Top 30 Private Universities In Nigeria [School Fees, Lots More]

Wondering what the best private universities in Nigeria are? Then you’re on the right page. We will show you the Top 30 Private Universities in Nigeria. This is based on the Webometrics 2022 latest ranking.

Prior 21st century, it was illegal for a private person to own a tertiary institution in Nigeria. In 1993, the Decree repelling persons from opening a university was amended.

Ever since then, Private Universities, which are like babies when compared to old government Universities in Nigeria, have grown exponentially.

Today, some private universities now compete with the best Government-owned universities.

On this page, we will show you the top 30 private universities in Nigeria. The list will be based on Webometrics’ latest ranking.

We figured out that this page won’t be very informative and comprehensive if we just list out the top Universities.

Hence, for each page, we will tell you its location, year established, school fees, founder, and Unique Selling Point (USP) if any. We will also show you their rank in Nigeria and World.

For further reading, we will also give you links to check out their courses, a detailed breakdown of school fees, how to apply for their forms and their news page on our site.

But before we continue, let’s give you some QUICK FACTS:

• Oldest Universities on this List – Babcock University, Igbinedion University, and Madonna University.
• Youngest University on this List – Skyline University Nigeria.
• Most Affordable Universities on this list – Lead City University, Edwin Clark University, and Adeleke University.
• Most Expensive Universities on this List – Nile University of Nigeria, Baze University, and Babcock University.
• Nigerian Pastor, David Oyedepo founded the top two best private universities in Nigeria — Covenant and Landmark University.

Now, the list!

TIP: You can click on any of the schools below to jump to it’s details.

What are the Top 30 Private Universities in Nigeria?

1. Covenant University

At a glance:

• Location: Canaan Land, Ota, Ogun State
• Year Established: 2002
• School Fees: N900,000 to N2,500,000.
• Founder: David Oyedepo (owner of Living Faith Church Worldwide aka Winners Chappel)
• USP: The Best Private University in Nigeria and among the leading Universities in Africa.

Covenant University is a Private Pentecostal Christian University, which has been operating with official status since 2002 in Ota, Ogun State, Nigeria.

It drives a vision to raise a new generation of leaders and reinstate the black race’s dignity. The University prioritizes cutting-edge learning to make the Total Man.

Covenant University has had a rapid rise in nearly two decades of its existence. The webometric ranking named Covenant University the best Private University in Nigeria in its 2022 ranking and the second overall best university in Nigeria.

UniRank and TimesHigherEducation has also named Covenant University as the best private University in Nigeria.

Covenant University is also one of the leading universities in the world. Webometrics said they are the #1353rd best Varsity, while TimesHigherEducation said they appear between 6001 – 800 range.

Covenant University (CU) offers courses and programs leading to officially recognized higher education degrees such as bachelor degrees, master degrees, doctorate degrees in several areas of study.

Covenant University Ranking From Different Sources

READ FURTHER:

• Covenant University Courses and Requirements
• Covenant University Post UTME Form
• Covenant University Postgraduate Form
• Covenant University News

2. Landmark University

At a glance:

• Location: Omu-Aran, Kwara State
• Year Established: 2011
• School Fees: N900,000 to N2,500,000.
• Founder: David Oyedepo (owner of Living Faith Church Worldwide aka Winners Chappel)
• USP: Owned by David Oyedepo

Landmark University is a private University established by the Living Faith Church World Wide, committed to raising leaders who shall be equipped with skills and character to lead the world in meeting the needs of humanity-FOOD.

Landmark University was established to make landmark contributions to knowledge in order to secure increased comfort for humanity by “Breaking New Grounds” in teaching, research and community service as she engages the strategy of promoting collaboration between related disciplines as a conventional university.

On March 7, 2011, the University was licensed by National Universities Commission (NUC) to run undergraduate programs in the Colleges of Agricultural Sciences; Sciences and Engineering, Business and Social Sciences. On March 21, 2011, the University was officially dedicated and commenced full operation.

Landmark University Ranking From Different Sources

FURTHER READING:

• Landmark University Courses and Requirements
• Landmark University Post UTME Form
• Landmark University Postgraduate Form
• Landmark University News

3. Redeemer’s University

At a Glance:

• Location: Gbongan-Osogbo Road, Akoda-Ede, Ede Osun State
• Year Established: 2005
• School Fees: N645,000 – N1,000,000
• Founder: Pastor Enoch Adeboye, Owner of Redeemed Christian Church
• USP: 3-Person All-Ensuite Accommodation

Established in 2005, Redeemer’s University intends to produce graduates who can stand on their own and adapt to the ever-changing situations in our dynamic society.

In particular, the university wants to nurture the spirit of entrepreneurship so that its graduates would be in a position to create jobs rather than relying on employment which is now indeed scarce.

Redeemer’s University Awards and Ranks

FURTHER READING:

• Redeemer’s University Courses and Requirements
• Redeemer’s University Post UTME Form
• Redeemer’s University School Fees
• Redeemer’s University University News

4. African University of Science & Technology Abuja

At a glance:

• Location: Garki, FCT, Abuja Nigeria
• Year Established: 2007
• School Fees: N1,200,000 – N2,800,000
• Founder: Nelson Mandela Institution
• USP: A member of Nelson Mandela Institute

The African University of Science and Technology is a private university which is part of a university system concept developed by the Nelson Mandela Institution (NMI, Inc.). 

