List of Federal Universities in Nigeria

Nigeria boasts a robust and diverse higher education system, with federal universities in Nigeria forming the cornerstone of academic excellence and national development. These institutions are funded and regulated by the Federal Government through the National Universities Commission (NUC). Strategically located across the country’s six geopolitical zones, federal universities in Nigeria offer affordable, quality education to millions of students in various disciplines — from science and technology to arts, education, and social sciences.

This article provides a complete list of all accredited federal universities in Nigeria, including their official website addresses (where available) and year established. Whether you're a prospective student, parent, researcher, or policymaker, this resource will help you stay informed about Nigeria’s federal tertiary education offerings.

List of Federal Universities in Nigeria

Based on the data from the National Universities Commission (NUC) webpage, here is a comprehensive list of all federal universities in Nigeria:
 

1. Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University, Bauchi (Est. 1988) - https://www.atbu.edu.ng

2. Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria (Est. 1962) - https://www.abu.edu.ng

3. Bayero University, Kano (Est. 1975) - https://www.buk.edu.ng

4. Federal University Gashua, Yobe (Est. 2013) - https://www.fugashua.edu.ng

5. Federal University of Petroleum Resources, Effurun (Est. 2007) - https://www.fupre.edu.ng

6. Federal University of Technology, Akure (Est. 1981) - https://www.futa.edu.ng

7. Federal University of Technology, Minna (Est. 1982) - https://www.futminna.edu.ng

8. Federal University of Technology, Owerri (Est. 1980) - https://www.futo.edu.ng

9. Federal University, Dutse, Jigawa State (Est. 2011) - https://www.fud.edu.ng

10. Federal University, Dutsin-Ma, Katsina (Est. 2011) - https://www.fudutsinma.edu.ng

11. Federal University, Kashere, Gombe State (Est. 2011) - https://www.fukashere.edu.ng

12. Federal University, Lafia, Nasarawa State (Est. 2011) - https://www.fulafia.edu.ng

13. Federal University, Lokoja, Kogi State (Est. 2011) - https://www.fulokoja.edu.ng

14. Alex Ekwueme Federal University, Ndufu-Alike, Ebonyi State (Est. 2011) - https://www.funai.edu.ng

15. Federal University, Otuoke, Bayelsa (Est. 2011) - https://www.fuotuoke.edu.ng

16. Federal University, Oye-Ekiti, Ekiti State (Est. 2011) - https://www.fuoye.edu.ng

17. Federal University, Wukari, Taraba State (Est. 2011) - https://www.fuwukari.edu.ng

18. Federal University, Birnin Kebbi (Est. 2013) - https://www.fubk.edu.ng

19. Federal University, Gusau, Zamfara (Est. 2013) - https://www.fugusau.edu.ng

20. Michael Okpara University of Agriculture, Umudike (Est. 1992) - https://www.mouau.edu.ng

21. Modibbo Adama University of Technology, Yola (Est. 1981) - https://www.mautech.edu.ng

22. National Open University of Nigeria, Abuja (Est. 2002) - https://www.nou.edu.ng

23. Nigeria Police Academy, Wudil (Est. 2013) - https://polac.edu.ng

24. Nigerian Defence Academy, Kaduna (Est. 1985) - https://www.nda.edu.ng

25. Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka (Est. 1992) - https://www.unizik.edu.ng

26. Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife (Est. 1962) - https://www.oauife.edu.ng

27. University of Abuja, Gwagwalada (Est. 1988) - https://www.uniabuja.edu.ng

28. Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta (Est. 1988) - https://www.unaab.edu.ng

