Federal universities in Nigeria are the cornerstone of the nation’s higher education system, offering affordable, government-funded learning opportunities for millions of students. As of 2025, the National Universities Commission (NUC) officially recognizes 63 federal universities across all 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).
These institutions are established, funded, and managed by the Federal Government of Nigeria through the Federal Ministry of Education and regulated by the NUC. They provide access to quality tertiary education in diverse fields including science, technology, medicine, agriculture, and the arts.
This guide presents the full 2025 NUC-approved list of federal universities in Nigeria, along with rankings, admission requirements, tuition fees, and policy updates. It also explains how federal universities differ from state and private ones, helping students make informed choices.
What Are Federal Universities in Nigeria?
Federal universities are tertiary institutions owned and financed by the Federal Government. They were created to promote national unity, equal access, and educational excellence across regions. The NUC serves as the main regulatory body, ensuring that every federal university meets minimum academic and infrastructural standards.
Unlike state universities, which are funded by individual states, and private universities, which rely on tuition and private investments, federal universities receive direct budgetary support from the national government. This public funding makes them significantly more affordable, with annual tuition fees typically ranging from ₦30,000 to ₦100,000.
Examples include University of Ibadan (UI), University of Lagos (UNILAG), and Ahmadu Bello University (ABU Zaria), all recognized for their academic reputation and nationwide diversity.
Historical Background of Federal Universities
Nigeria’s federal university system began in 1948 with the establishment of the University College Ibadan (now the University of Ibadan). This marked the country’s first step toward developing its own higher education structure.
During the post-independence era, additional universities were created to meet regional educational needs:
- University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN) in 1960
- Ahmadu Bello University (ABU) and Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU) in 1962
- University of Lagos (UNILAG) in 1962
These institutions, known as the first-generation universities, shaped Nigeria’s academic landscape.
Subsequent decades saw the creation of “second” and “third generation” universities, including the University of Ilorin (UNILORIN), University of Port Harcourt (UNIPORT), and Federal University of Technology, Akure (FUTA). Recent government initiatives have focused on specialized universities of agriculture, health sciences, and technology.
Under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration, new universities have been approved in Ekiti, Osun, and Gombe to further expand access to education and strengthen research capacity nationwide.
Full List of Federal Universities in Nigeria (2025 Updated)
As of 2025, there are 63 NUC-approved federal universities in Nigeria. These institutions are authorized to award degrees and operate under NUC accreditation.
Source: National Universities Commission (NUC)
- Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University, Bauchi
- Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria
- Bayero University, Kano
- Federal University Gashua, Yobe
- Federal University of Petroleum Resources, Effurun
- Federal University of Technology, Akure
- Federal University of Technology, Minna
- Federal University of Technology, Owerri
- Federal University, Dutse, Jigawa State
- Federal University, Dutsin-Ma, Katsina
- Federal University, Kashere, Gombe State
- Federal University, Lafia, Nasarawa State
- Federal University, Lokoja, Kogi State
- Federal University, Ndufu-Alike, Ebonyi State
- Federal University, Otuoke, Bayelsa State
- Federal University, Oye-Ekiti, Ekiti State
- Federal University, Wukari, Taraba State
- Federal University, Birnin Kebbi
- Federal University, Gusau, Zamfara
- Michael Okpara University of Agriculture, Umudike
- Modibbo Adama University of Technology, Yola
- National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN)
- Nigeria Police Academy, Wudil
- Nigerian Defence Academy, Kaduna
- Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka
- Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife
- University of Abuja, Gwagwalada
- University of Agriculture, Abeokuta
- University of Agriculture, Makurdi
- University of Benin
- University of Calabar
- University of Ibadan
- University of Ilorin
- University of Jos
- University of Lagos
- University of Maiduguri
- University of Nigeria, Nsukka
- University of Port Harcourt
- University of Uyo
- Usmanu Danfodiyo University, Sokoto
- Nigerian Maritime University, Okerenkoko, Delta State
- Air Force Institute of Technology, Kaduna
- Federal University of Health Sciences, Otukpo
- Federal University of Health Sciences, Azare
- Federal University of Technology, Ikot Abasi
- Federal University of Agriculture, Zuru
- Federal University of Education, Kano
- Federal University of Education, Kontagora
- Federal University of Technology, Babura
- Federal University of Technology, Kaltungo
- Federal University of Technology, Ikot Ekpene
- Federal University of Medical and Health Sciences, Kwale
- Federal University of Medical and Health Sciences, Benue
- Federal University of Transportation, Daura
- Federal University of Technology, Funtua
- Federal University of Health, Nutrition & Medical Sciences, Egbe
- Federal University of Agriculture, Mubi
- Federal University of Allied Health Sciences, Enugu
- Federal University of Technology, Anambra
- Federal University of Health Sciences, Ekiti
- Federal University of Technology, Kebbi
- Federal University of Technology, Gombe
- Federal University of Technology, Taraba
Federal Universities by State and Region
To ensure fair representation, federal universities are distributed across Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones:
- North Central: University of Abuja, FUT Minna, Federal University of Lafia, University of Ilorin
- North East: University of Maiduguri, ATBU Bauchi, Federal University Gashua, Federal University Kashere
- North West: Ahmadu Bello University, Bayero University, Usmanu Danfodiyo University
- South West: University of Lagos, Obafemi Awolowo University, FUTA, University of Ibadan
- South East: University of Nigeria Nsukka, Nnamdi Azikiwe University, MOUA Umudike
- South South: University of Benin, University of Port Harcourt, Federal University Otuoke
This balanced structure fosters inclusivity, national cohesion, and access to education regardless of region.
