Accredited Federal Universities in Nigeria 2022/2023
– Federal Universities in Nigeria –
Are you an aspiring student who wishes to enter any of the Accredited Federal Universities in Nigeria? Then this article will provide you with all the information you need.
In Nigeria, the Federal Government establishes Federal Universities to meet the various educational needs of the country.
Also, we have the Federal Universities of Technology, Federal Universities of Agriculture and Federal Universities of Education. Also, the NUC oversees everything that is related to course accreditation and general regulations.
The NUC ensures there are uniformity and standards among the universities in Nigeria and sets the admissions capacity of every university in Nigeria to follow.
Also, for you to enter any federal university, you need to pass their jamb cut off mark and also pass their post UTME examination or screening.
Why are Federal Accredited Universities the Best?
First, Federal universities in Nigeria are the most affordable tertiary institutions. They have low tuition fees, low to minimal levels of extortion, corruption, and malpractice.
Also, one reason the school fees in Federal universities are low is that the Federal Government is subsidizing tuition fees. Making the tuition fees almost free for students.
Moreover, apart from low school fees, students who graduated from Federal Universities in Nigeria tend to get high respect than those who attended private schools or state schools.
The Federal universities have more infrastructural facilities compared to the state-owned universities; they have essential facilities such as an amphitheatre, auditorium, lecture theatres, and well-equipped library. Which also makes learning conducive.
Also, Federal universities no doubt comprise the best brain and well-known lecturers compared to state universities; the likes of Prof. Wole Soyinka, Achebe and other scholars have tutored in one federal university or the other.
In addition, Federal Universities admit more students, especially from different cultural backgrounds, compared to State Universities. Therefore, this leads to the continuous expansion of cultures, beliefs, and values.
List of Accredited Federal Universities in Nigeria
Here is the list of federal universities in Nigeria:
1. University of Ibadan (UI)
The University of Ibadan (UI) is the first University in the western part of Nigeria. The University laid its foundation in 1948. It stood independently in 1962. However, prior to this year, it was affiliated with the College University of London.
The University of Ibadan (UI) holds different academic programmes in 16 faculties. Also, the University of Ibadan meets the needs of society and students by creating an appropriate environment suitable to learn and research.
Also, the National Universities Commission (NUC) accredits the university.
2. University of Lagos (UNILAG)
The University of Lagos laid its foundation in the year 1962. The University of Lagos presently serves above 40,000 college students from 131 in inception.
Also, UNILAG isn’t just a home for academic geniuses, it’s a centre of attraction. The University of Lagos which is located in Lagos state, is where the brains, of important Nigerian figures and elites, emerged.
The University offers courses for undergraduates, postgraduates, and master’s and doctorate degree students. Also, it is among the accredited federal universities in Nigeria. Also, the National Universities Commission (NUC) accredits the university.
They also have 12 faculties namely; Arts, Basic Medical Sciences, Management Sciences, Clinical Sciences, Dental Sciences, Education, Engineering, Environmental Sciences, Law, Pharmacy, Science, and Social Sciences.
3. University of Ilorin (UNILORIN)
UNILORIN is in Ilorin, Kwara capital, Nigeria. The University laid its foundation during the military degree in August 1975. Also, The University have Approximately 4,474 staff and offers 90 courses in 15 faculties.
However, If you embrace the slogan that says education is the best legacy, then you can really understand this when you consider the University of Ilorin.
4. Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria (ABU)
The Ahmadu Bello University(ABU) is based in Zaria. The University laid its foundation on the 4th of October 1962.
The NUC ranked ABU as one of the top 10 best federal universities in Nigeria, which has 16 faculties and research institutes. Also, it has 99 departments and three agricultural colleges.
However, the ABU came into the limelight in the 1970s as it produced over 2,333 first degree students. And ever since, consistent educational success has been the reputation of Ahmadu Bello University.
