List of Private Universities in Nigeria

Do you want to study in a private university in Nigeria? Check this article for the complete list of private universities in Nigeria.

Nigeria is a leading destination for higher education in Africa. The country has over 200 universities offering a variety of postgraduate programs. In this article, our focus is on the Private universities in Nigeria. 

Private Universities are higher institutions that are not run or owned by the government. There are currently more than 100 private universities in Nigeria. These universities are spread across different states of the country with some of them ranking among the top 10 universities in Nigeria. 

Whether you're a prospective student, a parent searching for a University for your child, or simply curious about the private universities in Nigeria,  this list will provide you with all the private universities that offer postgraduate courses in Nigeria.

 

Why Study in a Private University in Nigeria?

Studying in a private university in Nigeria is a great academic decision as long as you can afford the tuition fee. In a Nigerian private university, there are hardly any strikes or disruption that can affect your studies.

On top of that, private universities offer opportunities for students looking to further their education and expand their horizons.

If you're curious to know why studying in a Nigerian Private University could be the right choice for you, keep reading to find out more.

Here are 5 reasons to study in a private university in Nigeria;

1. Faster Graduation

Private universities are usually less affected by strikes or long disruptions, which are common in public universities.

Private universities often have strict academic calendars, meaning you’re less likely to experience long breaks or delays in graduating. This can help you finish your program on time.

2. Better Laboratories and Facilities

Many private universities in Nigeria are funded by wealthy business moguls so the buildings are built to taste. Private universities have more modern facilities, properly maintained structures and up-to-date technology, which can help students learn better. 

3. Good Security

Private universities in Nigeria have controlled entry points, meaning that students cannot leave the school premises without a pass authorized by both their official guardian and school administrators.

4. Networking Opportunities 

It is no secret that a lot of wealthy and well connected people attend private universities.

Due to this, there are more chances to connect with people who can guide your career or offer opportunities in the future.

5. Smaller Class Sizes

Nigerian private universities usually have a smaller number of students than the government universities. Each classroom is well structured to accommodate students without overcrowding.

So, You’ll likely get more attention from your professors as well as a comfortable learning space in a private university because there are fewer students in each class.

 

List of Private Universities in Nigeria

The universities on this list are clickable links so you can checkout the full requirements for pursuing your studies in your school of choice.

1. List of Private Universities in Ogun State

Ogun state is a beautiful state in Southwestern Nigeria. It houses some of the best private universities in Nigeria and also the largest number of private universities in a Nigerian State.

• Babcock University, Ogun State
• Covenant University, Ogun state
• Bells University of Technology, Otta, Ogun State
• Crawford University, Igbesa, Ogun State
• Crescent University, Abeokuta, Ogun State
• McPherson University, Seriki Sotayo, Ajebo, Ogun State
• Southwestern University, Oku Owa, Ogun State
• Chrisland University, Owode, Ogun State
• Christopher University, Mowe, Ogun State
• Hallmark University, Ijebu-Itele, Ogun State
• Mountain Top University, Makogi/Oba, Ogun State
• Aletheia University, Ago-Iwoye, Ogun State
• Vision University, Ikogbo, Ogun State
• Gerar University of Medical Sciences, Imope-ljebu, Ogun State

 

2. List of Private Universities in Oyo State

Oyo State is located in the southwestern part of Nigeria, with Ibadan as its capital. The state is home to some prestigious private universities known for offering diverse courses and good facilities. These universities include;

• West Midland Open University, Ibadan, Oyo State
• Atiba University, Oyo, Oyo State
• Precious Cornerstone, Ibadan, Oyo State
• Kola Daisi University, Ibadan, Oyo State
• Dominican University, Ibadan, Oyo State
• Lead City University, Ibadan, Oyo State
• Ajayi Crowther University, Oyo State

 

3. List of Private Universities in Kwara State

Kwara State is a predominantly Muslim state located in the north-central region of Nigeria. The state is known for its diverse cultures and ethnic groups, including the Yoruba, Nupe, and Baruba people. The private universities in Kwara are;

• Al-Hikmah University, Ilorin, Kwara State
• Summit University, Offa, Kwara State
• Ojaja University, Ilorin, Kwara state
• Thomas Adewumi University, Oko-Irese, Kwara State
• Ahman Pategi University, Patigi, Kwara State
• University of Offa, Offa, Kwara State

 

4. List of Private Universities in Lagos State

Lagos State is located in the southwestern part of the country. The city is known for its hustle culture and high population. The private universities in Lagos state include;

• Pan-Atlantic University, Lagos State
• Caleb University, Imota, Lagos State
• Augustine University, Ilara, Lagos State
• Anchor University, Ayobo, Lagos State
• Maranatha University, Lekki, Lagos State
• James Hope University, Lekki, Lagos state
• Nigerian University of Technology and Management, Apapa, Lagos State
• Trinity University, Yaba

 

5. List of Private Universities in Akwa Ibom State

Akwa Ibom State is located in the southeastern part of Nigeria. It is known for its tropical forests and rich culture. The private universities in Akwa Ibom State are:

• Topfaith University, Mkpatak, Akwa-Ibom State
• Ritman University, Ikot Ekpene, Akwalbom State
• Obong University, Obong Ntak, Akwa Ibom State

 

6. List of Private Universities in Abia State

Abia State is located in the southeastern region of Nigeria, and its capital city is Umuahia.

