Electrical Engineering is one of the most dynamic and high-demand fields of engineering in Nigeria. It plays a vital role in the nation’s power, telecommunications, oil and gas, construction, and ICT industries. From power generation to automation, electrical engineers drive innovation that shapes the future of technology and industrial development.
In 2025, Nigeria faces pressing challenges such as power supply shortages, renewable energy needs, and growing demand for digital infrastructure. Electrical engineers are at the center of solving these problems, making the discipline not only prestigious but also highly relevant.
Choosing the right university is one of the most important steps for aspiring electrical engineers. A well-equipped institution provides academic excellence, practical exposure, industry collaborations, and global recognition.
This article provides a complete guide to the top 10 best universities to study electrical engineering in Nigeria (2025). We will cover:
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Why studying electrical engineering in Nigeria matters
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Admission requirements and eligibility criteria
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Detailed profiles of the top 10 universities offering electrical engineering
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Key factors that make these institutions stand out
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A summary comparison table for quick reference
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Frequently asked questions (FAQs) with clear answers
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A conclusion with practical advice for prospective students
Why Studying Electrical Engineering in Nigeria Matters
Electrical engineering is sometimes referred to as the “powerhouse of engineering” because it connects almost every other field of technology. In Nigeria, this discipline is especially important because:
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Power Sector Development: Electrical engineers design and maintain power plants, transmission lines, and distribution networks.
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Telecommunications Growth: They are critical in maintaining and expanding mobile networks, internet services, and broadcasting systems.
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Oil and Gas Industry: Electrical engineers design control systems, instrumentation, and automation for drilling and refining.
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ICT and Digital Technology: From robotics to microelectronics, electrical engineers contribute to Nigeria’s digital transformation.
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Employment Opportunities: Electrical engineers are in demand both locally and internationally.
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Entrepreneurship: Many graduates establish businesses in renewable energy, inverter systems, or electrical contracting.
For students in Nigeria, electrical engineering offers a stable career path, high earning potential, and global relevance.
Admission Requirements and Eligibility for Electrical Engineering in Nigeria
Gaining admission into a Bachelor of Engineering (B.Eng) program in electrical engineering requires both academic excellence and meeting institutional standards.
Academic Requirements
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WAEC/NECO: Minimum of five (5) credit passes in Mathematics, Physics, Chemistry, English Language, and one other science subject (e.g., Further Mathematics, Technical Drawing, or Biology).
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UTME Subjects: Mathematics, Physics, and Chemistry are compulsory, alongside English Language.
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UTME Score: A competitive score is required, usually between 200 and 250, depending on the university.
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Direct Entry: Candidates with A-Level passes in Mathematics and Physics, or holders of ND/HND in electrical/electronic-related fields, may gain admission into 200-level.
Other Eligibility Criteria
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Post-UTME Screening: Most universities conduct aptitude tests after UTME.
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Age Requirement: Candidates are usually required to be at least 16 years old.
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Medical Fitness: Because electrical engineering includes practical and fieldwork, students may be required to show evidence of physical and mental fitness.
Top 10 Best Universities to Study Electrical Engineering in Nigeria (2025)
1. University of Lagos (UNILAG), Lagos
Highlights:
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Offers one of the most comprehensive electrical engineering programs in Nigeria.
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Focus areas: power systems, electronics, telecommunications, and control systems.
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Strong collaborations with ICT companies and Lagos-based industries.
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Modern laboratories equipped with simulation and design software.
Admission Tips:
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Competitive UTME score (250+ recommended).
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Strong WAEC grades, especially in Physics and Mathematics.
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Prepare well for UNILAG’s rigorous Post-UTME exam.
2. Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), Ile-Ife
Highlights:
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Known for its excellent research and innovation in electrical and electronic engineering.
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Curriculum covers power systems, instrumentation, and automation.
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Access to well-equipped labs and student-led innovation centers.
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Strong alumni network in Nigeria’s telecom and ICT industries.
Admission Tips:
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Distinctions in WAEC/NECO science subjects.
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High UTME score (230+).
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Prepare extensively for OAU’s challenging admission process.
3. Ahmadu Bello University (ABU), Zaria
Highlights:
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One of the largest engineering faculties in West Africa.
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Electrical engineering courses cover telecommunications, electronics, and renewable energy.
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Affordable tuition compared to southern universities.
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Excellent facilities for research and practical training.
Admission Tips:
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UTME score of at least 220+.
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Strong grades in Physics, Mathematics, and Chemistry.
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Good performance in ABU’s internal screening test.
4. University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN)
Highlights:
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Offers a strong foundation in electrical power systems and electronics.
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Opportunities for research in renewable energy and automation.
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Well-structured industrial training and student projects.
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Partnerships with companies for internships and graduate employment.
Admission Tips:
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Distinctions in WAEC/NECO core subjects.
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High UTME score (230+).
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Participate in science and technology fairs to boost profile.
5. University of Ibadan (UI), Ibadan
Highlights:
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Nigeria’s first university, recognized for academic excellence.
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Electrical engineering curriculum emphasizes research in microelectronics, power systems, and control engineering.
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Access to advanced research centers and postgraduate opportunities.
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Highly competitive admission process.
Admission Tips:
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Target UTME score above 240.
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Excellent WAEC/NECO results.
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Strong preparation for UI’s Post-UTME.
6. University of Benin (UNIBEN), Benin City
Highlights:
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Provides training in telecommunications, power engineering, and electronics.