29. Joseph Sarwuan Tarka University, Makurdi (Est. 1988) - https://www.uam.edu.ng

30. University of Benin (Est. 1970) - https://www.uniben.edu.ng

31. University of Calabar (Est. 1975) - https://www.unical.edu.ng

32. University of Ibadan (Est. 1948) - https://www.ui.edu.ng

33. University of Ilorin (Est. 1975) - https://www.unilorin.edu.ng

34. University of Jos (Est. 1975) - https://www.unijos.edu.ng

35. University of Lagos (Est. 1962) - https://www.unilag.edu.ng

36. University of Maiduguri (Est. 1975) - https://www.unimaid.edu.ng

37. University of Nigeria, Nsukka (Est. 1960) - https://www.unn.edu.ng

38. University of Port Harcourt (Est. 1975) - https://www.uniport.edu.ng

39. University of Uyo (Est. 1991) - https://www.uniuyo.edu.ng

40. Usmanu Danfodiyo University, Sokoto (Est. 1975) - https://www.udusok.edu.ng

41. Nigerian Maritime University, Okerenkoko, Delta State (Est. 2018) - https://www.nmu.edu.ng

42. Air Force Institute of Technology, Kaduna (Est. 2018) - https://www.afit.edu.ng

43. Nigerian Army University, Biu (Est. 2018) - https://www.naub.edu.ng

44. Federal University of Health Sciences, Otukpo, Benue State (Est. 2020) - https://www.fuhso.edu.ng/

45. Federal University of Agriculture, Zuru, Kebbi State (Est. 2020) - https://www.fuaz.edu.ng/

46. Federal University of Technology, Babura, Jigawa State (Est. 2021) - https://futb.edu.ng/

47. Federal University of Technology, Ikot Abasi, Akwa Ibom State (Est. 2021) - https://futia.edu.ng/

48. Federal University of Health Sciences, Azare, Bauchi State (Est. 2021) - https://fuhsa.edu.ng/

49. Federal University of Health Sciences, Ila Orangun, Osun State (Est. 2021) - https://fuhsi.edu.ng/

50. David Nweze Umahi Federal University of Health Sciences, Uburu, Ebonyi State (Est. 2022) - https://kdums.edu.ng/

51. Admiralty University Ibusa, Delta State (Est. 2023) - https://adun.edu.ng/

52. Federal University of Transportation Daura, Katsina (Est. 2022) - https://www.futd.edu.ng/

53. African Aviation and Aerospace University (Est. 2023) - https://aaau.edu.ng/

54. National University of Science and Technology, Abuja (Est. 2023) - https://nusta.edu.ng/

55. Federal University of Agriculture Bassambiri, Bayelsa (Est. 2023) - Website not available

56. Federal University of Health Sciences Kwale, Delta State (Est. 2023) - Website not available

57. Federal University of Health Sciences, Katsina (Est. 2023) - Website not available

58. Federal University of Agriculture, Mubi (Est. 2023) - https://fuamb.edu.ng/

59. Federal University of Education, Zaria, Kaduna State (Est. 2023) - https://fcezaria.edu.ng/

60. Alvan Ikoku Federal University of Education, Owerri, Imo State (Est. 2023) - https://www.alvanikoku.edu.ng/

61. Federal University of Education, Kano (Est. 2023) - https://fcekano.edu.ng/

62. Adeyemi Federal University of Education, Ondo (Est. 2023) - https://afued.edu.ng/

63. Federal University of Allied Health Sciences, Enugu (Est. 2024) - https://fuahse.edu.ng/

64. Federal University of Medicine and Medical Sciences, Abeokuta (Est. 2023) - Website not available

65. Federal University of Education Pankshin, Plateau State (Est. 2023) - https://www.fcepkn.edu.ng/

66. Federal University of Education Kontagora, Niger State (Est. 2023) - https://fcekg.edu.ng/

67. University of Maritime Studies, Oron, Akwa Ibom State (Est. 2024) - Website not available

68. Federal University of Environment and Technology, Tai Town, Ogoniland, Rivers State (Est. 2025) - Website not available

69. Federal University of Applied Sciences, Kachia, Kaduna State (Est. 2025) - Website not available

70. Tai Solarin Federal University of Education, Ijagun, Ijebu Ode (Est. 2025) - https://tasued.edu.ng/

71. Federal University of Agriculture and Developmental Studies, Iragbiji, Osun State (Est. 2025) - Website not available

72. Federal University of Technology and Environmental Studies, Iyin-Ekiti, Ekiti State. (Est. 2025) - Website not available

Overview of Federal Universities in Nigeria

Federal universities are public institutions established and funded by the Nigerian federal government. They represent some of the most prestigious and well-resourced universities in the country. These universities attract students nationwide and often lead in academic research, innovation, and infrastructure development. Federal universities provide a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs that contribute significantly to Nigeria’s educational growth.

