Education is your key to the future, but some doors lead to dead ends. Choosing a university is one of the biggest decisions you’ll make for your future.
Illegal universities in Nigeria operate without NUC accreditation and offer false promises and even falser degrees. As the NUC continues its 2025 crackdown, avoiding the traps of illegal universities is more important than ever.
However, this post comprises the complete list of all NUC unaccredited (Illegal) Universities in Nigeria.
Sadly, graduates from these universities face serious hurdles, like not being able to pursue further education, secure jobs, or even participate in the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC).
Imagine spending years studying, only to find out your degree isn’t worth the paper it’s printed on. This is the harsh reality for many unsuspecting students.
What’s an Illegal University?
Illegal universities are institutions that operate without NUC accreditation. These schools often promise degrees but can’t deliver the value that comes with them.
Think of it like buying a fake designer bag, it may look good at first, but when it matters, you’ll realize it’s worthless.
Many universities run unauthorized satellite campuses or claim affiliation with foreign institutions.
But remember, just because a university name sounds impressive doesn’t mean it’s legitimate. Always verify before you commit.
Take the case of Chriss Adams, a student who spent four years studying at what he thought was a recognized institution.
But when it was time to apply for NYSC, he found out the hard way that his degree wasn’t recognized. Job opportunities? Gone. Further education? Blocked. Don’t let this happen to you.
List of NUC Unaccredited Universities in Nigeria 2025
Here is the full list of illegal universities in Nigeria as released by the National Universities Commission (NUC) for 2025. These institutions operate without proper accreditation and are considered illegal by the NUC.
Students are advised to avoid these schools:
- University of Applied Sciences and Management, Port Novo, Republic of Benin (and campuses in Nigeria)
- Blacksmith University, Awka, Anambra State
- Volta University College, Ho, Ghana (and campuses in Nigeria)
- Royal University, Abakaliki, Ebonyi State
- Atlanta University, Anyigba, Kogi State
- United Christian University, Macotis Campus, Imo State
- United Nigeria University College, Okija, Anambra State
- Samuel Ahmadu University, Makurdi, Benue State
- UNESCO University, Ndoni, Rivers State
- Saint Augustine’s University of Technology, Jos, Plateau State
- The International University, Missouri, USA (campuses in Nigeria)
- Columbus University, UK (campuses in Nigeria)
- Tiu International University, UK (campuses in Nigeria)
- Pebbles University, UK (campuses in Nigeria)
- London External Studies, UK (campuses in Nigeria)
- Pilgrims University, Nigeria
- Lobi Business School, Makurdi, Benue State
- West African Christian University, Nigeria
- Bolta University College, Aba, Abia State
- JBC Seminary Inc. (Wukari Jubilee University), Kaduna (illegal campus)
- Western University, Esie, Kwara State
- St. Andrews University College, Abuja
- EC-Council USA (Ikeja, Lagos Study Centre)
- Atlas University, Uyo, Akwa Ibom State
- Concept College/Universities (London), Ilorin, Nigeria
- Halifax Gateway University, Ikeja, Lagos
- Kingdom of Christ University, Abuja
- Acada University, Akinlalu, Oyo State
- Filfom University, Mbaise, Imo State
- Houdegbe North American University (campuses in Nigeria)
- Atlantic Intercontinental University, Okija, Anambra State
- Open International University, Akure, Ondo State
- Middle Belt University (North Central University), Otukpo, Benue State
- Lead Way University, Ughelli, Delta State
- Metro University, Dutse/Bwari, Abuja
- Southend University, Rivers State
- Olympic University, Nsukka, Enugu State
- Federal College of Complementary and Alternative Medicine, Abuja
- Temple University, Abuja
- Irish University Business School, London (campuses in Nigeria)
- National University of Technology, Lafia, Nasarawa State
- University of Accountancy and Management Studies, Lagos and Mowe, Ogun State
- University of Education, Winneba, Ghana (campuses in Nigeria)
- Cape Coast University, Ghana (campuses in Nigeria)
- African University Cooperative Development (AUCD), Benin Republic (campuses in Nigeria)
- Pacific Western University, Denver, Colorado (Owerri Study Centre)
- Evangel University of America and Chudick Management Academy, Lagos
- Enugu State University of Science and Technology (illegal campus in Gboko)
- Career Light Resources Centre, Jos, Plateau State
- University of West Africa, Abuja, FCT
- Coastal University, Iba Oku, Akwa Ibom State
- Kaduna Business School, Kaduna
- Royal University of Theology, Minna, Niger State
- West African Union University (in collaboration with the International Professional College of Administration, Science, and Technology, Nigeria)
- Gospel Missionary Foundation (GMF) Theological University, Lagos
Furthermore, some universities, such as the University of Accountancy and Management Studies, operate multiple campuses nationwide, including Lagos and Mowe, despite repeated warnings.