NMI’s goal was and remains the creation of world class research and advanced training institutes in relevant scientific and technological disciplines which would serve as regional resources and centres of excellence in sub-Saharan Africa.

AUST currently offers programs in Computer Science and Management of Information Technology, Material Science and Engineering, Petroleum Engineering, Pure and Applied Mathematics, Space and Aerospace Sciences and Engineering.

In the first decade of its existence, every student who came to AUST was able to do so on a full scholarship, the result of dedicated fund-raising efforts to remain faithful to the original thought expressed by Nelson Mandela in support of the AUST, namely that no one with the ability to study and conduct valuable research should be prevented from doing so by lack of money.

AUST Ranking From Different Sources

5. American University of Nigeria

At a Glance:

• School Location: Lamido Zubairu Way, Yola, Adamawa State, Nigeria
• Year Established: 2003
• School Fees: N2,200,000 – N3,200,000
• Founder: Atiku Abubakar (former Vice President of Nigeria)
• USP: American-styled education

American University of Nigeria (AUN) was founded by former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, GCON, in Yola, the capital of his home state of Adamawa, Northeast Nigeria.

Having first established a private primary and secondary school, ABTI Academy (now AUN Academy) in 2002, His Excellency Atiku Abubakar approached the American University (AU) in Washington, DC, for advice and assistance in establishing an American-style university.

That university was licensed as ABTI University in 2003, and the ground was broken for the buildings in October 2004 on the land originally donated by the 11th Lamido Adamawa, the late Alhaji (Dr.) Aliyu Musdafa, CFR. Today, it is seated on more than 2,500 acres. ABTI University was later renamed to American University of Nigeria (AUN).

In 2008, the National Universities Commission (NUC) accredited AUN programs and re-accredited them in 2013. In 2012, AUN launched a graduate program, the Executive Master’s degree in Information Technology. Since then, more programs up to the Ph.D. level have been approved by the NUC.

AUN Ranking From Different Sources

FURTHER READING:

• AUN Courses and Requirements
• AUN Post UTME Form
• AUN School Fees
• American University Of Nigeria News

6. Skyline University Nigeria

At a Glance:

• School Location: No 2 Zaria Road, Opposite Old Kano-Line Bus-Stop, Kano State, Nigeria
• Year Established: 2018
• School Fees: N2,500,000 – N3,000,000
• Founder: Mr. Kamal Puri (Entrepreneur)
• USP: The university boasts of quality staff and faculty members drawn from different parts of the world.

The mission to establish Skyline University Nigeria took concrete form in 1990 when Skyline University College was established by the proprietor, at Sharjah, United Arab Emirates. The fame of this University College grew exponentially and students’ enrolment soon increased at an increasing rate with a large number of international students coming from Nigeria.

The major motivation to establish Skyline University Nigeria is to achieve the same mark of academic and all-around excellence that Skyline University College (SUC) has achieved within 3 decades of her existence in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) by providing a total life-changing education at the tertiary level. The aim, therefore, is to complete the circle of education, which began humbly in 1990 to educate the young Nigerians as a commitment to exceptional life-long learning.

As a distinct world-class private university, Skyline University Nigeria (SUN) offers courses in both Arts and Sciences, through the Schools of Art, Management and Social Sciences (SAMSS), School of Science and Information Technology (SSIT) and the School of Basic Medical Sciences (SBMS).

The word ‘Skyline’ means the boundary between the earth and sky otherwise referred to as the apparent horizon. It is the line along which the surface of the earth and the sky appear to meet the horizon. It also connotes the shapes made by buildings and mountains when you see them against the sky.

Primarily, the goal of the university is to be recognized both locally and internationally as the citadel of academic excellence. The university boasts of quality staff and faculty members drawn from different parts of the world.

Skyline University Ranking From Different Sources

FURTHER READING:

• Skyline University Courses and Requirements
• Skyline University School Fees Schedule
• Skyline University Post UTME Form
• Skyline University News

7. Joseph Ayo Babalola University

At a Glance:

• School Location: Along Ilesa-Akure Express Road Ikeji-Arakeji, Osun State
• Year Established: 2006
• School Fees: NA
• Founder: Christ Apostolic Church
• USP: First entrepreneurial university in Nigeria

Joseph Ayo Babalola University (JABU) is a private Nigerian university located in Ipo Arakeji and Ikeji Arakeji, two neighboring communities in Osun State, Nigeria, established by the Christ Apostolic Church (CAC).

The university is named after the first spiritual leader of Christ Apostolic Church, Joseph Ayo Babalola (1904–1959). Joseph Ayo Babalola University is a fully residential institution.

The university offers courses in the following colleges; Agricultural and Natural Sciences, Environmental Sciences, Humanities, Law, Management Sciences, and Social Sciences.

Due to its Christian foundations, male and female in the school are enjoined to adopt an extremely modest mode of dressing while on campus.

Joseph Ayo Babalola University is committed to providing excellent teaching, research and service that will encourage learning and stimulate academic exchange at both national and international fora with undergraduate, postgraduate and professional programs of finest quality.

