Education is a cornerstone of professional development, and nursing is a highly respected field in Nigeria. The top 10 nursing colleges in Nigeria offer quality training, affordable tuition, and strong academic standards. Institutions such as the University of Ibadan (UI), the University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN), and Ahmadu Bello University (ABU) are renowned for their competitive cut-off marks and practical clinical experience. This article provides a comprehensive ranking based on fees, cut-off points, and what students can expect from each program.
Key Takeaways
- The University of Benin is among the best universities for nursing, offering strong clinical training with affordable fees ranging from ₦88,250 to ₦119,200 per session.
- The University of Ibadan is a top nursing school in Nigeria, known for strong academics, a JAMB cut-off score of 200, and affordable fees ranging from ₦218,050 to ₦355,550 per year.
- The University of Lagos offers access to top urban clinical training and modern facilities, with fees ranging from ₦140,250 to ₦190,250 per session.
- Ahmadu Bello University is a leading Northern institution for nursing, with a JAMB cut-off of 180 and tuition ranging from ₦74,000 to ₦78,875.
Top 10 Nursing Colleges in Nigeria and Their Fees
To rank the top nursing colleges in Nigeria, we reviewed teaching quality, clinical training facilities, infrastructure, and the overall learning and research environment. Data was sourced from official institutional portals, the Nursing and Midwifery Council of Nigeria (NMCN), and reliable educational repositories. However, academic fees may change with new sessions.
| University | Cutoff Point | Tuition Fee per Session |
|---|---|---|
| University of Ibadan (UI) | 200 | ₦218,050–₦355,550 |
| Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU) | 200 | ₦128,200–₦190,000 |
| University of Lagos (UNILAG) | 200 | ₦140,250–₦190,250 |
| University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN) | 200 | ₦243,900 |
| Ahmadu Bello University (ABU) | 180 | ₦74,000–₦78,875 |
| Babcock University | 170 | ₦1.15 million–₦1.48 million |
| Afe Babalola University (ABUAD) | 180 | ₦2.6 million–₦3.3 million |
| University of Benin (UNIBEN) | 200 | ₦88,250–₦119,200 |
| Bayero University Kano (BUK) | 180 | ₦140,500–₦151,300 |
| Nile University of Nigeria | 180 | Exceeds ₦2.5 million |
10. Nile University of Nigeria
Nile University offers premium nursing education with modern facilities and a global career focus. Founded in 2009, it is located in Abuja, FCT. Admission requires a JAMB score of around 180, and annual tuition exceeds ₦2.5 million. Students benefit from international partnerships and accelerated learning pathways.
9. Bayero University Kano (BUK)
BUK provides affordable nursing education with a community health focus. Established in 1975 in Kano, it charges tuition of ₦151,300 for fresh students and ₦140,500 for returning students. The JAMB cut-off is 180. The program emphasizes preventive care and practical responses to local health challenges.
8. University of Benin (UNIBEN)
UNIBEN is known for producing clinically skilled nurses. Founded in 1970 in Benin City, it has a JAMB cut-off of 200 and tuition ranging from ₦88,250 to ₦119,200. Students gain hands-on experience at the University of Benin Teaching Hospital through clinical rotations in surgical, emergency, and general nursing care.
7. Afe Babalola University (ABUAD)
ABUAD offers modern nursing training with strong clinical exposure. Located in Ado-Ekiti, it requires a JAMB score of around 180 and charges tuition between ₦2.6 million and ₦3.3 million. The program includes advanced training at a multispecialty teaching hospital, focusing on practical competence and international standards.
6. Babcock University
Babcock University is a leading private institution with a structured academic calendar. Founded in 1959 in Ilishan-Remo, it has a JAMB cut-off of 170 and tuition averaging ₦1.15 million to ₦1.48 million. Students use advanced simulation labs and teaching hospitals, with a values-based learning system emphasizing professional ethics.
5. Ahmadu Bello University (ABU)
ABU offers one of the most affordable nursing programs in Nigeria. Established in 1962 in Zaria, tuition ranges from ₦74,000 to ₦78,875. The JAMB cut-off is 180. Students train in both urban and rural healthcare settings, preparing for a wide range of health challenges.
4. University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN)
UNN is a major center for nursing education in Eastern Nigeria. Founded in 1955, it requires a JAMB cut-off of 200, though actual entry scores are often higher. Tuition is about ₦243,900. Students receive intensive clinical exposure at the University of Nigeria Teaching Hospital, with a focus on professionalism and ethical practice.
3. University of Lagos (UNILAG)
UNILAG offers a competitive nursing program in Nigeria's commercial hub. Established in 1962, it requires a JAMB score of at least 200. Tuition ranges from ₦140,250 to ₦190,250. Clinical training at the Lagos University Teaching Hospital exposes students to a high volume of diverse medical cases, developing speed and decision-making skills.
2. Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU)
OAU is renowned for its rigorous nursing training. Founded in 1962 in Ile-Ife, it has a JAMB cut-off of 200, but actual scores are often higher. Tuition ranges from ₦128,200 to ₦190,000. The curriculum blends classroom instruction with extensive hospital and community-based practice, emphasizing public health nursing.
1. University of Ibadan (UI)
UI is widely regarded as Nigeria's top nursing school. Founded in 1948, it has a JAMB cut-off of 200, though successful candidates often need higher scores. Fees range from ₦218,050 to ₦355,550. Clinical training at the University College Hospital Ibadan, one of West Africa's leading teaching hospitals, exposes students to complex medical cases, strengthening practical skills.
What Is the Best College of Nursing in Nigeria?
The University of Ibadan is consistently ranked as Nigeria's best institution for nursing due to its long-standing academic excellence and integration with the University College Hospital.
What Is the Cut-Off Mark for Nursing in JAMB 2026?
Although the official 2026 JAMB minimum for Nursing is 150, most universities set higher cut-off marks, ranging from 180 to 200, due to heavy competition. Candidates are advised to target at least 200 to improve their chances.
What Is the Best School of Nursing in Nigeria Without JAMB?
There is no single officially recognized best school of nursing in Nigeria that operates without JAMB. All accredited programs require JAMB for admission to degree programs.
The top 10 nursing colleges in Nigeria offer a wide range of academic and clinical pathways across federal, state, and private institutions. These schools differ in affordability, competitiveness, and hospital-based exposure, but all maintain accredited standards set by the Nursing and Midwifery Council of Nigeria.