DOWNLOAD PDF FILE: [List of Unaccredited Universities in Nigeria 2025}
How to Verify University Accreditation in Nigeria
Accreditation is a governmental process that ensures institutions meet educational standards. Unrecognized Universities in Nigeria are those without accreditation.
Degrees from these schools may not be accepted by employers or civil services, leading to significant challenges for graduates.
How to Simply Spot an Illegal University in Nigeria:
- Accreditation: Does the university appear on the official NUC accreditation list? Check before you apply.
- Campus Location: Be cautious of satellite campuses in Nigeria or online-only schools, especially those claiming foreign partnerships without proper documentation, this is one best ways to spot fake universities.
- Promises: If a school offers suspiciously fast or easy degrees, it’s probably too good to be true.
- Verify: Visit the NUC’s official website and use their institution checker tool. Don’t just take a school’s word for it, double-check it yourself [NUC Official University List 2025].
NUC Steps to Check University Accreditation
The NUC provides an easy way to verify the accreditation of universities in Nigeria. Follow these steps:
- Visit the official NUC website.
- Navigate to the ‘Accredited Institutions’ section.
- Search for the university by name to confirm its status.
- If the institution isn’t listed, contact the NUC for clarification. Always ensure you check before committing to any institution to avoid future complications.
NUC Warning on Illegal Universities in Nigeria
NUC urges parents and students to exercise caution and make sure the institution is registered and accredited by the commission to avoid education fraud in Nigeria.
Students are advised to stay away from any interaction with these institutions and to check the NUC’s official website for updates.
The NUC is already taking legal action against the owners of these illegal universities, prosecuting them, and shutting down operations, in 2024, the NUC closed down over 50 illegal universities in Nigeria.
However, that won’t help students who’ve already graduated with worthless degrees. Don’t be one of them.
Stay informed and steer clear of these fraudulent schools. Your degree should be more than just a piece of paper, make sure it counts.
Suspected Universities Under Investigation 2025
In addition, some institutions are still under investigation or court action for fraud, which makes the Nigerian universities blacklist 2025.
- National University of Nigeria, Keffi, Nasarawa State
- Richmond Open University, Arochukwu, Abia State
- Volta University College, Aba, Abia State.
- Christ Alive Christian Seminary and University, Enugu
- Illegal Satellite Campuses of Ambrose Alli University.
- L.I.F.E Leadership University, Benin City, Edo State.
- West Coast University, Umuahia
- North Central University, Otukpo. Benue State
- Saint Clements University, Iyin Ekiti, Ekiti State
Note: To be clear, anyone who uses or receives a certificate from any of these illegal institutions does so at their own risk.
Certificates earned from these sources will not be accepted for NYSC, job, and future education purposes.
Why Do Some Institutions Lack Accreditation?
- New Institutions: Some universities are simply too new to have achieved accreditation.
- Financial or Operational Issues: Long-established institutions may lose accreditation due to financial troubles or other complications.
- Diploma Mills: Certain unaccredited schools are fraudulent and issue fake degrees.
- Religious Freedom: Some Bible colleges or seminaries opt out of accreditation, citing concerns over religious, academic, or political freedom.
- Legal Authorization ≠ Accreditation: In some cases (like the U.S.), schools may be legally authorized to operate but are still unaccredited. Legal permission doesn’t always equal educational legitimacy.
What’s the Risk?
Many unaccredited universities have names similar to accredited institutions, which can mislead students into believing they’re legitimate.
Degrees from these schools may not be recognized, leaving graduates stuck with useless qualifications. This is why verifying accreditation before enrolling is crucial.
How to Avoid Illegal Universities in Nigeria 2025
To avoid illegal universities in Nigeria, always verify the accreditation status of any institution before enrolling.