JABU Ranking From Different Sources

FURTHER READING:

• JABU Courses and Requirements
• JABU Post UTME Form
• Joseph Ayo Babalola University University News

8. Babcock University

At a Glance:

• School Location: Ilishan-Remo Ogun State
• Year Established: 1999
• School Fees: N288,779 – N4,000,000
• Founder: Seventh-day Adventist Church
• USP: First Accredited Private University in Nigeria

BABCOCK UNIVERSITY (BU)—as it is now known—actually began on September 17, 1959 as Adventist College of West Africa (ACWA). Established by the Seventh-day Adventist Church as a senior college for training church workers from the West African sub-region, ACWA opened  its doors with only seven ministerial students.

By 1966, when it graduated  the first set of Bachelor of Arts degree holders in its own name, enrolment included students taking Business Administration as potential accountants within and outside the Church; and two-year Pre-Nursing students in preparation to pursue a nursing career at the Church’s School of Nursing at Ile-Ife, Osun State.

History was made in 1975 when ACWA became the first institution in Nigeria to sign and operate an affiliation agreement with Andrews University, Berrien Springs, Michigan, USA. This relationship enabled it to award Bachelor of Arts degrees from Andrews University in Biology, Business Administration, History, Religion and Secretarial Studies.

Being a pioneer private University in Nigeria since 1999, Babcock has continued this legacy of upholding a cutting-edge excellence in education. Babcock now has a postgraduate school which took off in the third quarter of 2010 and a medical school which took off in January 2012.

Babcock University Ranking From Different Sources

FURTHER READING:

• Babcock University Courses and Requirements
• Babcock University Post UTME Form
• Babcock University School Fees Schedule
• Babcock University News

9. Gregory University Uturu

At a Glance:

• School Location: Uturu, Abia State
• Year Established: 2012
• School Fees: NA
• Founder: Gregory Ibe
• USP: Classroom Lectures are delivered using E-Learning Technologies

Gregory University (GUU) is located in Uturu, Abia State in Nigeria. It is a Private University named after Saint Gregory the Great, Bishop of Rome from 3 September 590 to his death.

The mission of Gregory University is to produce God fearing, ethically sound and highly skilled global leaders who shall be catalyst for technological and socio-economic advancement in their environment.

The Vision of Gregory University is to be a world renowned University noted for the high quality of its academic and research programme as well as its Professionals, practical and entrepreneurial capacity development.

Below are Gregory University Ranking From Different Sources

FURTHER READING: Gregory University Courses and Requirements

10. Pan Atlantic University

At a Glance:

• School Location: Lagos State
• Year Established: 2002
• School Fees: N2,400,000 – N3,300,000
• Founder: NA
• USP:  Curriculum in the University is developed in close collaboration with industry leaders as well as professional bodies.

In 1991, the now-university started as a Lagos Business School (LBS). In 2002, federal government approved the university as Pan-African University, and the LBS became its first school.

In May 2013 its name was changed to Pan-Atlantic University, in order to avoid confusion with the Pan-African University of the African Union.

On 17 November 2014, the University launched its first ever undergraduate programmes in its new campus at Ibeju-Lekki.

The Mission of the University is: “to form competent and committed professionals and encourage them to serve with personal initiative and social responsibility the community in which they work, thereby helping to build a better society in Nigeria and Africa at large.” 

Pan-Atlantic University Ranking From Different Sources

FURTHER READING:

• Pan-Atlantic University Courses and Requirements
• Pan-Atlantic University Post UTME Form
• Pan-Atlantic University School Fees Schedule
• Pan-Atlantic University News

11. Igbinedion University Okada

At a Glance:

• School Location: Mission Road Okada, Edo State
• Year Established: 1999
• School Fees: N715,000- N3,000,000
• Founder: Gabriel Igbinedion (Philanthropist and Chief in Benin)
• USP: First licensed Private University in Nigeria

Igbinedion University, Okada (IUO) is a privately owned university in Nigeria, founded and established on 10 May 1999. Thus, Igbinedion University became the first licensed Private University in Nigeria.

The foundation students of the University arrived at Okada on Friday 15 October, 1999.

The University’s mission is to be a center of academic excellence through teaching, research and knowledge production in response to contextualized national and global needs.

Its mission is to pursue excellence in teaching, research and scholarship through the provision of world class facilities and opportunities for education, training and employment to all those able to benefit without any form of discrimination

Igbinedion University Okada Ranking From Different Sources

FURTHER READING:

• Igbinedion University Courses and Requirements
• Igbinedion University Post UTME Form
• Igbinedion University School Fees Schedule
• Igbinedion University News

12. Bowen University

At a Glance:

• School Location: Iwo, Osun State
• Year Established: 2001
• School Fees: N500,000 – N3,600,000
• Founder: Nigerian Baptist Convention (Christian Church)
• USP: One of the oldest Private University in Nigeria

Bowen is one of the oldest private institution of higher education in Nigeria, established in 2001 by the Nigerian Baptist Convention (NBC).

The major foundation of what has become Bowen University today was laid in 1854. That year, the family of the late Rev. Thomas Jefferson Bowen started a school in Ijaiye Orile in the present Oyo State of Nigeria.

The School, comprising five stewards of the late Bowens, five other labourers, and a few others drawn to the fledgling school by sheer curiosity, has grown from this little beginning in 1854 into thousands of Baptist Primary and Secondary Schools scattered across the country.

