Nigeria is home to fifty (50) federal institutions that provide access to various courses and degree programs. Federal universities are institutions that are owned and managed by the Federal Government.
We compiled a list of the federal universities in Nigeria and considered significant factors such as academic programs, reputation, international rankings, academic quality, facilities, student support services, faculty, and overall excellence.
Additionally, we surveyed students in these universities to create our list of the 50 best federal universities in Nigeria. It is important to note that the federal universities listed below have achieved the highest levels of success over many years of hard work before we present them as the best federal institutions in Nigeria.
The List of Best Federal Universities in Nigeria by World Ranking
| Nigerian Rank | Federal University | State | Year Founded | World Ranking |
| 1 | University of Ibadan | Oyo | 1948 | 1129 |
| 2 | Obafemi Awolowo University | Osun | 1961 | 1317 |
| 3 | University of Port Harcourt | Port Harcourt | 1975 | 1391 |
| 4 | University of Nigeria, NSUKKA | Enugu | 1955 | 1438 |
| 5 | University of Lagos | Lagos | 1962 | 1560 |
| 6 | Ahmadu Bello university | Kaduna | 1962 | 2002 |
| 7 | Federal University of Technology, Akure | Ondo | 1981 | 2104 |
| 8 | Federal University of Technology, Minna | Niger | 1983 | 2316 |
| 9 | Bayero University Kano | Kano | 1975 | 2587 |
| 10 | Nnamdi Azikiwe University | Anambra | 1993 | 2851 |
| 11 | University of Calabar | Cross River | 1975 | 2902 |
| 12 | Federal Univeersity, Oye-Ekiti | Ekiti | 2011 | 3146 |
| 13 | University of Ilorin | Kwara | 1975 | 3215 |
| 14 | Federal University of Technology, Owerri | Imo | 1980 | 3290 |
| 15 | University of Uyo | Akwa Ibom | 1991 | 3401 |
| 16 | University of Jos | Plateau | 1975 | 3418 |
| 17 | Federal University Dutse | Jigawa | 2011 | 3520 |
| 18 | University of Abuja | FCT | 1988 | 3839 |
| 19 | Usmanu Danfodiyo University | Sokoto | 1975 | 3946 |
| 20 | Federal University of Petroleum Resources EEffurun | Delta | 2007 | 4144 |
| 21 | Modibbo Adama University of Technology, Yola | Adamawa | 1981 | 4795 |
| 22 | University of Maiduguri | Borno | 1975 | 4937 |
| 23 | Federal University Lokoja | Kogi | 2011 | 4999 |
| 24 | Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University | Bauchi | 1988 | 5086 |
| 25 | Federal National Open University | Lagos | 2022 | 5265 |
| 26 | Federal University of Agriculture, Makurdi | Benue | 1988 | 5473 |
| 27 | Michael Okpara University of Agriculture Umudike | Abia | 1992 | 5558 |
| 28 | Federal University Kashere Gombe | Gombe | 2011 | 6714 |
| 29 | Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta | Ogun | 1988 | 6736 |
| 30 | Federal University Lafia | Nasarawa | 2011 | 6847 |
| 31 | Nigerian Defence Academy, Kaduna | Kaduna | 1985 | 7756 |
| 32 | Federal University Gusau | Zamfara | 2013 | 14021 |
| 33 | University of Benin | Edo | 1970 | 15813 |
| 34 | Federal University of Agriculture, Zuru | Kebbi | 2020 | 23377 |
| 35 | Federal University of Health Technology, Otukpo | Benue | 2020 | 24881 |
| 36 | Federal University of Technology, Babura | Jigawa | 2021 | |
| 37 | Federal University of Health Sciences, Ila Orangun | Osun | 2021 | |
| 38 | Federal University of Technology, Ikot Abasi | Akwa Ibom | 2022 | |
| 39 | Federal University of Transportation, Daura | Katsina | 2022 | |
| 40 | Federal University of Health Sciences, Azare | Bauch | 2021 | |
| 41 | Nigeria Maritime University | Delta | 2018 |
How We Reviewed the Best Federal Universities in Nigeria
As a team, we understand the importance of finding the best institution for tertiary education. With so many universities in Nigeria, making an informed decision can be quite challenging. That’s why we took the time to review the best federal universities in Nigeria, using various criteria to evaluate each institution.
Our evaluation process was thorough and extensive. We began by analyzing the academic programs offered by each university and evaluating their accreditation. We also assessed the quality of teaching by reviewing the qualifications and experience of the faculty members and their teaching methodologies. We also considered the student-to-faculty ratio to determine the level of personalized attention each student would receive.
Infrastructure was another crucial factor we considered. We assessed the state of each university’s facilities, including libraries, laboratories, classrooms, housing, transportation, and healthcare facilities. We also examined the level of security on each campus and the availability of recreational activities.
Affordability was also a crucial consideration in our evaluation. We compared the cost of attending each university with the quality of education and facilities they provide. Our goal was to identify universities that balance affordability and quality education well.
In addition to these criteria, we also considered each university’s notable alumni. We looked at successful individuals who have graduated from each institution and their impact in their respective fields. We believe that the success of alumni is a testament to the quality of education each university provides.
Our review process was extensive and unbiased. By reading our comprehensive review of the best federal universities in Nigeria, you’ll have all the information you need to make an informed decision about your future education.
What is the Cheapest Federal University in Nigeria?
The Ahmadu Bello Institution, formerly known as the University of Northern Nigeria, is Nigeria’s most affordable federal university. It was established in 1962 and is the largest university in Sub-Saharan Africa.
Are Federal Universities Better than State Universities?
The answer to this depends on the factor you are considering. Federal universities are better than state universities if you are looking at factors such as tuition fees and some necessary facilities. However, admission to federal universities is often difficult due to the many applicants.
Are Federal Universities Less Expensive than State Universities?
Federal universities are less expensive than state-owned universities. In Nigeria, a typical federal university charges 25,000 Naira per semester in tuition fees, while state universities may cost up to 200,000 Naira, which is way more expensive.
How many Federal Universities are in Nigeria?
According to Statista, there are 43 federal universities out of a total of 170 universities in Nigeria. Private universities account for 79, while state universities account for 48.
Do federal universities Charge Tuition fees?
Yes, federal universities charge tuition fees, but they are relatively low compared to the fees of state and private universities.
Conclusion
Federal Universities offer world-class education to students and provide a conducive environment for learning. One major disadvantage of federal universities is that they can strike, which usually affects the academic calendar.
Asides from the strike, federal universities are top-notch and very affordable though this makes them very competitive too. If you are looking for affordable, top-notch educational services and superb facilities, consider the federal universities on this list.
However, you can consider private universities if you want a university with fast education that is less competitive.