Ahmadu Bello University is a federal university that imparts knowledge and establishes moral standards for all students. At Ahmadu Bello University, you will find learning easy and a highly productive experience.
5. Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU)
The Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU) is known as the University of Ife. The school stands out till this day, with over 30,000 students. The institution began with Five faculties and 224 students.
Also, the popular OAU desires value for African integrity, culture and traditions, to build up patriotic minds for society.
However, when you consider OAU as your choice for your tertiary education, you will have an awesome learning experience as it is the largest university in Nigeria.
Also, it is approved by the National University Commission(NUC) with accredited standard facilities.
6. University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN)
The University of Nigeria, Nsukka(UNN) is in Enugu and was founded by Nnamdi Azikiwe in the year 1955. It started duties officially in 1960.
Also, the institution provides 82 undergraduate courses and 211 courses for postgraduate students, respectively. However, it has 102 Departments in 15 Faculties.
When looking for one of the best federal Universities, consider the University of Nigeria(UNN) as your first choice.
7. The Federal University of Technology, Minna
The University laid its the foundation on the 1st of February 1983. Graduates from FUTMinna are equipped within the technology sphere in Nigeria.
However, In 1990, FUTMinna produced only 22 graduates. In the year 1998, it increased to 662. Now Students enrolled in the institution exceed over 13,000.
8. Federal University of Technology, (FUTA), Akure
The Federal University of Technology, Akure(FUTA), is in Ondo State, Nigeria. The University laid its foundation in 1981.
FUTA’s main aim is to produce highly oriented students in Science and Technology. Courses available at the University are over 50 Educational Departments in FUTA. Also, the National Universities Commission (NUC) accredits the university.
However, in case you looking to add value to your technological knowledge, FUTA is the best choice for you.
9. University of Benin (UNIBEN)
The University of Benin, is fondly referred to as UNIBEN. The University laid its foundation in 1970, in Benin City, Nigeria. it’s a research University created with the sole aim to better society by developing a conducive academic environment for Nigerian students.
Interestingly, the organization began as an institute of technology. And began independent operation in 1971.
However, on 1st April 1975, the government took over the school, and it became a federal university. The University of Benin has 14 faculties.
Interestingly, over 40,000 students are studying in school. The school’s aim is to increase quality education in Nigeria and extrapolate the potential of Nigerian youths.
Through the years, the excellence of UNIBEN continues to grow. Also, the National Universities Commission (NUC) accredits the university.
10. Federal University, Oye Ekiti (FUOYE)
The Federal University, Oye Ekiti, is known as FUOYE. The University laid its foundation in 2011; it is on Aare Afro Road in Ekiti.
It has its campuses at Oye and Ikole. Also, the Federal University Oye Ekiti has over 11,000 students and about 10,800 undergraduate students. Also, the National Universities Commission (NUC) accredits the university.
The Federal University, Oye Ekiti offers courses in 53 departments in 7 faculties which are Engineering, Agriculture, Arts and Humanities, Science, Education, Management, Social Sciences.
However, if you’re looking for an academic environment for the best learning experience, consider FUOYE today.
11. Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University
ATBU (Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University) is a Federal University of Technology in Bauchi, Nigeria’s northeast.
The university’s name was from Sir Abubakar Tafawa Balewa, the first Prime Minister of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. Interestingly, “Doctrina Mater Artium,” the university’s motto, means “Education is the Mother of the Practical Arts.”
The Federal University of Technology, Bauchi, laid its foundation in 1980. However, the University admitted the first students to the college in October 1981 for pre-degree and remedial programs, and the School of Science and Science Education began offering degree programs in October 1982.
Interestingly, the university united with Ahmadu Bello University in Zaria, Nigeria, on October 1, 1984, and was renamed Abubakar Tafawa Balewa College, Ahmadu Bello University.
Following a sweeping of such organizations, the university regained its autonomy in 1988. After then, the university name was changed Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University, Bauchi.