The idea of establishing a Baptist University in Nigeria was first conceived in 1938. This was borne out of the Baptist commitment to assist the people to develop their potentials to the fullest.

On 17th of July, 2001, the Federal Government of Nigeria approved the establishment of Bowen University and was subsequently licensed to operate by the National Universities Commission (NUC).

On 4th November, 2002, Bowen University commended academic activities with 506 pioneering students.

Today, Bowen University is one of the top Universities in Nigeria.

Bowen University Ranking From Different Sources

FURTHER READING:

• Bowen University Courses and Requirements
• Bowen University Post UTME Form
• Bowen University School Fees Schedule
• Bowen University News

13. Baze University

At a Glance:

• School Location: Jabi Airport Road Bypass (Ring Road), FCT Abuja
• Year Established: 2011
• School Fees: N3,000,000 – N5,000,000
• Founder: Yusuf Datti Baba-Ahmed (Politician, Running mate to Peter Obi, 2023 Presidential Candidate)
• USP: Experienced international staff, superb teaching equipment, and overseas external examiners.

Baze University is a distinctive quality-based educational institution with a mission to establish and maintain a more suitable academic environment, synergizing world-class human capital and best technology for creating and impacting knowledge to develop and modernize the Nigerian society.

While the University’s main Campus is just 6km from Abuja Central Area, they have another site at Bwari.

Baze began in April 2011 with a Foundation class and three Faculties: Management & Social Scences, Law, Computing & Applied Sciences. Currently BAZE University has 6 Faculties which includes the three (3) foundational faculties, Faculty of Engineering, Basic Medical and Environmental Sciences

Baze University Ranking From Different Sources

FURTHER READING:

• Baze University Courses and Requirements
• Baze University Post UTME Form
• Baze University School Fees Schedule
• Baze University News

14. Nile University of Nigeria

At a Glance:

• School Location: Research & Institution Area, Jabi Airport Bypass, FCT Abuja.
• Year Established: 2009
• School Fees: N2,400,000 – N5,750,000
• Founder: Sabdat Jimoh (Businessman)
• USP: A member of the Honoris United Universities, the first and largest pan-African private higher education network

Nile University, founded in 2009 and sited on a 113-hectare campus got acquired in July 2020 by Actis Capital backed Honoris United Universities becoming one of its member universities alongside educational institutions in countries of Tunisia, Morocco, Mauritius, South Africa, Zimbabwe and Zambia.

The university’s degrees are accredited by the Nigerian Universities Commission (NUC) and professional authorities including ICAN, COREN, Council of Legal Education and Medical and Dental Council of Nigeria (MDCN).

Nile University hosts a basketball team called Nile Spartans formed in 2018 which regularly featured in the second tier of the Nigerian National Basketball League and won the prestigious National Division Two in November 2019 and the Sam Ogwuche International Sports Foundation tournament in June 2021.

Nile University Ranking From Different Sources

FURTHER READING:

• Nile University Courses and Requirements
• Nile University Post UTME Form
• Nile University School Fees Schedule
• Nile University News

15. Mountain Top University

At a Glance:

• School Location: Lagos-Ibadan Expressway Makogi Oba Ogun State
• Year Established: 2015
• School Fees: N700,000 – N1,000,000
• Founder:  Mountain of Fire and Miracles Ministries (Pentecostal Christian Church)
• USP: Young but Top University

The Mountain Top University was founded by the Mountain of Fire and Miracles Ministries (MFM), a full gospel ministry which was established by Dr. Daniel Kolawole Olukoya.

The Mountain Top University is envisioned as a dynamic centre of excellence in the liberal tradition of excellence for the production of top-rated, morally sound graduates of distinctions who will be globally competitive for outstanding impact on the Nigerian societal and global development.

Its mission is the provision of excellent facilities for the training of men and women in various academic, professional and vocational disciplines in an atmosphere that will enhance the simultaneous development of their spiritual, mental and physical faculties, in order to produce morally upright and academically sound graduates

Mountain Top University Ranking From Different Sources

FURTHER READING:

• Mountain Top University Courses and Requirements
• Mountain Top University Post UTME Form
• Mountain Top University School Fees Schedule
• Mountain Top University News

16. Adeleke University Ede

At a Glance:

• School Location: Loogun-Ogberin Road Ede Osun State
• Year Established: 2011
• School Fees: N261,000 – N1,500,000
• Founder: Adedeji Adeleke (Davido’s Father)
• USP: One of the most affordable Private universities in Nigeria

Adeleke University is a private faith-based learning institution located in a serene and nature friendly atmosphere of 520 acres of land in the historic town of Ede, Osun State, South-Western part of Nigeria.

The University was founded in 2011 by Dr. Adedeji Adeleke, through the Springtime Development Foundation (SDF), a philanthropic, non- profit making organisation established to assist indigent students to benefit from quality higher education.

With strict commitment to realising the vision and mission of the founding fathers, the university today offers one of the most affordable but best quality education in Nigeria, with unique features like, scholarship opportunities, flexibility in payment of fees, acquisition of entrepreneural skills, high quality teaching, research and innovative learning.