Abia State has 5 private universities and they include; 

• Spiritan University, Neochi, Abia State
• Nigerian British University, Asa, Abia State
• Lux Mundi University, Umuahia, Abia State
• Clifford University, Abia State
• Gregory University, Uturu, Abia State

 

7. List of Private Universities in Rivers State

Rivers State is located in the southern part of Nigeria. The state is known as the centre for Nigeria's oil and gas industry, as it has the largest number of  oil reserves and refineries. 

The universities in Rivers State include;

• PAMO University of Medical Sciences, Port-Harcourt, Rivers State
• Wigwe University, Isiokpo, Rivers State

 

8. List of Private Universities in Kaduna State

Kaduna State is located in the northern part of Nigeria. It is also home to several ethnic groups, including the Hausa, Fulani, and many other indigenous communities. 

The private universities in Kaduna are;

• College of Petroleum and Energy Studies, Kaduna, Kaduna State
• Franco British International University, Kaduna, Kaduna State
• Nok University, Kachia, Kaduna State
• Greenfield University, Kasarami-Kaduna, Kaduna State

 

9. List of Private Universities in Adamawa State

Adamawa is located in the North Eastern part of Nigeria.

The state is home to both public and private universities, polytechnics, and other tertiary institutions offering various programs. The private university in Adamawa is;

•  American University of Nigeria, Adamawa State

 

10. List of Private Universities in Nasarawa State

Nasarawa State is located in the north-central region of Nigeria. The city is bordered by The state is bordered by the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Plateau, Kogi, and Benue states.

Nasarawa State has several higher education institutions, including public universities, polytechnics, and private institutions.

The private universities in Nasarawa include;

• Bingham University, New-Karu, Nasarawa State
• Ave-Maria University, Piyanko, Nasarawa State
• Mewar University, Masaka, Nasarawa State
• Phoenix University, Agwada, Nasarawa State

 

11. List of Private Universities in Taraba State

Taraba is a state in northeastern Nigeria that has several universities offering a range of academic programs. The notable private university in Taraba is:

• Kwararafa University, Wukari, Taraba State

 

12. List of Private Universities in Abuja

Abuja is the capital city of Nigeria, located in the central part of the country. As for private universities in Abuja, there are several reputable ones that offer a wide range of academic programs. They include;

• Canadian University of Nigeria, Abuja, FCT
• Miva Open University, Abuja, FCT
• Amaj University, Abuja, FCT
• Prime University, Abuja, FCT
• Cosmopolitan University, Abuja, FCT
• Al-Muhibbah Open University, Abuja, FCT
• Philomath University, Kuje, Abuja
• European University of Nigeria, Abuja, FCT
• Baze University, FCT Abuja
• Nigerian-Turkish Nile University, FCT Abuja
• African University of Science & Technology, Abuja

 

13. List of Private Universities in Delta State 

Delta State is located in the southern part of Nigeria, along the Niger Delta region.

Below are the private universities in Delta States. 

• Sports University, Idumuje, Ugboko, Delta State
• Margaret Lawrence University, Galilee, Delta State
• Edwin Clark University, Kiagbodo, Delta State
• Michael & Cecilia Ibru University, Owhode, Delta State
• Western Delta University, Oghara, Delta State
• Novena University, Ogume, Delta State

 

14. List of Private Universities in Benue State

Benue State is located in the middle-belt region of Nigeria. The state is mainly rural, and has only one private university.

• University of Mkar, Mkar, Benue State

 

15. List of Private Universities in Edo State

Edo State is located in the southern part of Nigeria. The private universities in Edo state includes;

• Igbinedion University Okada (IUO)
• Benson Idahosa University (BIU)
• Wellspring University, Evbuobanosa, Edo State
• Glorious Vision University (formerly Samuel Adegboyega University), Ogwa, Edo State
• Mudiame University, Irrua, Edo State

 

16. List of Private Universities in Enugu State 

Enugu State is located in southeastern Nigeria, and is the heart of Nigeria’s coal mining industry. The private universities in Enugu are;

• Caritas University
• Godfrey Okoye University, Ugwuomu-Nike, Enugu State
• Coal City University
• Maduka University, Ekwegbe, Enugu State
• Peaceland University, Enugu, Enugu State

 

17. List of Private Universities in Kano

Kano State is one of the largest historical states in northern Nigeria. It is a Muslim state and only houses Muslim private universities. Here are the key private universities in Kano.