12. Bayero University, Kano
With nearly 30,000 students and 4,000 staff, Bayero University Kano (BUK) is Nigeria’s major academic institution for cultural studies.
BUK was previously known as Abdullahi Bayero College. The University laid its foundation in 1964 and later changed to Bayero University Kano (BUK) in 1975.
However, since its inception, the university has been a faculty of Ahmadu Bello University, and it became entirely independent in 1980. The National Universities Commission has also shortlisted the University as one of eight best universities (NUC).
13. Federal University Gashua, Yobe
Federal Institution Gashua (FUGashua) is a Nigerian university in Yobe State. It is a learning and research organization that aims to meet society’s immediate demands and provide every individual with the opportunity to study.
However, President Goodluck Jonathan created the university in 2013. He did this in order to provide higher education to every Nigerian state and to ensure that all states have equal access to education. Also, the National Universities Commission (NUC) accredits the university.
Also, Yobe State is one of the most educationally disadvantaged states in the country, with low school enrollment and a high percentage of illiteracy.
14. Federal University of Petroleum Resources, Effurun
The Federal University of Petroleum Resources Effurun (FUPRE) is in Delta State, Nigeria. The University laid its foundation and got approved during a meeting of the Federal Executive Council on March 14, 2007, and began accepting undergraduate students in 2008.
However, the University was founded as part of the Nigerian government’s ambition to develop a specialized university in the Niger Delta to produce people and knowledge for the oil and gas industry.
Also, the National Universities Commission (NUC) permitted the Petroleum Training Institute (PTI), Effurun and the Federal University of Petroleum Resources Effurun to share facilities until the latter moved to its permanent home in Ugbomro, Uvwie Local Government Area Delta State, in 2010.
15. Federal University of Technology, Owerri
The Federal University of Technology Owerri (FUTO) is a federal government university located in Owerri West, Nigeria’s capital.
Interestingly, the communities of Eziobodo, Umuchima, Ihiagwa, and Obinze surround the campus. It is Nigeria’s most prestigious the Federal University of Technology in the southeast and south-south regions.
Also, the institution is Nigeria’s oldest university of technology. In addition, The University laid its foundation in 1980 by executive fiat, with Nigeria’s first Executive President, Shehu Shagari, forming and appointing the first provisional council.
However, it was the first of three such universities established by Nigeria’s Federal Government, which aimed to build a University of Technology in each geopolitical zone, particularly in states without a traditional university.
16. Federal University, Dutse, Jigawa State
The Federal University of Dutse (FUD) is one of the nine universities established by Nigeria’s federal government in 2011. Also, both undergraduate and graduate degrees are available at FUD.
On January 16, 2016, the Federal University of Dutse (FUD) held its first convocation event.
Professor Jibirilla Dahiru Aminu (OFR), the university’s pioneer vice-chancellor, stated during his speech at the convocation event that the university received an overall score of over 80% in the National Council of Universities’ assessment of facilities and academic effectiveness.
17. Federal University, Dutsin-Ma, Katsina
Federal University, Dutsin-Ma, laid its foundation in 2011 as a non-profit public higher education school in the city of Dutsin-Ma, Katsina.
Also, Federal University, Dutsin-Ma (FUDMA) is a coeducational higher education institution that is officially accredited and recognized by the Nigerian National Universities Commission.
FUDMA (Federal University of Dutsin-Ma) offers a variety of courses and programs that lead to officially recognized higher education degrees in a variety of fields.
18. Federal University, Kashere, Gombe State
Federal University, Kashere was founded in 2011 as a non-profit public higher education school in Kashere, Gombe.
Also, Federal University, Kashere (FUK) is a coeducational higher education institution that is officially accredited and/or recognized by the Nigerian National Universities Commission.
However, in a variety of fields of study, Federal University, Kashere (FUK) offers courses and programs leading to officially approved higher education degrees.