Adeleke University Ranking From Different Sources

FURTHER READING:

• Adeleke University Courses and Requirements
• Adeleke University Post UTME Form
• Adeleke University School Fees Schedule
• Adeleke University News

17. Ajayi Crowther University Oyo

At a Glance:

• School Location: Ogbomosho Expressway, Oyo State
• Year Established: 2005
• School Fees: N307,000 – N1,000,000
• Founder: Anglican Communion (Christian Church)
• USP: Affordable

The Ajayi Crowther University, Oyo was established by the Supra Diocesan Board (West) of the Church of Nigeria (Anglican Communion), has its origins in the defunct CMS training institution, Abeokuta and the defunct St. Andrews College, Oyo.

The University started as CMS Training Institution in Abeokuta in 1853 from where it was relocated to Lagos (1868 to 1896). In March 1896, it was transplanted to Oyo retrospectively in 1920.

Having satisfied the rigorous criteria prescribed by the National Universities Commision (NUC) for the establishment of Universities in Nigeria, Ajayi Crowther University (ACU) was granted license to operate as a Private University in Nigeria on 7 January 2005.

The University is named after the late Samuel Ajayi Crowther, the first African Bishop who first translated the bible into Yoruba.

Ajayi Crowther University Ranking From Different Sources

FURTHER READING:

• Ajayi Crowther University Courses and Requirements
• Ajayi Crowther University Post UTME Form
• Ajayi Crowther University School Fees Schedule
• Ajayi Crowther University News

18. Godfrey Okoye University

At a Glance:

• School Location: Ugwuomu-Nike, Enugu
• Year Established: 2009
• School Fees: N300,000 – N700,000
• Founder: Very Reverend Father Professor Dr. Christian Anieke (for Catholic Diocese of Enugu)
• USP: Very affordable

The idea of establishing a Catholic University by the Catholic Diocese of Enugu was first conceived and presented by the Emeritus Bishop of Enugu, Most Rev. Dr. A. O. Gbuji, to all priests of the diocese.

He wanted a university with the name “Cor Unum”, a university that could represent the unity of all educational institutions and activities of the diocese. In spite of the effort of the bishop to see the project take off immediately, it did not.

Bishop Gbuji later discussed his plan with Rev. Fr. Prof. Christian Anieke, whom he had appointed the provost of the Institute of Ecumenical Education in February 2006.

In 2009, Very Reverend Father Professor Dr. Christian Anieke for the Catholic Diocese of Enugu, saw to it that the university was established.

That same year, the university got its operational licence from the National Universities Commission.

The University belongs to the Catholic Diocese of Enugu in Nigeria.

Godfrey Okoye University Ranking From Different Sources

FURTHER READING:

• Godfrey Okoye University Courses and Requirements
• Godfrey Okoye University Post UTME Form
• Godfrey Okoye University School Fees Schedule
• Godfrey Okoye University News

19. Veritas University

At a Glance:

• School Location: Gwarinpa Abuja
• Year Established: 2007
• School Fees: ₦610,800 – ₦ 1,550,000
• Founder: Catholic Bishops Conference of Nigeria
• USP: Owned by Catholic Bishops

Veritas University Abuja (VUNA), also known as the Catholic University of Nigeria, was founded by the Catholic Bishops Conference of Nigeria through a resolution given at its March 2002 meeting in Abuja.

The initiative was born of the collective desire of the attending Bishops’ for a University that would provide high-quality tertiary education according to the tradition of the Catholic Church.

The Institution received its provisional operation licence in 2007 from the National Universities Commission and commenced admission of students in October 2008 at its take-off campus in Obehie, Abia State, Nigeria.

In 2014, it moved to its permanent site with its campus now located in the Bwari Area council of the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja. Nigeria.

Veritas University Ranking From Different Sources

FURTHER READING:

• Veritas University Courses and Requirements
• Veritas University Post UTME Form
• Veritas University School Fees Schedule
• Veritas University News

20. Southwestern University

At a Glance:

• School Location: Sagamu-Benin Expressway; Okun Owa, Ogun State
• Year Established: 2012
• School Fees: N500,000 – N1,000,000
• Founder: Babatunde Odufuwa

Southwestern University is a private University located in the Southwestern part of Nigeria.

It was officially recognized by the National Universities Commission of Nigeria (NUC) in 2012.

Southwestern University Ranking From Different Sources

FURTHER READING:

• Southwestern University Courses and Requirements
• Southwestern University Post UTME Form
• Southwestern University School Fees Schedule
• Southwestern University News

21. Bingham University

At a Glance:

• School Location: Abuja-Keffi Expressway, Auta Balifi, Nasarawa State
• Year Established: 2005
• School Fees: N340,000 – N2,500,000
• Founder: Evangelical Church Winning All (Christian Church)
• USP: Only Christian Private University in Northern Nigeria

Bingham University located in Karu, 25 kilometres from the Federal Capital city of Nigeria Abuja, was established in 2005 by the Evangelical Church Winning All (ECWA) as a Conventional University. It is one of the six private universities in the north and the only one established by a Christian organization.

The main purpose of ECWA was to meet the daring need for high-quality Secular Education which recognizes and integrates the moral and spiritual values on which the Christian faith is founded as well as focuses on entrepreneurial studies in order to promote self-reliance among graduates of the University.