Check the official National Universities Commission (NUC) website for the most up-to-date list of accredited institutions.
Be wary of institutions offering unusually fast degrees, suspicious satellite campuses, or foreign affiliations without proper documentation. Research thoroughly and confirm with trusted sources.
Consequences of Attending Unaccredited Universities in Nigeria
Attending an unaccredited university in Nigeria can have severe consequences. Graduates may find their degrees unrecognized by employers, preventing them from securing jobs.
They could also be barred from further education and miss out on participation in the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC).
Legal recognition of a degree is vital for career and academic progression, so choosing an accredited institution is crucial.
Nigerian University Accreditation Status 2025
In 2025, the NUC will continue to update the accreditation status of Nigerian universities. Accreditation ensures that an institution meets academic and operational standards.
Prospective students must verify their chosen university’s accreditation status through the NUC’s online portal.
Schools without NUC approval risk delivering substandard education, leaving students with degrees that hold no value in the job market or academic field.
Recognized vs. Unrecognized Universities in Nigeria
Recognized universities in Nigeria are those accredited by the NUC, meaning they meet national standards for education quality, infrastructure, and faculty.
Unrecognized universities either lack accreditation or operate illegally. Verifying a university’s accreditation ensures you’re investing in a legitimate education.
Attending an unrecognized university can jeopardize a student’s future, as their degree will not be accepted by employers, government agencies, or for further studies.
Conclusion
In conclusion, illegal institutions remain a significant challenge in Nigeria, as highlighted by the NUC’s 2024/25 report.
These unaccredited universities exploit the demand for higher education, offering substandard programs and issuing certificates unrecognized by employers, NYSC, or further studies.
The NUC’s efforts to identify and shut down these universities, while raising awareness, are essential.
However, issues like regulatory gaps, corruption, and lack of public awareness allow these institutions to persist.
The NUC encourages students and families to verify accreditation on their website before enrolling to avoid becoming victims.
Tackling this issue requires stronger enforcement, public education, and collaboration with law enforcement to protect the integrity of Nigeria’s education system.
FAQs
1. What are illegal universities in Nigeria?
Illegal universities in Nigeria are institutions that do not have accreditation from the National Universities Commission (NUC).
They often offer degrees that are not recognized by employers, NYSC, or for further academic pursuits.
2. How can I verify if a university is accredited in Nigeria?
To verify a university’s accreditation status, visit the NUC’s official website and check their accredited institutions list. You can also contact the NUC directly to confirm an institution’s status.
3. What happens if I attend an unaccredited university in Nigeria?
Attending an unaccredited university can lead to your degree being unrecognized by employers, NYSC, and for further education. This can limit career opportunities and academic progression.
4. Are there penalties for attending illegal universities in Nigeria?
While attending an illegal university may not carry direct legal penalties, students can face long-term consequences, such as the inability to gain employment or pursue further studies.
Additionally, they may be misled into spending money and time on a degree with no value.
5. What should I do if I have already graduated from an unaccredited university?
If you’ve graduated from an unaccredited university, your options may be limited. You can check with the NUC or potential employers to explore if there are any pathways to recognition, though most employers and institutions will not accept unaccredited degrees.
6. Why do some universities in Nigeria remain unaccredited?
Some universities may not meet the NUC’s standards due to financial difficulties, mismanagement, or operational issues.
Others may choose not to seek accreditation for reasons related to their religious, academic, or political stance.
7. How does the NUC handle illegal universities in Nigeria?
The NUC actively identifies and shuts down unaccredited universities. They also work with law enforcement agencies to prosecute those involved in operating these illegal institutions and protect students from exploitation.
8. Can I apply for a job with a degree from an unaccredited university?
In most cases, degrees from unaccredited universities are not accepted by employers, especially in the public sector or for specialized jobs that require recognized qualifications.
9. Are there any consequences for universities operating without accreditation in Nigeria?
Yes, universities operating without accreditation may face legal actions, including being shut down or having their degrees rendered invalid.
The NUC is committed to eliminating such institutions to preserve the integrity of Nigeria’s higher education system.
10. How can I avoid enrolling in an illegal university?
Before enrolling, always verify the university’s accreditation status on the NUC website or contact the NUC directly.
Avoid schools that offer rapid degrees or operate suspicious satellite campuses without proper credentials.