19. Federal University, Lafia, Nasarawa State
The Federal University, Lafia, formerly known as the Federal University of Lafia, is a newly established university in Lafia, the capital of Nasarawa State.
It was established in 2010 by the Goodluck Jonathan administration as one of nine new federal universities established across Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones.
Also, in September 2012, the university has begun academic operations with a new class of students who were the first to be instructed by the University Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Ekanem Ikpi Braide.
However, Prof. Shehu Abdulrahaman, the third Vice-Chancellor of the Federal University of Lafia, was appointed by the current President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Major General Muhammadu Buhari, GCFR (RTD).
20. Federal University, Lokoja, Kogi State
The Federal University is a public university in Lokoja, the capital of Kogi State in northern Nigeria; located at the confluence of the Niger and Benue rivers.
However, the Federal Government of Nigeria founded FULokoja in February 2011 in response to the country’s urgent need for more institutions.
21. Alex Ekwueme University, Ndufu-Alike, Ebonyi State
The Alex Ekwueme Federal University Ndufu Alike Ikwo (AE-FUNAI) is a Nigerian higher education institution in Ndufu, Alike Ikwo, in the state of Ebonyi.
The University laid its foundation in 2011. However, it was formerly known as Federal University Ndufu Alike Ikwo until February 2nd, 2018, when the Federal Government renamed it after Dr Alex Ekwueme, the late civilian Vice President of Nigeria.
Interestingly, the University is situated on 438 hectares of land. The University has a student population of 10,000 and a faculty population of 2,230.
22. Federal University, Otuoke, Bayelsa
The Federal University of Otuoke is a federal government-owned university located in Otuoke, a town in Bayelsa State’s Ogbia local government area.
Also, the institution is one of nine new Federal Universities established by the Federal Government of Nigeria in February 2011 under President Dr Goodluck Jonathan’s administration.
The institution opened its doors in 2011 with 282 first-year students. Interestingly, the university now has six faculties and offers undergraduate degree programs.
Undergraduate programs in Science, Management Science, Social Science and Humanities, Education, Engineering and Technology are available at the university. Sustainable Public Procurement is a partner of the institution.
23. Federal University, Wukari, Taraba State
The Federal Institution of Wukari (FUWUKARI) is a federal university in Nigeria, with its headquarters in Wukari, Taraba State.
Also, The National Universities Commission (NUC) of Nigeria has officially certified and recognized Federal University, Wukari.
24. Federal University, Birnin Kebbi
Birnin Kebbi Federal University is a university in Birnin Kebbi, Kebbi State, Nigeria. The Federal Republic of Nigeria established the Federal University of Birnin-Kebbi (FUBK) on February 18, 2013.
Also, it was under the leadership of President GoodLuck Ebele Jonathan, GCFR and under the government’s policy of establishing a Federal University in states that lacked one across the federation.
Professor Lawal Suleiman Bilbis, a biochemist was the university’s first Vice-Chancellor. While Ibrahim Abubakar Mungadi, FCAI, was the Registrar.
25. Federal University, Gusau Zamfara
The only university in Zamfara State is Federal University, Gusau. Zamfara is a major state in northwestern Nigeria, and it is one of the country’s largest.
Also, the institution, which was created in 2013, ensures to provide high-quality education and supports creativity for its students.
In addition, the university has a low admissions rate, but it is competitive. Students of different ages and religions from all across the country.
26. Michael Okpara University of Agricultural Umudike
The Michael Okpara University of Agriculture, formerly known as the Federal University of Agriculture, is a federal university in Umudike, Abia State, Nigeria.
However, it became a specialized university in November 1992 by the Federal Government of Nigeria Decree No 48.
It began formal operations in May 1993, with the appointment of the first Council and Vice-Chancellor, Professor Placid C. Njoku, on May 27, 1993, followed by the appointment of other key University officials.
27. Modibbo Adama University of Technology, Yola
The Modibbo Adama University of Technology (MAUTECH), originally known as the Federal University of Technology, Yola, is a Nigerian university located in Yola, Adamawa State.