The university has had four (4) Vice Chancellors since its inception. The Pioneer Vice Chancellor was Professor Aaron Gana of blessed memory from 2006 – 2017. He was succeeded by Professor Felix I. Anjorin also of blessed memory, from 2007 – 2013. The third Vice Chancellor was Professor Leonard Kursim Fwa from 2013 – 2017, while the fourth Vice-Chancellor is Professor Williams Barnabas Qurix, 2018 onward.

The mission of Bingham University is to produce graduates that are excellent in knowledge, character, and skills for self-reliance and in the fear of Christ

The University hopes to become a world-class University in knowledge and skills while inculcating moral and spiritual values on which the Christian faith is founded.

Bingham University Ranking From Different Sources

FURTHER READING:

• Bingham University Courses and Requirements
• Bingham University Post UTME Form
• Bingham University School Fees Schedule
• Bingham University News

22. Achievers University Owo

At a Glance:

• School Location: Idasen-Ute Road, Owo, Ondo State
• Year Established: 2007
• School Fees: ₦400,000 – ₦1,000,000
• Founder: Bode Ayorinde (Politician)
• USP: Affordable

Dr. Bode Ayorinde joined the then Cooperative Bank Plc in 1983 with a National Diploma in Secretarial Studies.

Desirous of making progress in the Banking Industry, he registered for the Chartered Institute of Bankers of Nigeria (CIBN) professional examinations and attended the Institute’s Tuition Centre at Ibadan to pass the first eight (8) subjects in Part 1 of the institute’s examination.

However, there was no tuition Centre in Ibadan to teach the remaining eight (8) subjects in Part 2 of the Institute’s examination, all Ibadan students had to go to Lagos every weekend for lectures.

This vacuum in Ibadan propelled Dr. Bode Ayorinde to establish the Achievers Continuing Education Centre in 1991 at Ibadan.

The Centre provided tuition for the professional examinations of CIBN, ATS and ICAN students. The Centre later added GCE and JAMB coaching, anchored the satellite campus of Ondo State Polytechnic at Ibadan, founded the Achievers High School, Ibadan and served as the spring board upon which Achievers University was established in Owo, his home town, in 2008.

Achievers Continuous Education Centre was initially a family business of Hon. Dr. Bode Ayorinde. The business was formally registered in 1994 as a private limited liability company.

However, the decision to expand the scope of the Educational Institute towards the establishment of a private University caused the family to invite notable personalities to join the company.

In 2007 the now-University got accredited by the National Universities Commission. It is located on land in the Idasen community of Owo.

The university commenced academic activities during the 2007–2008 academic session and has since then graduated 10 sets of students as of 2021.

In July 2012 it was one of the seven private universities in Nigeria to have its operating license suspended as part of a clampdown on private institutions offering unapproved or low-quality courses and substandard facilities. The license was however restored on July 17, 2012, following an inspection by the National Universities Commission.

Achievers University Ranking From Different Sources

FURTHER READING:

• Achievers University Courses and Requirements
• Achievers University Post UTME Form
• Achievers University School Fees Schedule
• Achievers University News

23. Madonna University Nigeria

At a Glance:

• School Location: Elele, Rivers State
• Year Established: 1999
• School Fees: N229,000 – N1,500,000
• Founder: Rev Fr. Emmanuel Edeh
• USP: One of the oldest private universities in Nigeria

Madonna University’s story dates back to the late 90s when Very Rev. Fr. Prof. E.M.P. Edeh founded the Institution.

By 1999, she had commenced active operation with the approval of the Federal Government of Nigeria.

That year, Madonna University not only became the first private Catholic university in the West African sub-region but also the first private university to be approved by the Federal Government of Nigeria, with its take-off campus at Okija, Anambra State.

Currently, the University operates under three campuses: in 2004 the main management campus was moved to Elele, Rivers State, with the Okija campus remaining one of its campuses, and in 2011 its Akpugo campus, for the engineering and technology sciences, came into full operation.

The university is currently in partnership with seven (7) foreign universities: Manipol Medical University Turkey, Kwame Nkruma University of Science and Technology Ghana, Centro Escolar University Phillippines, University of Southeastern Phillippines, University of Phillippines, Mindanao State University (Philippines), and St. Thomas University Miami USA.

Among other things, the University prides itself as:

• 1^st Nigerian University to operate a 100% boarding system for all her students
• 1^st Private University to produce licensed Medical Doctors in Nigeria.
• 1^st Private University to send Law graduates to Nigeria Law School.
• 1^st Private University in Nigeria to produce licensed Pharmacists.
• 1^st private University in Nigeria to operate Students work-study programme: a programme that helps Students: to earn some money by offering some services to the University during ‘their free periods.

The University’s vision is to produce graduates who can spread out to the world as Madonnites bringing peace and order; treating fellow humans as good and as worthy of honour and respect. They also hope to remain on the front line in terms of learning, teaching, and research.

Madonna University Ranking From Different Sources

FURTHER READING:

• Madonna University Courses and Requirements
• Madonna University School Fees Schedule
• Madonna University News

24. Lead City University

At a Glance:

• School Location: No. 1 Oba Otudeko Road, Toll Gate Area Ibadan, Oyo State
• Year Established: 2005
• School Fees: N250,000- N3,500,000
• Founder: Prof Jide Owoeye
• USP:  The University offers full and part scholarships to deserving and indigent students based on merit. 

