The cheapest private universities in Nigeria offer quality education just like the rest. The Nigerian Universities Commission authorizes such institutions to operate in the country since not everyone can afford expensive schools.

Legit.ng also shared educative details about the NYSC registration guidelines, requirements, documents, and how to use their portal.

Undergraduates are now allowed to proceed to NYSC after graduation. Most graduates attend their one-year mandatory NYSC program after completing their bachelor's degree studies.

Source: Legit.ng