Nursing has become one of the most respected and high-demand medical courses in Nigeria. With the rising need for professional healthcare workers both in Nigeria and abroad, thousands of young Nigerians now dream of becoming registered nurses. But one major question remains which are the best universities for nursing in Nigeria?
Choosing the right university can determine the quality of your education, how quickly you get licensed, and even your chances of working abroad as a nurse. In this guide, we’ll reveal the top 10 best universities for nursing in Nigeria, based on accreditation, teaching quality, hospital facilities, graduates’ performance, and global reputation.
Whether you’re a JAMB candidate, a parent, or a transfer student, this updated list will help you make the right choice in 2025.
Why Study Nursing in Nigeria?
Nurses are the backbone of healthcare. In Nigeria, they provide essential services in hospitals, clinics, schools, NGOs, and community health programs. Also, Nigerian nurses are in very high demand in countries like the UK, USA, Canada, and Australia, making it one of the best exportable careers right now.
However, to become a successful nurse especially one who can work internationally, you must graduate from a fully accredited and well-equipped university.
Top 10 Best Universities for Nursing in Nigeria (2025)
1. University of Ibadan (UI), Oyo State
Nursing Department: Department of Nursing, Faculty of Clinical Sciences
Accreditation: NUC & Nursing Council
Hospital Facility: University College Hospital (UCH), Ibadan
Location: South West
UI is Nigeria’s first and most prestigious university. Its Nursing program is highly competitive and produces some of the best nurses in Africa. UCH Ibadan is one of the best teaching hospitals in the country.
2. University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN), Enugu State
Nursing Department: Department of Nursing Science
Hospital Facility: UNN Teaching Hospital (UNTH)
Location: South East
UNN offers a strong BSc Nursing program known for its academic depth and practical excellence. Graduates from UNN are recognized both locally and internationally.
3. Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), Ile-Ife, Osun State
Nursing Department: Department of Nursing Science, Faculty of Basic Medical Sciences
Teaching Hospital: OAU Teaching Hospital (OAUTHC)
Location: South West
OAU is known for its rigorous training and well-structured nursing curriculum. The university also offers postgraduate opportunities for nurses.
4. University of Lagos (UNILAG), Lagos State
Nursing Department: Department of Nursing, Faculty of Clinical Sciences
Teaching Hospital: Lagos University Teaching Hospital (LUTH)
Location: Lagos
UNILAG is one of the most recognized universities in Nigeria. Its nursing graduates are highly respected and have strong chances for international placement due to LUTH’s world-class exposure.
5. Ahmadu Bello University (ABU), Zaria, Kaduna State
Nursing Department: Department of Nursing Science
Teaching Hospital: ABU Teaching Hospital (ABUTH)
Location: Northern Nigeria
ABU is the best university for nursing in Northern Nigeria. With strong infrastructure, a diverse student body, and good federal funding, ABU offers great academic and practical training for future nurses.
6. University of Benin (UNIBEN), Edo State
Nursing Department: Department of Nursing Science
Teaching Hospital: University of Benin Teaching Hospital (UBTH)
Location: South-South
UNIBEN’s nursing department is one of the most consistent in Nigeria. It combines quality classroom instruction with practical exposure at UBTH, one of Nigeria’s largest hospitals.
7. University of Ilorin (UNILORIN), Kwara State
Nursing Department: Department of Nursing Science
Teaching Hospital: UNILORIN Teaching Hospital
Location: North Central
UNILORIN is known for academic stability and discipline. Nursing students here benefit from a structured program and a well-organized teaching hospital.
8. Nnamdi Azikiwe University (UNIZIK), Awka, Anambra State
Nursing Department: Department of Nursing Science
Teaching Hospital: NAU Teaching Hospital, Nnewi
Location: South East
UNIZIK offers one of the best Nursing programs in Eastern Nigeria. With modern labs and qualified lecturers, it’s a great option for students seeking quality and affordability.
9. University of Port Harcourt (UNIPORT), Rivers State
Nursing Department: Department of Nursing Science
Teaching Hospital: UNIPORT Teaching Hospital
Location: South-South
UNIPORT is a top federal university with a growing reputation in the medical field. Nursing students enjoy real-time clinical exposure and strong research support.
10. Babcock University, Ogun State (Private)
Nursing Department: Department of Nursing, School of Nursing Science
Teaching Hospital: Babcock University Teaching Hospital
Location: South West
Babcock stands out among private universities. It offers a BSc Nursing program that is well-structured, accredited, and globally aligned. Their graduates are known to perform well on international licensing exams.
Requirements to Study Nursing in Nigerian Universities
To study BSc Nursing, you must:
Have at least 5 credits in WAEC/NECO including English, Mathematics, Physics, Chemistry, and Biology
Score above 200 in JAMB UTME (Cut-off depends on university)
Pass post-UTME screening
Be medically fit and meet all university requirements
Why Accreditation Matters
Ensure your chosen university is approved by the NUC and accredited by the Nursing and Midwifery Council of Nigeria (NMCN). Without proper accreditation, you won’t be allowed to practice or get your license.
Always check the Nursing Council’s website or ask the school directly for proof of accreditation.
Tips for Choosing the Best Nursing University in Nigeria
Location: Consider proximity, cost of living, and security.
Hospital Affiliation: Choose universities with active teaching hospitals.
Licensing Support: Look for schools with high Nursing Council exam pass rates.
International Opportunities: Some universities prepare students for international exams like NCLEX.
Conclusion
Nursing is a life-changing career with local and international opportunities. But to succeed, you need the right foundation — and that starts with the right university.
From the prestigious University of Ibadan to private options like Babcock, Nigeria has great institutions that can train you to become a world-class nurse.