The journey of Lead City University started in 2002 when it submitted its application to the National Universities Commission in the year 2002.

After rigorous assessments, the University was “approved for immediate take-off” by the Board of NUC in December 2003.

The University was at first called City University but in other to prevent identity problems, the Varsity changed its name to Lead City University, Ibadan, in March 2005.

The University commenced its academic activities at the Jericho Campus, located within Ibadan City.

The school offers programmes in Social Sciences & Entrepreneurial Studies, Information Technology & Applied Sciences, and Law.

Lead City University who currently has over 5,000 graduates, hopes to be a center of excellence, a unique, urban-based University, specializing in Social Sciences, Law, Applied Sciences, and Information and Communication Technology.

Table Showing Lead City University Ranking From Different Sources

FURTHER READING:

• Lead City University Post UTME Form
• Lead City University School Fees Schedule
• Lead City University News

25. Bells University of Technology Otta

At a Glance:

• School Location: Benja Village, Ota, Ogun State
• Year Established: 2005
• School Fees: N760,000 – N1,000,000
• Founder: Olusegun Obasanjo (Ex President of Nigeria)
• USP: Owned by former Nigerian President

The Bells University of Technology is the first private university of technology in Nigeria, established in 2004, and began admitting students from the 2005/2006 academic session.

Located in the Ogun State of Nigeria, the University is made up of three Colleges: College of Engineering & Environmental Sciences, College of Natural & Applied Sciences, and College of Management Sciences.

The University is owned by Chief Olusegun Obasanjo, a Nigerian political and military leader who served as Nigeria’s head of state from 1976 to 1979 and later as its president from 1999 to 2007.

The University’s vision is to be a world-renowned university that is committed to the development and transformation of society through environment-friendly technologies and other innovations.

The school’s main objective is to provide an enabling environment for effective learning and teaching, applying the results of research at the cutting-edge of science and technology. Emphasis is placed on areas of training that are suitable for self-employment creation and on those that have relevance to social, cultural, economic, scientific, and technological needs of Nigeria.

Bells University Ranking From Different Sources

FURTHER READING:

• Bells University Courses and Requirements
• Bells University Post UTME Form
• Bells University School Fees Schedule
• Bells University News

26. Benson Idahosa University

At a Glance:

• School Location: Benin City, Edo State
• Year Established: 2002
• School Fees: N360,000 – N3,600,000
• Founder: Benson Idahosa (founder of Church of God Mission International)
• USP: All students, irrespective of course of study, receive training in enterpreneurship, administration, management, personal branding, proposal development, resume writing and communication, negotiation, and project management.

“When in 1978, God told me that I was going to build a University for the glory of His Majesty, I knew that only God could accomplish such a feat in black Africa through a man”

Benson A. Idahosa words during the opening of the Varsity’s Faith Auditorium

The University’s history dates back to the 90s when Archbishop Benson Andrew Idahosa, in obedience to God’s mandate, established the Word of Faith Group of Schools.

In 1978, according to Benson Idahosa, God told him to establish a University, something that seemed quite impossible, due to Decree No. 33 Law excluding private persons from establishing Tertiary institutions.

Despite the setbacks, the Archbishop sent a letter of application to the National Universities Commission in 1992, requesting to be a Private University in Nigeria.

Though he wasn’t given the license to run a full-fledged University, he obtained license to be a continuing Education center. His school was then called Christian Faith University Institute of Continuous Learning (now Benson Idahosa University), and awarded only Diploma certificates.

In 1997, the school affiliated with Ambrose Alli University, Ekpoma, to award Degree programmes.

Five years later, in 2002, following the National Universities Commission’s permission to allow the school operate as a University, Benson Idahosa’s mandate to establish a University was finally achieved.

Ever since then, the University’s mission has been to raise leaders for the nation, who are complete in spirit, mind, and body, thus contributing to the production of high-level leadership and quality manpower for the nation and the world.

Benson Idahosa University Ranking From Different Sources

FURTHER READING:

• Benson Idahosa University Courses and Requirements
• Benson Idahosa University Post UTME Form
• Benson Idahosa University School Fees Schedule
• Benson Idahosa University News

27. Elizade University

At a Glance:

• School Location: Wuraola Adeojo Street Ilara-Mokin, Ondo State
• Year Established: 2012
• School Fees: N740,000 -N1,650,000
• Founder: Michael Ade-Ojo (Businessman)
• USP: Classrooms and lecture halls are equipped with modern multi-media gadget to make learning interesting and enjoyable

The Elizade University is a brain child of an illustrious Nigerian, Chief Michael Ade.Ojo, born on June 14, 1938 at Ilara-Mokin in Ondo State, Nigeria.

The University, which took off in January, 2013 with 64 students, 13 programmes and two Faculties, has experienced all-round geometric increase.

At the mid-term review of the rapid progress made by the University, the institution had a total of twenty-five (25) fully accredited programmes in the Faculties of Basic and Applied Sciences, Engineering, Humanities, Social and Management Sciences and Law, with about 1,500 students in the 2020/2021 Academic Session.

The University has also mounted seven (7) additional undergraduate programmes — Nursing Science, Medical Laboratory Science, Political Science, Sociology, Architecture, Quantity Surveying and Estate Managemen.

