Top 10 Best Universities to Study Medicine and Surgery in Nigeria

For many aspiring doctors in Nigeria, choosing the right university to study Medicine and Surgery is a critical step in achieving a successful medical career. Medicine and Surgery, also known as MBBS (Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery), is one of the most competitive courses in Nigerian universities. Admission into these programs requires excellent academic credentials, strong performance in science subjects, and outstanding scores in the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) conducted by JAMB.

Studying medicine in Nigeria comes with the promise of a rewarding career in healthcare, research, and public health. However, the quality of your medical education greatly depends on the university you choose. Factors like accreditation, teaching hospitals, faculty experience, and research opportunities play a key role in shaping future medical professionals.

In this guide, we provide a comprehensive overview of the top 10 best universities to study Medicine and Surgery in Nigeria, covering admission requirements, course structure, reputation, and career pathways.

We will cover:

• Why choosing the right medical school matters

• Admission requirements and eligibility for MBBS programs

• Detailed profiles of the top 10 universities for Medicine and Surgery

• Factors that make these universities stand out

• Summary table of top universities

• FAQs addressing student concerns

• Practical tips for securing admission into medical programs

Why Choosing the Right University for Medicine and Surgery Matters

Choosing the right university for your medical education is a decision that can influence your academic performance, professional reputation, and career opportunities. The top medical schools in Nigeria are recognized for their:

1. Accreditation and Recognition – Graduates from accredited universities are eligible for medical licensing in Nigeria and abroad. Accreditation ensures that the curriculum meets national and international standards.

2. Quality of Faculty – Experienced lecturers, professors, and clinicians improve learning outcomes and provide mentorship.

3. Teaching Hospitals – Access to well-equipped teaching hospitals allows students to gain hands-on clinical experience.

4. Research Opportunities – Top medical schools promote scientific research, enabling students to engage in innovative healthcare projects.

5. Alumni Network – Graduates from prestigious medical schools often benefit from strong professional networks and higher employability.

Admission Requirements and Eligibility for Medicine and Surgery in Nigeria

To gain admission into an MBBS program in Nigeria, students must meet strict academic requirements:

Academic Requirements:

• Minimum WAEC or NECO Grades: Candidates must obtain at least credit passes in English Language, Mathematics, Physics, Chemistry, and Biology.

• UTME Requirements: Candidates must achieve high scores in JAMB UTME, usually 250 marks and above for Medicine and Surgery.

• Direct Entry Candidates: Students with A-Level, IJMB, or equivalent qualifications may gain admission into 200-level, provided they meet subject and grade requirements.

Other Eligibility Criteria:

• Age: Typically between 16–25 years for direct UTME entry.

• Screening: Most universities conduct Post-UTME screening tests to assess aptitude.

• Health Clearance: Candidates must pass medical examinations for admission into medical programs.

Top 10 Best Universities to Study Medicine and Surgery in Nigeria

1. University of Ibadan (UI), Ibadan

The University of Ibadan is Nigeria’s oldest university and widely regarded as the best for studying Medicine and Surgery.

Highlights:

• Established medical faculty with decades of experience.

• Access to University College Hospital (UCH) for clinical training.

• Strong emphasis on research and community health programs.

• Graduates enjoy high employability in Nigeria and abroad.

Admission Tips:

• Achieve high WAEC/NECO grades, particularly in Biology, Chemistry, Physics, and Mathematics.

• Score above 280 in UTME for competitive advantage.

• Prepare thoroughly for the Post-UTME screening test.

2. University of Lagos (UNILAG), Lagos

UNILAG is one of the most prestigious universities in Nigeria and has a highly regarded College of Medicine.

Highlights:

• Affiliated teaching hospitals offering extensive clinical exposure.

• Modern laboratories and research centers.

• Offers scholarships and international exchange programs.

Admission Tips:

• Maintain exceptional grades in science subjects.

• Participate actively in extracurricular activities; leadership and community service are valued.

• Post-UTME test preparation is crucial due to high competition.

3. Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), Ile-Ife

OAU’s Faculty of Health Sciences is recognized for its rigorous MBBS curriculum and excellent clinical training.

Highlights:

• Focus on practical medical training from the first year.

• Strong alumni network in Nigerian medical institutions.

• Modern teaching facilities and laboratories.

Admission Tips:

• High UTME score (minimum 270 preferred).

• Credit passes in relevant WAEC/NECO subjects.

• Prepare for both cognitive and practical assessments during Post-UTME.

4. University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN)

UNN’s College of Medicine is known for integrating academic excellence with community health services.

Highlights:

• Access to teaching hospitals for hands-on clinical experience.

• Emphasis on research in tropical medicine and public health.

• International collaborations with medical schools in the UK and USA.

Admission Tips:

• Achieve strong grades in Biology and Chemistry.

• Score highly in UTME and Post-UTME.

• Engage in volunteer programs to demonstrate commitment to medicine.

5. Ahmadu Bello University (ABU), Zaria

ABU’s Faculty of Medicine is one of Nigeria’s largest and most diverse medical faculties.