Top and Best Federal Universities in Nigeria (2025 Rankings)
According to Times Higher Education (THE) and NUC 2025 data, the leading federal universities in Nigeria include:
- University of Ibadan (UI) – Highest global ranking and research reputation.
- University of Lagos (UNILAG) – Known for innovation and employability.
- Ahmadu Bello University (ABU Zaria) – Strong in agriculture and social sciences.
- University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN) – Excellent research output and alumni network.
- Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU) – Distinguished in law, arts, and architecture.
- University of Ilorin (UNILORIN) – Famous for uninterrupted academic calendar.
- University of Port Harcourt (UNIPORT) – Top in oil and gas research.
- Federal University of Technology, Akure (FUTA) – Premier technology university.
- University of Benin (UNIBEN) – Excellence in health sciences.
- Bayero University, Kano (BUK) – Emerging research hub in northern Nigeria.
These rankings reflect academic quality, employability, global partnerships, and research impact.
Newly Established Federal Universities in Nigeria (2021–2025)
In response to population growth and rising enrollment, several new federal universities were created between 2021 and 2025. These include:
- Federal University of Technology, Ikot Abasi (Akwa Ibom State)
- Federal University of Health Sciences, Azare (Bauchi State)
- Federal University of Medical and Health Sciences, Benue
- Federal University of Education, Kano
- Federal University of Transportation, Daura (Katsina State)
These new universities target specialized areas such as technology, transportation, and health sciences, reflecting Nigeria’s push for innovation-driven education.
Admission Requirements and JAMB Cut-off Marks
To gain admission into a federal university, applicants must:
- Score between 180–200 in the JAMB examination (higher for competitive courses).
- Obtain at least five O’Level credits including English and Mathematics.
- Participate in the university’s post-UTME screening.
Competitive institutions like UI, UNILAG, and UNN often require JAMB scores of 210–250 depending on the program. Admission also considers “catchment areas” to ensure regional inclusion.
Tuition Fees and Funding Structure
Federal universities remain Nigeria’s most affordable tertiary institutions. Most charge ₦30,000–₦100,000 per session. Courses like Medicine, Engineering, and Law attract slightly higher fees.
Funding comes from the Federal Government budget and the Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFUND). Additionally, federal universities receive grants for research, equipment, and academic staff development.
Scholarship options include the Federal Government Scholarship Scheme and the PTDF Scholarship for STEM students.
Challenges Facing Federal Universities in Nigeria
Despite their importance, federal universities face serious challenges.
Key issues include:
- Inadequate funding leading to poor infrastructure.
- Frequent ASUU strikes disrupting academic calendars.
- Overcrowding due to high demand.
- Outdated curricula and bureaucratic delays.
The NUC and Federal Ministry of Education are implementing reforms to grant universities more autonomy, improve funding, and promote digital learning.
Comparison: Federal vs State vs Private Universities
| Criteria | Federal | State | Private |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ownership | Federal Government | State Government | Private/Religious Bodies |
| Tuition | ₦30k–₦100k | ₦100k–₦250k | ₦300k–₦1m+ |
| Reach | National | Regional | Selective |
| Quality Assurance | NUC oversight | NUC oversight | NUC oversight |
| Accessibility | High | Moderate | Low |
Federal universities offer the best balance of cost, quality, and diversity, though state universities are more flexible, and private ones excel in infrastructure and stability.
NUC Accreditation and Governance Framework
The National Universities Commission (NUC) ensures all federal universities meet required academic standards. It conducts periodic accreditation and publishes the Nigerian University System Statistical Digest, which tracks enrollment, staffing, and institutional performance.
Universities that fail to meet standards risk losing accreditation until corrective measures are taken. The NUC also collaborates with TETFUND and the Federal Ministry of Education to enhance funding, research, and policy development.
How many federal universities are in Nigeria in 2025?
There are 63 federal universities approved by the NUC as of 2025.
Which is the oldest federal university in Nigeria?
The University of Ibadan (UI), established in 1948, is the oldest and highest-ranked.
Which is the best federal university?
According to Times Higher Education 2025, the top three are UI, UNILAG, and ABU Zaria.
What is the cheapest federal university?
Federal University Dutsin-Ma and University of Maiduguri are among the most affordable.
Do federal universities charge fees?
Yes, but they are heavily subsidized by the Federal Government.
How can I apply to a federal university?
Through the JAMB portal, followed by each university’s post-UTME screening.
Conclusion
Federal universities remain the foundation of Nigeria’s tertiary education. They offer affordable, inclusive, and high-quality learning opportunities that foster national unity and innovation.
While challenges persist, ongoing reforms, increased funding, and new universities show a strong commitment to strengthening the sector. Prospective students are encouraged to consult the official NUC website (www.nuc.edu.ng) for the most current updates on accreditation and admissions.
Federal universities will continue to drive Nigeria’s educational progress and global competitiveness for decades to come.