The National Universities Commission (NUC) has given the University approval to run 15 Postgraduate programmes, both at M.Sc. and Ph.D. levels.

Elizade University has signed Memoranda of Understanding (MoU) with some top Universities across the world. Prominent among these is the ORT Braude College of Engineering, Israel, where they send their students for a 3-month intensive practical training in selected programmes.

Elizade University Ranking From Different Sources

FURTHER READING:

• Elizade University Courses and Requirements
• Elizade University Post UTME Form
• Elizade University School Fees Schedule
• Elizade University News

28. Kings University

At a Glance:

• School Location: Gbongan-Osogbo Road; Odeomu, Osun State
• Year Established: 2015
• School Fees: N606,000 – ₦736,000
• Founder: Pastor Matthew Ashimolowo (owner of Kingsway International Christian Church)
• USP: Students are enrolled for entrepreneurial courses, business training and practical skills acquisition

Kings University was granted a provisional license by the Federal Government of Nigeria through the National Universities Commission on March 4, 2015, and commenced academic activities on February 1, 2016.

The University was founded by King’s Ministries Trust A.K.A. Kingsway International Christian Centre (KICC), a Protestant Evangelical Ministry.

Academic Programmes at Kings University took off at the temporary site of the University located at Oshogbo Road, with adequate human, physical and material resources. At inception in 2016, the number of academic and non-academic staff is 67, while the first set of matriculated students were 88.

As a faith-based institution, Kings University is committed to helping students grow in Christ-likeness. Their staff is also expected to be servant-leaders in the course of all interactions with students and to exhibit leadership values of compassion, humility, and discipline.

The University’s vision is to raise quality leaders and their goal is to enhance holistic education for social, economic, cultural development and self-reliance.

Kings University Ranking From Different Sources

FURTHER READING:

• Kings University Courses and Requirements
• Kings University Post UTME Form
• Kings University School Fees Schedule
• Kings University News

29. Caleb University

At a Glance:

• School Location: Ikorodu, Imota, Lagos State
• Year Established: 2007
• School Fees: N400,000 – N500,000
• Founder: Prince Oladega Adebogun (Philanthropist)
• USP: Ranked among the top 10 most sought-after private Universities in Nigeria

Caleb University, founded by Dr. Ola Adebogun was given a license by the Federal Government of Nigeria to operate as a private University on May 17, 2007.

In 2008, exactly eight (8) months after its approval, the university commenced its academic activities at Ikosi GRA before moving to its permanent site, Imota Lagos, in 2009.

Since its inception, the University has produced 11 sets of graduates who have been mobilized in succession for the one-year mandatory National Youth Service Scheme.

The University which started with just three (3) colleges — College of Environmental and Management Sciences, College of Pure and Applied Sciences, and College of Social and Management Sciences, now has a total of six (6) colleges, all of which are duly accredited.

With a mission to provide opportunities for a globally competitive education and research in a Godly environment, the school prides itself as one of the most affordable private universities in Nigeria.

Caleb University Ranking From Different Sources

FURTHER READING:

• Caleb University Courses and Requirements
• Caleb University Post UTME Form
• Caleb University School Fees Schedule
• Caleb University News

30. Edwin Clark University

At a Glance:

• School Location: Ughelli, Kiagbodo, Delta State
• Year Established: 2015
• School Fees: N250,000 – N690,000
• Founder: Edwin Clark (Nigerian Politician)
• USP: Affordable

Approved in May 2015, Edwin Clark University became the 60th University in Nigeria, located in Kiagbodo, Burutu Local Government Area of Delta State.

The University owned by the Edwin Kiagbodo Clark Foundation, a not for profit organization founded by Chief (Dr) Edwin Kiagbodo Clark.

With a mission of Nurturing of knowledge targeted towards addressing the developmental challenges of the Niger Delta in particular, and the wider global community as a whole, the University commenced academic activities on 14^th September, 2015.

While they started with just 100 students, the school now has 1000+ graduates.

Even though the is one of the lowest fee paying universities in Nigeria, their school fees can still be paid in instalments.

In Janaury 2022, the University celebrated emerging the 32nd University in Nigeria, according to National University Commission’s ranking.

Edwin Clark University Ranking From Different Sources

FURTHER READING:

• Edwin Clark University Courses and Requirements
• Edwin Clark University Post UTME Form
• Edwin Clark University School Fees
• Edwin Clark University News

Conclusion

There you have it! We have given you the top 30 private universities in Nigeria.

If you are looking for the best private university in Nigeria and have the funds, then Covenant University is the right choice for you.

However, if you like most Nigerians, are on a budget but still want to study at a top Nigerian University, then you should consider Adeleke University.

Frequently Asked Questions And Answers

References:

• Private Universities in Nigeria, NUC
• Top Universities in Nigeria, Webometrics
• Top Private Universities In Nigeria, 4icu.org
• Institution individual websites

Disclaimer:

• Names, acronyms, and logos displayed on this page are those of their respective owners.
• School Fees on this page are rounded and sometimes excludes accommodation. The exact fee depends on the course.
• Most Unique Selling Points (USP) on this page were gotten from the school’s individual site.
• Allschool is not affiliated with any of the schools mentioned above.

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