Highlights:

• Comprehensive curriculum covering basic sciences, clinical medicine, and surgery.

• Teaching hospitals equipped for advanced clinical training.

• Strong emphasis on research and healthcare innovation.

Admission Tips:

• Maintain excellent WAEC/NECO grades.

• Score above 270 in UTME.

• Prepare for ABU’s rigorous Post-UTME screening.

6. University of Ilorin (UNILORIN), Ilorin

UNILORIN has a growing reputation for producing well-trained medical professionals.

Highlights:

• Well-equipped teaching hospitals with modern diagnostic facilities.

• Strong emphasis on research and evidence-based medical education.

• Programs in community medicine and preventive healthcare.

Admission Tips:

• Focus on achieving distinctions in science subjects.

• High UTME scores and competitive Post-UTME results are essential.

7. Lagos State University (LASU), Ojo

LASU’s College of Medicine is known for quality medical training at an affordable tuition.

Highlights:

• Access to Lagos State University Teaching Hospital (LASUTH).

• Curriculum combines clinical exposure with public health training.

• Graduates are well-prepared for residency and medical practice.

Admission Tips:

• WAEC/NECO credits in all relevant science subjects.

• Strong UTME and Post-UTME performance.

• Demonstrate interest in community service and health programs.

8. University of Benin (UNIBEN), Benin City

UNIBEN’s Faculty of Medical Sciences has a reputation for academic rigor and practical training.

Highlights:

• Affiliated University of Benin Teaching Hospital (UBTH).

• Focus on clinical rotations, internships, and patient-centered learning.

• Active research programs in tropical medicine and surgery.

Admission Tips:

• Achieve distinctions in Biology and Chemistry.

• Score competitively in UTME and Post-UTME.

• Prepare for interviews where applicable.

9. University of Port Harcourt (UNIPORT)

UNIPORT’s College of Health Sciences provides a strong foundation for medical careers.

Highlights:

• Teaching hospitals offering extensive clinical exposure.

• Emphasis on medical research and innovation.

• Graduates are highly sought after in healthcare institutions.

Admission Tips:

• High grades in science subjects.

• Competitive UTME score.

• Prepare for Post-UTME assessment and interview.

10. Bayero University, Kano (BUK)

BUK’s Faculty of Medicine offers comprehensive medical education in Northern Nigeria.

Highlights:

• Access to teaching hospitals for clinical training.

• Focus on preventive and community medicine.

• Strong medical research programs.

Admission Tips:

• Credit passes in all relevant WAEC/NECO subjects.

• Score above 270 in UTME.

• Prepare for Post-UTME and medical aptitude tests.

Factors That Make These Universities Stand Out

1. Teaching Hospital Affiliation: Provides hands-on experience and exposure to diverse medical cases.

2. Accreditation: Ensures national and international recognition of MBBS degrees.

3. Research Opportunities: Engaging in research strengthens knowledge and career prospects.

4. Experienced Faculty: High-quality instruction and mentorship are critical for success in medicine.

5. Facilities: Modern labs, libraries, and clinical equipment improve learning outcomes.

Summary Table: Top 10 Best Universities for Medicine and Surgery in Nigeria

FAQs: Top Universities to Study Medicine and Surgery in Nigeria

1. Which university is best for studying Medicine in Nigeria?
   University of Ibadan (UI) is widely regarded as the top choice due to its teaching hospital and academic excellence.

2. What are the minimum WAEC requirements for MBBS?
   Credit passes in English Language, Mathematics, Biology, Chemistry, and Physics are required.

3. Is JAMB UTME mandatory for Medicine?
   Yes, a high score in UTME is required for admission into MBBS programs.

4. Can I use NECO instead of WAEC?
   Yes, NECO results are accepted provided they meet subject and grade requirements.

5. How competitive is admission into Medicine and Surgery?
   Extremely competitive; only top-performing students are admitted.

6. Do universities require Post-UTME for Medicine?
   Yes, most top medical schools conduct Post-UTME screening tests.

7. Which teaching hospital is the best for practical experience?
   University College Hospital (UCH), Ibadan, is considered one of the best.

8. Can MBBS graduates work abroad?
   Yes, graduates can pursue licensing exams to work internationally.

9. How long is the MBBS program in Nigeria?
   Typically 6–7 years, including clinical rotations and internships.

10. Are scholarships available for medical students?
    Yes, merit-based and government scholarships are available in several universities.

11. What subjects are most important for Medicine?
    Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Mathematics, and English Language are critical.

Conclusion

Choosing the right university for Medicine and Surgery is a pivotal decision for aspiring doctors in Nigeria. The universities listed above combine academic excellence, clinical exposure, experienced faculty, and research opportunities to provide a strong foundation for a medical career.

Prospective medical students must focus on excellent WAEC/NECO grades, high UTME scores, and diligent preparation for Post-UTME screening. By selecting the right institution, you position yourself for a successful and fulfilling career in medicine, both in Nigeria and internationally.

Start today by evaluating your options, preparing academically, and aiming for admission into one of these top universities. A career in Medicine and Surgery awaits, filled with opportunities to serve humanity and achieve professional success.