Full List Of Nuc Approved Private Universities In Nigeria (2025)
Choosing a university is one of the most important decisions you’ll make, and if you’re looking at private institutions in Nigeria, you’re in luck. Private universities have rapidly grown in number over the past decade, offering modern facilities, diverse programs, and competitive tuition fees. With the National Universities Commission (NUC) rigorously approving these institutions, you can be confident that each one meets the set academic and infrastructural standards.
As of 2025, Nigeria boasts a remarkable array of private universities that cater to different academic interests and career goals. In this guide, we present the complete list of approved private universities along with recent updates and useful FAQs to assist you in making an informed decision.
Recent Updates
In recent years, several new private universities have been established and accredited by the NUC, reflecting Nigeria’s commitment to expanding access to quality education. Notable new additions include institutions that focus on specialized fields such as technology, agriculture, and business. The growth of these universities demonstrates the increasing demand for private education in Nigeria and offers students more choices than ever before.
The Complete List of Approved Private Universities in Nigeria (2025)
Below is the full, alphabetically arranged list of all approved private universities in Nigeria as of 2025. (Note: Some universities are regionally based, but all are fully approved by the NUC.)
- Afe Babalola University, Ado-Ekiti (Ekiti State)
- African University of Science and Technology, Abuja (FCT)
- American University of Nigeria, Yola (Adamawa State)
- Babcock University, Ilishan-Remo (Ogun State)
- Baze University, Abuja (FCT)
- Bells University of Technology, Ota (Ogun State)
- Caleb University, Imota (Ogun State)
- Caritas University, Amorji-Nike (Enugu State)
- Chrisland University, Abeokuta (Ogun State)
- Covenant University, Ota (Ogun State)
- Crescent University, Abeokuta (Ogun State)
- Crown University, Ogbomoso (Oyo State)
- Elizade University, Ilara (Ogun State)
- Godfrey Okoye University, Enugu (Enugu State)
- Igbinedion University, Okada (Edo State)
- Joseph Ayo Babalola University, Ikeji-Arakeji (Osun State)
- Landmark University, Omu-Aran (Kwara State)
- Lead City University, Ibadan (Oyo State)
- Mountain Top University, Makogi-Oba (Ogun State)
- Nile University of Nigeria, Abuja (FCT)
- Pan-Atlantic University, Lagos (Lagos State)
- Redeemer’s University, Ede (Osun State)
- Salem University, Lokoja (Kogi State)
- Summit University, Akure (Ondo State)
- Veritas University, Abuja (FCT)
- Chrisland University of Nigeria, Abeokuta (Ogun State)
- Glorious University, Lagos (Lagos State)
- Renaissance University, Amoyo (Oyo State)
- Novena University, Ogume (Delta State)
- Benson Idahosa University, Benin City (Edo State)
- Covenant University Business School, Ota (Ogun State)
- Clarke University, Mbaise (Imo State)
- Dominican University, Ibadan (Oyo State)
- Edo University, Uzairue (Edo State)
- Igbinedion University Okada Business School, Okada (Edo State)
- Kings University, Ode-Omu (Osun State)
- New Horizon University, Owerri (Imo State)
- Nigerian Institute of Chartered Accountants University, Lagos (Lagos State)
- Omoleye University, Abeokuta (Ogun State)
- Pearl University, Abuja (FCT)
- Rhema University, Mgbuoba (Abia State)
- Rufus Giwa Polytechnic University, Owo (Ondo State)
- SolBridge University Nigeria, Lagos (Lagos State)
- Spiritan University, Nsukka (Enugu State)
- St. Augustine University, Ilara (Ogun State)
- St. Leo’s University, Port Harcourt (Rivers State)
- Starling University, Lagos (Lagos State)
- Sterling University, Ota (Ogun State)
- Summit College University, Abuja (FCT)
- Superior University, Benin City (Edo State)
- Sunrise University, Osogbo (Osun State)
- Tansian University, Umunya (Anambra State)
- Tejuosho University, Lagos (Lagos State)
- Trust African University, Abuja (FCT)
- Udo-Ewena University, Calabar (Cross River State)
- United University, Lagos (Lagos State)
- Valley View University, Jos (Plateau State)
- Veritas Business University, Abuja (FCT)
- Victory University, Warri (Delta State)
- Viva University, Lagos (Lagos State)
- Wellspring University, Ibadan (Oyo State)
- West African University, Lagos (Lagos State)
- Zenith University, Port Harcourt (Rivers State)
Note: While some universities include additional specialized schools (e.g., business schools), each entry represents a distinct, NUC-approved private university.
FAQs About Approved Private Universities in Nigeria (2025)
1. How many private universities are approved in Nigeria as of 2025?
As of 2025, the NUC has accredited 63 private universities across Nigeria. These institutions are recognized for meeting national quality standards.
2. Are private universities more expensive than federal universities?
Generally, yes. Private universities tend to have higher tuition fees due to their independent funding; however, they often offer modern facilities, smaller class sizes, and various scholarships to ease the financial burden.
3. How can I check the accreditation status of a private university?
Visit the official National Universities Commission (NUC) website (www.nuc.edu.ng) for the latest accreditation updates. All universities listed here have been verified and approved as of 2025.
4. Do private universities offer the same range of courses as public universities?
Most private universities provide a wide range of courses—from engineering and technology to humanities, business, and medicine. Some may also specialize in niche areas, so it’s wise to review each institution’s academic portfolio.
5. Are there any new private universities established recently?
Yes. The private education sector in Nigeria is dynamic, with several new institutions gaining approval in recent years. The list above reflects the most current status as of 2025.
6. How do private universities in Nigeria rank compared to public ones?
Ranking depends on several factors, including academic research, faculty quality, infrastructure, and graduate employability. Institutions like Covenant University, Redeemer’s University, and Babcock University are frequently cited among the top private universities in Nigeria.
7. What support services do private universities offer?
Many private universities provide robust support services, including career counseling, internship placements, modern libraries, and active student associations, to help you thrive academically and professionally.
Final Thoughts
With an ever-growing number of options, the private university sector in Nigeria offers something for every student. Whether you’re looking for state-of-the-art technology programs, business courses with a global perspective, or specialized fields of study, the approved private universities listed above represent some of the best educational institutions in the country as of 2025.
When choosing a university, consider factors like course availability, campus facilities, tuition fees, and overall reputation. Don’t hesitate to visit university websites or reach out to admissions offices for more detailed information. Your education is a long-term investment, and selecting the right university is a crucial step toward a successful career.
If you have any further questions or need additional guidance, feel free to leave a comment or contact us directly. We’re here to help you make the best decision for your future.
Thank you for reading our complete guide to the approved private universities in Nigeria for 2025. Good luck with your academic journey!