Looking for the top 10 cheapest medical universities in Nigeria and their fees in 2025? You're not alone. Every year, thousands of aspiring doctors and parents search for affordable universities where they can study medicine without going deep into debt.
This detailed guide breaks down the most affordable medical schools in Nigeria, their tuition fees, entry requirements, and what makes them a smart option for students looking to become medical professionals.
Whether you're preparing for JAMB or considering transferring to a low-cost medical university, this article gives you everything you need to know.
Why Study Medicine in Nigeria?
Studying medicine in Nigeria comes with several advantages:
Lower tuition compared to studying abroad
Access to teaching hospitals for clinical training
Strong medical curriculum recognized by MDCN
Availability of government-funded universities
Training that prepares you for local health challenges
However, medicine is still one of the most expensive programs in Nigeria. That’s why finding the cheapest medical universities in Nigeria in 2025 is important for students from middle or low-income homes.
How We Ranked the Cheapest Medical Universities in Nigeria
The following criteria were used to rank the schools on this list:
Annual tuition fees for medicine and surgery (MBBS)
Federal or state government subsidies
Availability of teaching hospitals
Reputation for medical education
Accessibility for local and out-of-state students
Now, let’s explore the top 10 cheapest medical universities in Nigeria and their fees in 2025.
Top 10 Cheapest Medical Universities in Nigeria and Their Fees (2025)
1. Ahmadu Bello University (ABU), Zaria
Location: Kaduna State
Tuition Fee (2025): ₦45,000 – ₦75,000/year
Ownership: Federal Government
ABU Zaria is known for offering one of the most affordable MBBS programs in Nigeria. The Faculty of Medicine is highly rated and equipped with a functional teaching hospital.
Despite its low fees, the quality of education at ABU rivals that of more expensive institutions, making it ideal for students seeking a balance between cost and value.
2. University of Ibadan (UI)
Location: Oyo State
Tuition Fee (2025): ₦50,000 – ₦85,000/year
Ownership: Federal Government
UI is Nigeria’s premier university and one of the best medical schools in Africa. It remains affordable for both indigenes and non-indigenes.
UI’s College of Medicine boasts cutting-edge research, experienced lecturers, and a reputable teaching hospital (UCH), all while keeping fees low.
3. University of Ilorin (UNILORIN)
Location: Kwara State
Tuition Fee (2025): ₦50,000 – ₦90,000/year
Ownership: Federal Government
UNILORIN offers a solid MBBS program with a stable academic calendar and minimal strikes. The school is highly competitive, but the fees remain among the lowest in Nigeria for medicine.
Its teaching hospital and strong pre-clinical training make it a good choice for serious medical students.
4. Usmanu Danfodiyo University, Sokoto (UDUS)
Location: Sokoto State
Tuition Fee (2025): ₦45,000 – ₦80,000/year
Ownership: Federal Government
UDUS is a hidden gem when it comes to affordable medical education. With one of the most peaceful campuses and a fully operational teaching hospital, UDUS is great for focused learning.
The school offers low-cost accommodation and subsidies for Sokoto State indigenes.
5. University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN)
Location: Enugu State
Tuition Fee (2025): ₦60,000 – ₦95,000/year
Ownership: Federal Government
UNN has a highly respected College of Medicine located in Enugu Campus (UNEC). It offers affordable medical education, strong alumni support, and access to a teaching hospital.
While admission is competitive, the school fees remain manageable compared to most private institutions.
6. University of Benin (UNIBEN)
Location: Edo State
Tuition Fee (2025): ₦55,000 – ₦95,000/year
Ownership: Federal Government
UNIBEN is another federal university known for its top-tier College of Medicine. The school’s well-equipped teaching hospital offers hands-on training for students.
UNIBEN keeps its fees low despite offering quality medical education in the South-South zone.
7. Gombe State University (GSU)
Location: Gombe State
Tuition Fee (2025): ₦45,000 – ₦85,000/year
Ownership: State Government
GSU offers one of the cheapest MBBS programs in Nigeria through its Faculty of Basic and Medical Sciences. The teaching hospital is operational, and indigenes get subsidized tuition.
Gombe’s low cost of living further reduces student expenses.
8. Niger Delta University (NDU)
Location: Bayelsa State
Tuition Fee (2025): ₦70,000 – ₦100,000/year
Ownership: State Government
NDU provides a solid medical program through its Faculty of Clinical Sciences. While slightly costlier than federal schools, its fees remain among the lowest for state-owned universities offering MBBS.
The university partners with a state teaching hospital for clinical experience.
9. Abia State University (ABSU)
Location: Uturu, Abia State
Tuition Fee (2025): ₦75,000 – ₦110,000/year
Ownership: State Government
ABSU is one of the cheapest medical universities in the Southeast. Though it’s a state school, its fees are still accessible to both indigenes and non-indigenes.
The school runs a dedicated medical campus with access to teaching and clinical facilities.
10. Olabisi Onabanjo University (OOU)
Location: Ogun State
Tuition Fee (2025): ₦85,000 – ₦120,000/year
Ownership: State Government
OOU offers a reputable MBBS program through its College of Health Sciences. While slightly more expensive, it still ranks as one of the cheapest medical schools in Southwest Nigeria.
Its proximity to Lagos makes it attractive to students from the western zone.
Summary Table: Cheapest Medical Universities in Nigeria 2025
| University Name | Location | Tuition Fee (₦) | Ownership |
|---|---|---|---|
| ABU Zaria | Kaduna State | ₦45k – ₦75k | Federal |
| UI Ibadan | Oyo State | ₦50k – ₦85k | Federal |
| UNILORIN | Kwara State | ₦50k – ₦90k | Federal |
| UDUS Sokoto | Sokoto State | ₦45k – ₦80k | Federal |
| UNN Nsukka | Enugu State | ₦60k – ₦95k | Federal |
| UNIBEN | Edo State | ₦55k – ₦95k | Federal |
| GSU | Gombe State | ₦45k – ₦85k | State |
| NDU | Bayelsa State | ₦70k – ₦100k | State |
| ABSU | Abia State | ₦75k – ₦110k | State |
| OOU | Ogun State | ₦85k – ₦120k | State |
FAQs – Cheapest Medical Universities in Nigeria and Their Fees (2025)
Which university offers the cheapest MBBS program in Nigeria in 2025?
Ahmadu Bello University (ABU), Zaria currently offers the most affordable MBBS program in Nigeria.
Is medicine cheaper in federal or state universities?
Medicine is generally cheaper in federal universities, thanks to government subsidies.
Are the cheap medical schools well-equipped?
Yes. Most universities on this list have functional teaching hospitals and accredited faculties.
Can non-indigenes apply to state medical universities?
Yes, but non-indigenes may pay slightly higher tuition than residents of the host state.
How long does it take to study medicine in Nigeria?
The MBBS program in Nigeria usually takes 6 years, plus 1 year of internship and NYSC.
Final Thoughts: Cheapest Medical Universities in Nigeria and Their Fees (2025)
Studying medicine in Nigeria doesn’t have to cost millions. The top 10 cheapest medical universities in Nigeria in 2025 offer affordable tuition, recognized qualifications, and access to real-life medical training.
If you’re passionate about becoming a doctor and want to cut costs without compromising on quality, these schools are your best option. Choose wisely, prepare for a competitive admission process, and start your medical journey today.