Also, the National Universities Commission (NUC) of Nigeria has officially certified and recognized the Modibbo Adama University of Technology.
28. National Open University of Nigeria, Lagos
On July 22, 1983, the university was founded as a springboard for open and online learning in Nigeria. On the 25th of April in 1984, the government suspended it. Also, the National Universities Commission (NUC) accredits the university.
Interestingly, the previous President of Nigeria, the person of Gen. Olusegun Obasanjo, began resuscitation efforts on April 12, in the year 2001. Also, the university’s pioneer student enrollment was 32,400 at the time of its launch.
Professor Abdalla Uba Adamu transferred the institution to its permanent headquarters in Jabi, Abuja, in 2016, it functioned from its administrative headquarters in Victoria Island, Lagos.
Also, the university has approximately 75 study centers around the country.
29. Nigerian Defence Academy Kadu
The Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA) is a military academy in Kaduna, Nigeria, that prepares officer cadets for commissioning in one of the Nigerian Armed Forces’ three services: Army, Navy, or Air Force.
NDA started in February 1964 as a reformation of the British governed Royal Military Forces Training College (RMFTC), which had been renamed the Nigerian Military Training College (NMTC) upon independence.
Also, the military institution trains the officer corps of the Nigerian Army, Navy and Air Force.
30. Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka
The Nnamdi Azikiwe Institution, Awka, often known as UNIZIK or NAU, is a Nigerian federal university. In Anambra State, there are two campuses.
Its main campus is in Awka (the state capital of Anambra), while the other campus is in Nnewi.
Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka has more campuses. In Anambra State, these include Agulu in the Aniocha local government area and Ifite-Ogwuari in the Ayamelum local government area.
However, it is one of the federal universities that the National Universities Commission oversees and accredits. The university’s name honours DR. Nnamdi Azikiwe.
31. University of Abuja, Gwagwalada
The Institution of Abuja (UNIABUJA) is a Nigerian federal university located in Abuja, the country’s capital.
Also, the National Universities Commission (NUC) of Nigeria has officially certified and recognized the University of Abuja.
32. Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta
The Federal University of Agriculture Abeokuta, Ogun State, laid its foundation on January 1, 1988. This was after the Federal university has four institutions of technology that had previously united in 1984.
As a result, it established the first two agricultural universities at Abeokuta and Makurdi. However, Professor Nurudeen Olorun-Nimbe Adedipe was named the university’s first Vice-Chancellor on the same day.
Professor Adedipe began his duties on January 28, 1988. Also, following a review of the university’s founding instrument, the council decided in its 53rd statutory meeting in June 2010 to restore the university’s formation date to January 1, 1988, as required by law.
33. University of Agriculture, Makurdi
The University of Agriculture, Makurdi (UAM) is a Nigerian institution of higher learning located in Makurdi, Benue State. It laid its foundation in 1988.
Also, the university is following the recommendations of a 1987 federal government White Paper on Higher Education Curriculum and Development in Nigeria.
34. University of Calabar
The University of Calabar is a Nigerian public university located in Calabar, Cross River State. It is one of Nigeria’s federal universities of the second generation. Until 1975, the University of Calabar was a University of Nigeria campus.
Florence B. Obi is the Vice-Chancellor. Angela Oyo Ita is the DVC (Academic), while Michal Okom is the DVC (Communications) (Administration). Interestingly, John Elliott created the building’s architecture.
35. University of Jos
The University of Jos laid its foundation in November 1971. The University emanated through the University of Ibadan’s satellite campus.
Also, the university started admitting pre- degree Students in January 1972, and the first Bachelor of Arts degree program began in October 1973.
However, UNIJOS became a separate entity in October 1975 by the then-military administration of General Murtala Mohammed.