Benefits of Attending a Federal University

Studying at a federal university offers several advantages:

• Nationwide Recognition: Federal universities are recognized across Nigeria and internationally.
• Wide Program Variety: They offer a broad array of courses and specialized fields.
• Better Funding: Federal government funding generally results in improved facilities and resources.
• Diverse Student Body: Students from all Nigerian states study here, promoting cultural exchange.
• Higher Research Opportunities: Strong emphasis on research and postgraduate studies.

Challenges Faced by Federal Universities

Federal universities face unique challenges, including:

• Frequent Strikes: Academic staff unions like ASUU often strike, causing disruptions.
• Overcrowding: Popular programs often have high competition and large class sizes.
• Infrastructure Pressure: Despite funding, rapid student population growth can strain facilities.
• Admission Competition: High demand leads to tough entry requirements.

Admission Requirements for Federal Universities

Admission into federal universities requires:

• JAMB UTME: Candidates must meet minimum cut-off scores, which vary by institution and program.
• Post-UTME Screening: Many federal universities conduct post-UTME exams or interviews.
• O’Level Results: Five credit passes in relevant subjects, including English and Mathematics.
• Direct Entry: Candidates with diplomas or A-levels may apply through direct entry routes.

Top-Ranked Federal Universities in Nigeria

Some federal universities consistently rank at the top nationally:

• University of Ibadan (UI): Nigeria’s oldest university, known for its research and academic excellence.
• University of Lagos (UNILAG): Highly regarded for Law, Engineering, and Social Sciences.
• Ahmadu Bello University (ABU): One of the largest universities with a vast array of programs.
• University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN): Known for its innovation and comprehensive courses.
• Federal University of Technology, Minna (FUTMINNA): Specializes in technological education.

How to Choose the Right Federal University

Factors to consider include:

• Course Availability: Ensure the university offers your desired program.
• Accreditation: Check for NUC accreditation status.
• Location: Consider the geographic location and climate.
• Campus Facilities: Look for libraries, labs, and student support services.
• Reputation and Alumni Network: Strong alumni can enhance career prospects.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Federal Universities in Nigeria

1. What is the difference between federal, state, and private universities in Nigeria?
Federal universities are funded and managed by the Federal Government of Nigeria, while state universities are run by state governments. Private universities are established and managed by individuals or organizations.

2. How many federal universities are there in Nigeria?
As of 2025, there are 72 federally-owned universities in Nigeria spread across the 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory.

3. Are federal universities cheaper than private universities?
Yes. Federal universities typically offer lower tuition fees because they are subsidized by the government, making them more affordable than private universities.

4. Which is the oldest federal university in Nigeria?
The University of Ibadan, established in 1948, is the oldest university in Nigeria and was originally an affiliate of the University of London.

5. Do federal universities in Nigeria offer postgraduate programs?
Yes. Most federal universities offer a wide range of postgraduate programs including master's, doctoral (PhD), and postgraduate diplomas.

6. Are admissions into federal universities competitive?
Yes. Federal universities in Nigeria are highly sought after, and admission is extremely competitive, especially for popular courses like Medicine, Law, and Engineering.

7. Which federal universities are specialized institutions?
Some federal universities focus on specific fields. For example:

• Federal University of Petroleum Resources, Effurun – Petroleum studies

• Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta – Agricultural sciences

• Nigerian Maritime University, Okerenkoko – Maritime studies

8. Are there federal universities in every Nigerian state?
Yes. Each state in Nigeria has at least one federal university, ensuring nationwide access to tertiary education.

9. Can foreign students attend Nigerian federal universities?
Yes. Many federal universities accept foreign students, though the process may require special visas and documentation.

10. Do federal universities have NYSC accreditation?
Yes. All accredited federal universities in Nigeria are recognized by the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), allowing graduates to participate in the one-year national service.

Federal universities remain a top choice for Nigerian students due to their academic reputation, resources, and diverse programs. While challenges like strikes and competition exist, the opportunities for quality education and personal growth are substantial. Use this comprehensive list to explore and find the federal university that best matches your academic and career aspirations.