• Elrazi University of Medical Sciences, Kano Kano State
• Azman University, Kano, Kano State
• Baba-Ahmed University, Kano, Kano State
• Khalifa Isiyaku Rabiu University, Kano, Kano State
• Capital City University, Kano, Kano State
• Maryam Abacha American University of Nigeria, Kano, Kano State
• AL-Istigama University, Sumaila, Kano State
• Skyline University, Nigeria, Kano, Kano State

 

18. List of Private Universities in Osun

Osun State, located in southwestern Nigeria has the following universities;

• Bowen University, Osun State
• Joseph Ayo Babalola University, Ikeji-Arakeji, Osun State
• Fountain University, Oshogbo, Osun State
• Oduduwa University, Ipetumodu, Osun State
• Adeleke University, Ede, Osun State
• Kings University Ode-Omu, Osun State
• Westland University, Iwo, Osun State
• Mercy Medical University, Iwara, Iwo, Osun State

 

19. List of Private Universities in Plateau 

Plateau State is home to a few private universities which cater to a wide range of academic disciplines. The universities in Plateau state includes; 

• ANAN University, Kwall, Plateau State
• Karl-Kumm University, Vom, Plateau State

 

20. List of Private Universities in Niger

Niger State, in central Nigeria, is the largest state in the country by land area. The state has three notable universities and they are:

• El-Amin University, Niger State
• Edusoko University, Bida, Niger State
• Newgate University, Minna, Niger State

 

21. List of Private Universities in Borno

There’s only one private university in Borno State and it is; 

• Al-Ansar University, Maiduguri, Borno

 

22. List of Private Universities in Gombe

Gombe State, located in the northeastern part of Nigeria has two private universities and they are; 

• Jewel University, Gombe, Gombe State
• Pen Resource University, Gombe, Gombe State

 

23. List of Private Universities in Sokoto

Sokoto State, located in the northwestern part of Nigeria, is one of the country’s most historically significant states. It has three private universities and they are;

• Iconic Open University, Sokoto, Sokoto State
• Northwest University, Sokoto, Sokoto State
• Saisa University Of Medical Sciences and Technology, Sokoto, Sokoto State

 

24. List of Private Universities in Anambra

Anambra State is located in southeastern Nigeria. The reputable private universities in Anambra are; 

• Madonna University, Anambra State
• Tansian University, Umunya, Anambra State
• Legacy University, Okija, Anambra State
• Peter University, Achina-Onneh, Anambra State
• University on the Niger, Umunya, Anambra State

 

25. List of Private Universities in Zamfara

Zamfara State, located in the northwestern part of Nigeria, is known for its rich cultural history.

The state has one private university named;

• Huda University, Gusau, Zamfara State

 

26. List of Private Universities in Ekiti

Ekiti State in Southwest Nigeria is home to the following private universities.

• Afe Babalola University, Ado-Ekiti – Ekiti State
• Venite University, Iloro-Ekiti, Ekiti State
• Hillside University of Science and Technology, Okemesi Ekiti, Ekiti State

 

27. List of Private Universities in Cross River 

The private universities in cross river are;

• Arthur Jarvis University, Akpabuyo, Cross River State
• Havilla University, Nde-Ikom, Cross River State
• British Canadian University, Obudu, Cross River State
• The Duke Medical University, Calabar, Cross River State

 

28. List of Private Universities in Kogi

Kogi State, located in central Nigeria, is often referred to as the "Confluence State" because of the meeting point of the Benue and Niger River’s. The private university in Kogi State is;

• Al-Bayan University, Kogi state

 

29. List of Private Universities in Imo State

Imo State is located in southeastern Nigeria. It’s private universities are;

• Hezekiah University, Umudi, Imo State
• Claretian University of Nigeria, Nekede, Imo State

 

30. List of Private Universities in Kebbi State

Kebbi State Kebbi State, located in the northwestern region of Nigeria is home to just one private university.

• Rayhaan University, Kebbi State

 

31. List of Private Universities in Katsina State

The private university in Katsina is; 

• AI-Qalam University, Katsina, Katsina State

 

32. List of Private Universities in Ondo State

Ondo, located in southwestern nigeria is a prominent region for tertiary education in Nigeria. It’s private universities are; 

• Achievers University, Owo, Ondo State
• Wesley University of Science & Technology, Ondo State
• Elizade University, Ilara-Mokin, Ondo State
• Sam Maris University, Supare, Ondo State

 

33. List of Private Universities in Bayelsa State

Bayelsa State, located in the South-South region of Nigeria. The private university in Bayelsa is;

• Hansard University, Toru-Orua, Bayelsa State

 

Conclusion

To all the aspiring students out there, this list of private universities will be very useful in finding the right school to help you achieve your dream of studying in a Nigerian private university. Good luck on your academic journey.