In Nigeria, becoming a qualified nurse usually takes time, patience, and commitment. However, not all nursing schools require long years of study before graduation. Some nursing schools in Nigeria are structured to help students graduate faster within 2 to 3 years without compromising on the quality of education.
This guide explores the top 10 fastest schools of nursing to graduate in Nigeria in 2025, including their admission processes, program lengths, tuition fees, and why they stand out. If you're a student looking to become a registered nurse quickly, this article is your complete resource.
Why Choose a Fast Nursing School in Nigeria?
Nursing remains one of the most in-demand and respected careers in Nigeria and abroad. Many students, especially those with limited time or resources, prefer fast-track nursing schools for several reasons:
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Shorter graduation time means you can start working or furthering your studies sooner.
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It reduces educational costs like tuition and accommodation.
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Fast-track programs often focus on clinical and hands-on experience, which boosts employability.
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These schools are often affiliated with teaching hospitals, ensuring quick practical exposure.
Who Is This Guide For?
This article is ideal for:
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SSCE/WAEC/NECO holders looking to study nursing.
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Students who want to become Registered Nurses (RNs) in the shortest possible time.
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Candidates considering schools of nursing affiliated with tertiary hospitals or state health boards.
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Parents seeking fast, affordable options for their wards to become healthcare professionals.
Understanding Nursing Program Types in Nigeria
Before we list the fastest nursing schools, here are the types of nursing programs in Nigeria and their durations:
| Program Type | Duration |
|---|---|
| Basic Nursing (School of Nursing) | 3 years |
| Post-Basic Nursing (for trained midwives) | 1.5–2 years |
| ND/HND in Nursing | 4–5 years |
| B.Sc. in Nursing (University Degree) | 5 years |
For the fastest graduation, the Basic Nursing or Post-Basic programs are your best option, which are mostly offered in Schools of Nursing and not universities.
Top 10 Fastest Schools of Nursing to Graduate in Nigeria 2025
These schools are selected based on program duration, frequency of admission, speed of graduation, and regulatory approval by the Nursing and Midwifery Council of Nigeria (NMCN).
1. School of Nursing, Lagos University Teaching Hospital (LUTH)
LUTH School of Nursing is one of Nigeria’s most reputable and fastest to graduate from.
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Program Duration: 3 years
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Program Offered: Basic Nursing
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Accreditation: NMCN-approved
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Why It’s Fast: Offers uninterrupted academic calendar with strong clinical training
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Admission: Through LUTH application portal, SSCE with 5 credits in English, Maths, Biology, Physics, Chemistry
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Tuition Fee (Approx): ₦150,000–₦200,000/year
2. School of Nursing, Obafemi Awolowo University Teaching Hospitals Complex (OAUTHC), Ile-Ife
This school offers one of the quickest routes to becoming a registered nurse in Nigeria.
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Duration: 3 years
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Program: Basic Nursing
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Why It’s Fast: Intensive academic structure and year-round lectures
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Admission: 5 relevant credits in WAEC/NECO; competitive entrance exam
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Tuition Fees: Around ₦120,000 per session
3. School of Nursing, University College Hospital (UCH), Ibadan
UCH has trained thousands of nurses within short academic periods due to consistent program delivery.
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Duration: 3 years
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Why It’s Fast: Minimal strike disruptions and early clinical exposure
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Accreditation: Fully accredited by NMCN
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Fees: ₦100,000–₦180,000
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Requirement: SSCE with required science credits
4. School of Nursing, Joint Hospital Mbano, Imo State
Highly rated for speed, affordability, and effective training.
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Program: Basic General Nursing
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Duration: 3 years
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Why It’s Fast: Uninterrupted calendar and early exam clearance
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Fees: ₦100,000–₦130,000/year
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Admission Process: Entrance exam and oral interview
5. ECWA School of Nursing, Egbe, Kogi State
A mission-based nursing school with a high graduation rate.
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Duration: 3 years
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Why It’s Fast: Strict adherence to academic calendar
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Programs: Basic Nursing
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Accreditation: Recognized by NMCN
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Fees: ₦120,000–₦160,000
6. School of Nursing, NAUTH Nnewi (Nnamdi Azikiwe University Teaching Hospital)
Well-equipped with modern facilities and fast-track clinical training.