Interestingly, Professor Gilbert Onuaguluchi was the first Vice-Chancellor of the UNIJOS. Also, In October 1976, 575 students moved to the university. The university had four faculties and n 1977, the school added post-graduate programs.
36. University of Maiduguri
The University of Maiduguri (UNIMAID) is a federal higher education institution in Maiduguri, Borno State’s capital city in northeast Nigeria.
However, in 1975 the University laid its foundation through the Nigerian federal government with the goal of becoming one of the country’s major higher education institutions.
37. University of Port-Harcourt
The University of Port Harcourt is a federal university in Nigeria located in Rivers State. In 1975, the university laid its foundation.
Also, Students at the university come from various religions, cultures, and age groups. The university is incredibly inexpensive, with tuition that is affordable to all Nigerians.
Additionally, the University of Port Harcourt provides a variety of degree programs in science, social sciences, engineering, and other fields.
There is a library, hostels, roads, and other good infrastructure such as college buildings at the university.
38. University of Uyo
The University of Uyo is located in Uyo, the capital of Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria. Cross River State University was the university’s name. However, the Federal Government of Nigeria designated it as a Federal University on October 1, 1991, and the university changed its name to the University of Uyo.
Also, the University inherited the students, personnel, academic programs and all the facilities of the former University of Cross River State.
39. Usumanu Danfodiyo University
The Usmanu Danfodiyo University, Sokoto (UDUS), also known as UDUSOK is a public research university in the city of Sokoto, northwestern Part of Nigeria.
It became one of the first twelve institutions the federal government established in Nigeria in 1975.
Also, the university got its name after the famous Usman dan Fodio, the founder of the Sokoto Caliphate.
Udusok is a four-year, five-year, and six-year university that also offers associate degrees and remedial programs. The university offers a traditional medical program and a teaching hospital.
There are three campuses at the Usmanu Danfodiyo University. These three campuses include, Agriculture, Arts & Languages, Education, engineering, Law, sciences, Social Sciences, Center for Peace Studies, and Center for Energy Research and training are all on the main campus.
However, the main campus also houses the university senate, the main library complex (Abdullahi Fodiyo Library Complex), and the School of Postgraduate Studies.
40. Nigerian Maritime University Okerenkoko, Delta State
The Federal Government of Nigeria established and owns the Nigerian Maritime University (NMU), which is based in Okerenkoko with a satellite campus in the Kurutie Warri South-West Local Government Area of Delta State.
Also, the National Universities Commission (NUC) of Nigeria has officially accredited and recognized NMU.
42. Nigerian Army University Biu
The Nigerian Army University Biu (NAUB) is a public Nigerian university in Biu, Borno State. The Nigerian Army University was set up in 2018.
It is a Nigerian Army research higher institution for innovation and technology.
43. Nigeria Police Academy Wudil
Wudil, Kano State, is home to the Nigerian Police Academy (NPA).
In 1988, the Nigerian Police Academy began operations with two temporary campuses: the Police Training School Challawa in Kano, where cadet Inspectors were taught, and the Police college Kaduna is where cadet ASPs trained.
Also, on April 2, 1996. The two campuses moved to their permanent site in Wudil, Kano.
In conclusion, federal universities are the best when trying to consider any institution in Nigeria. It is affordable, conducive and multicultural.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What are the cheapest universities in Nigeria?
The cheapest Universities are the University of Calabar (UNICAL), the University of Abuja (UNIABUJA), Usmanu Danfodiyo University (UDUSOK), and the National Open University (NOUN).
2. What is the age limit to go to a university in Nigeria?
The minimum age limit set for admission into universities or any other higher institutions of learning in Nigeria is 16 years.
3. Which is the best federal university in Nigeria, and why?
The University of Lagos (UNILAG) is the best federal university in Nigeria. This is because NUC accredits it.
4. How do one gain admission into Nigeria Universities?
By writing the JAMB examination and also meeting the school’s cut off mark to enable you to participate in their Post UMTE screening or exams.
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