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Emphasis on practical workshops and industrial attachments.
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Strong research culture in renewable energy and materials.
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Good balance of theory and applied learning.
Admission Tips:
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UTME score above 220.
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Credit passes in Mathematics, Physics, and Chemistry.
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Post-UTME success is crucial.
7. Federal University of Technology, Akure (FUTA)
Highlights:
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Specialized in technology and engineering disciplines.
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Offers cutting-edge courses in electronics, robotics, and embedded systems.
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Strong emphasis on mechatronics and automation research.
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Access to innovation hubs and tech-based competitions.
Admission Tips:
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UTME score above 230 recommended.
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High WAEC/NECO performance in science subjects.
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Active interest in technology-based projects is an advantage.
8. University of Port Harcourt (UNIPORT)
Highlights:
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Strong electrical engineering program tailored to oil and gas applications.
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Special focus on control systems, instrumentation, and power engineering.
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Access to industry partnerships in the Niger Delta.
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Encourages innovation in renewable energy and automation.
Admission Tips:
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UTME score of 220+.
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Distinctions in Physics and Mathematics.
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Good performance in UNIPORT’s internal screening.
9. Bayero University, Kano (BUK)
Highlights:
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Affordable tuition and quality teaching in northern Nigeria.
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Focus on power engineering, electronics, and telecommunications.
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Well-equipped workshops for practical learning.
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Strong emphasis on regional industrial needs.
Admission Tips:
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Strong WAEC/NECO science grades.
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UTME score above 210 recommended.
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Post-UTME screening is compulsory.
10. University of Ilorin (UNILORIN), Ilorin
Highlights:
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Known for its discipline and stable academic calendar.
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Electrical engineering program emphasizes power, electronics, and communication systems.
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Opportunities for industrial placements in Nigeria.
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Strong entrepreneurship focus for engineering students.
Admission Tips:
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UTME score above 220.
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Excellent WAEC/NECO grades.
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Good Post-UTME preparation is essential.
Factors That Make These Universities Stand Out
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Accreditation: All listed universities are accredited by COREN and NUC.
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Strong Industry Partnerships: Access to internships in oil and gas, ICT, and power sectors.
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Experienced Faculty: Blend of academic and professional expertise.
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Research Opportunities: Renewable energy, robotics, and microelectronics.
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Modern Facilities: Advanced laboratories and workshops.
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Alumni Success: Graduates employed in top Nigerian and international companies.
Summary Table: Top 10 Best Universities for Electrical Engineering in Nigeria
| Rank | University | Location | Key Features | Admission Tips |
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| 1 | UNILAG | Lagos | Power, electronics, telecom focus | UTME 250+, strong Post-UTME |
| 2 | OAU | Ile-Ife | Innovation, automation research | Distinctions in core subjects |
| 3 | ABU | Zaria | Large faculty, affordable fees | UTME 220+, screening test |
| 4 | UNN | Nsukka | Renewable energy focus | Distinctions, 230+ UTME |
| 5 | UI | Ibadan | Research-oriented program | UTME 240+, Post-UTME prep |
| 6 | UNIBEN | Benin City | Practical workshops | UTME 220+, Post-UTME success |
| 7 | FUTA | Akure | Robotics, mechatronics | UTME 230+, WAEC excellence |
| 8 | UNIPORT | Port Harcourt | Oil & gas applications | UTME 220+, Physics/Maths |
| 9 | BUK | Kano | Affordable, telecom focus | UTME 210+, WAEC credits |
| 10 | UNILORIN | Ilorin | Stable calendar, entrepreneurship | UTME 220+, Post-UTME prep |
FAQs: Best Universities to Study Electrical Engineering in Nigeria
1. Which university is best for electrical engineering in Nigeria?
UNILAG and OAU are among the best due to their facilities, faculty, and strong industry collaborations.
2. How many years does it take to study electrical engineering in Nigeria?
Usually 5 years, excluding NYSC service.
3. What UTME subjects are required for electrical engineering?
Mathematics, Physics, Chemistry, and English Language.
4. Can I study electrical engineering with NECO results?
Yes, provided you have the required credit passes.
5. What is the JAMB cut-off mark for electrical engineering?
Generally between 200–250 depending on the university.
6. Do Nigerian universities offer electronic engineering separately?
Some universities merge it with electrical engineering, while others have distinct programs.
7. Are electrical engineers in demand in Nigeria?
Yes, especially in power, oil and gas, ICT, and construction sectors.
8. Do these universities offer scholarships for electrical engineering students?
Yes, through government, institutional, and private sponsorships.
9. Can I specialize in renewable energy as an electrical engineering student?
Yes, many universities now include renewable energy modules.
10. What career paths are open after graduation?
Power systems engineer, telecommunications engineer, electronics designer, ICT consultant, automation engineer, among others.
Conclusion
Electrical engineering is one of the most respected and rewarding disciplines in Nigeria. As the country strives to improve power supply, expand telecommunications, and embrace digital technology in 2025, the demand for skilled electrical engineers will only increase.
The top 10 universities listed in this guide provide world-class education, hands-on training, and industry partnerships that prepare students for successful careers.
If you are aspiring to become an electrical engineer, focus on excelling in science subjects, achieving high UTME and Post-UTME scores, and choosing a university that aligns with your career goals.
With hard work and the right institution, a career in electrical engineering can lead to national impact, financial reward, and global opportunities.