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Duration: 3 years
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Why It’s Fast: Runs back-to-back academic sessions
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Requirement: SSCE/WAEC with science subjects
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Fees: ₦150,000 per year
7. School of Nursing, St. Gerard’s Catholic Hospital, Kaduna
One of the fastest missionary nursing institutions in Nigeria.
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Program Duration: 3 years
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Why It’s Fast: Private institution with no academic delays
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Admission: Competitive entrance exam
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Fees: ₦180,000–₦250,000
8. School of Nursing, Ahmadu Bello University Teaching Hospital (ABUTH), Zaria
Highly recommended for quick and thorough nurse training.
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Program: Basic Nursing
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Duration: 3 years
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Why It’s Fast: Efficient academic and hospital rotation system
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Fees: ₦100,000–₦160,000/year
9. School of Nursing, Iyi-Enu Mission Hospital, Anambra
Known for strict structure and quick graduation.
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Program: Basic General Nursing
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Duration: 3 years
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Why It’s Fast: Fewer delays and structured learning environment
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Fees: ₦150,000–₦200,000/year
10. School of Nursing, Federal Medical Centre, Umuahia
A government nursing school with strong clinical ties and fast graduation.
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Program Duration: 3 years
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Why It’s Fast: Efficient rotations and structured curriculum
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Admission: Based on SSCE performance and entrance exam
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Fees: ₦100,000–₦150,000/year
Summary Table: Fastest Nursing Schools in Nigeria (2025)
| School | Location | Program | Duration | Estimated Fees |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| LUTH School of Nursing | Lagos | Basic Nursing | 3 years | ₦150k–₦200k/year |
| OAUTHC Ile-Ife | Osun State | Basic Nursing | 3 years | ₦120k/year |
| UCH Ibadan | Oyo State | Basic Nursing | 3 years | ₦100k–₦180k/year |
| Joint Hospital Mbano | Imo State | Basic Nursing | 3 years | ₦100k–₦130k/year |
| ECWA School of Nursing Egbe | Kogi State | Basic Nursing | 3 years | ₦120k–₦160k/year |
| NAUTH Nnewi | Anambra | Basic Nursing | 3 years | ₦150k/year |
| St. Gerard’s Hospital | Kaduna | Basic Nursing | 3 years | ₦180k–₦250k/year |
| ABUTH Zaria | Kaduna State | Basic Nursing | 3 years | ₦100k–₦160k/year |
| Iyi-Enu School of Nursing | Anambra | Basic Nursing | 3 years | ₦150k–₦200k/year |
| FMC Umuahia | Abia State | Basic Nursing | 3 years | ₦100k–₦150k/year |
FAQs About the Fastest Nursing Schools in Nigeria
1. What is the shortest time to become a nurse in Nigeria?
The shortest path is through Basic Nursing programs, which take just 3 years.
2. Can I become a registered nurse without going to a university?
Yes. Schools of Nursing offer direct paths to becoming a registered nurse without a university degree.
3. Are all schools of nursing accredited?
Not all. Always check if a school is accredited by the Nursing and Midwifery Council of Nigeria (NMCN).
4. How much does nursing school cost in Nigeria?
Fees range from ₦100,000 to ₦250,000 annually depending on the institution.
5. Do these schools offer hostel accommodation?
Most schools do, but it may come with additional charges.
6. What qualifications do I need to enter a school of nursing?
5 credits in WAEC, NECO, or NABTEB including English, Mathematics, Biology, Physics, and Chemistry.
7. Can I work abroad after graduating from these schools?
Yes, but you may need additional exams or licensing depending on the destination country.
8. Are there entrance exams?
Yes. Most schools require applicants to write entrance exams and attend oral interviews.
9. Are private nursing schools faster than government ones?
Private schools often have uninterrupted calendars, making them faster in many cases.
10. Can I further my studies after graduating from a school of nursing?
Absolutely. You can enroll in Post-Basic Nursing, B.Sc. Nursing, or even go abroad for further education.
Conclusion
If you want to become a nurse quickly in Nigeria, attending one of the fastest nursing schools is your best option. These schools offer solid training, shorter academic timelines, and high chances of employment after graduation.
From LUTH to FMC Umuahia, each of these schools provides a reliable path to nursing success in just 3 years or less. Just ensure you meet the entry requirements and apply on time.
For the latest updates on nursing admissions and opportunities, always visit the official websites of these institutions or monitor their entrance exam announcements.