Nursing in Nigeria is a highly respected and fulfilling profession course. With the growing need for skilled healthcare professionals, enrolling in a reputable Nigerian university to study Nursing is an excellent option for those passionate about healthcare.
If you’re considering a career in Nursing, it’s essential to identify the universities offering this program for the 2025-2026 academic session.
This article offers a comprehensive list of universities in Nigeria that offer Nursing, along with admission requirements and tips for selecting the right school. Whether you’re considering federal, state, or private universities, this guide will assist you in making an informed decision
Describe Nursing
Nursing is a healthcare profession focused on the care of individuals, families, and communities to help them achieve, maintain, or recover optimal health and quality of life. Nurses are trained to provide medical care, emotional support, and health education while working collaboratively with doctors, surgeons, and other healthcare professionals.
Key Roles of Nursing
- Patient Care: Nurses assess patients’ health, monitor vital signs, administer medications, and manage care plans.
- Advocacy: Nurses advocate for patients’ rights and well-being in the healthcare system.
- Education: They provide health education to patients and their families on managing illnesses or adopting healthier lifestyles.
- Support: Offer emotional and psychological support to patients and families during difficult times.
- Collaboration: Work with other medical professionals to ensure coordinated and effective care.
Types of Nursing Specializations
- General Nursing: Provides overall care to patients in various settings.
- Midwifery: Focuses on pregnancy, childbirth, and postpartum care.
- Pediatric Nursing: Specializes in caring for children and adolescents.
- Psychiatric Nursing: Addresses mental health and psychiatric conditions.
- Community Health Nursing: Promotes health within communities and rural areas.
- Critical Care Nursing: Provides care for critically ill patients in intensive care units (ICUs).
Importance of Nursing
- Nurses form the backbone of healthcare systems worldwide.
- They act as frontline caregivers in hospitals, clinics, schools, homes, and community health centers.
- They play a significant role in preventing diseases, promoting health, and improving healthcare accessibility.
Why Choose Nursing?
Nursing is a rewarding and respected profession that combines medical expertise with compassionate care. It offers diverse career opportunities, job security, and the ability to make a positive impact on people’s lives every day.
Why Study Nursing in Nigeria?
Studying nursing in Nigeria is an excellent choice for those passionate about healthcare, as it offers a strong foundation for a rewarding career in a growing field. Here are some key reasons why pursuing a nursing degree in Nigeria is worthwhile:
1. High Demand for Nurses
- The demand for qualified nurses is consistently high in Nigeria due to population growth and healthcare challenges.
- Nurses are essential in hospitals, clinics, community health centers, and international organizations, making the profession highly employable.
2. Affordable Education
- Compared to other countries, nursing education in Nigeria is relatively affordable, especially in federal and state universities.
- Government institutions provide subsidized tuition fees, making it accessible to students from various financial backgrounds.
3. Accredited Institutions
- Nigeria has numerous universities and colleges accredited by the Nursing and Midwifery Council of Nigeria (NMCN) to offer nursing programs.
- These institutions ensure that students receive quality education and clinical training that meet international standards.
4. Diverse Career Opportunities
- A nursing degree opens doors to various specialties, such as midwifery, pediatric nursing, community health, public health, and more.
- Nigerian-trained nurses can also work internationally, provided they pass the necessary licensing exams like NCLEX, CGFNS, or IELTS.
5. Contribution to Community Health
- Studying nursing in Nigeria allows students to play a vital role in improving healthcare within local communities.
- Nurses are at the forefront of managing diseases, promoting health education, and addressing healthcare inequalities.
6. Access to Practical Training
- Nigerian nursing schools are affiliated with teaching hospitals and clinics where students gain hands-on experience in real-world healthcare settings.
- This clinical exposure equips students with the skills and confidence needed to succeed in their careers.
7. Cultural Relevance
- Nursing programs in Nigeria address local health challenges, including tropical diseases and maternal health issues, preparing graduates to meet the country’s unique healthcare needs.
8. Global Opportunities
- Nigerian-trained nurses are recognized internationally and can pursue further studies or careers abroad.
- With additional certifications, they can secure jobs in countries like the UK, USA, Canada, and Australia.
9. Job Stability and Security
- Nursing is a stable and respected profession with consistent job opportunities in both urban and rural areas.
- Many nurses enjoy job security and long-term career growth.
10. Ability to Make a Difference
- Nursing is not just a job—it’s a calling. Studying nursing in Nigeria gives you the chance to impact lives by providing care and support to those in need.
List of Universities That Offering Nursing in Nigeria 2025
Here’s a list of some of the best universities in Nigeria offering Nursing programs for the 2025–2026 academic session. These universities are known for their accreditation, quality of education, and well-equipped facilities:
Federal Universities
These are government-funded universities known for affordability and high standards:
1. University of Ibadan (UI) – Oyo State
2. University of Nigeria (UNN) – Enugu State
3. Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU) – Osun State
4. University of Lagos (UNILAG) – Lagos State
5. Ahmadu Bello University (ABU) – Kaduna State
6. University of Ilorin (UNILORIN) – Kwara State
7. University of Benin (UNIBEN) – Edo State
8. University of Calabar (UNICAL) – Cross River State
9. University of Maiduguri (UNIMAID) – Borno State
10. Bayero University Kano (BUK) – Kano State
2. State Universities
State-owned universities combine affordability with access to modern facilities:
11. Delta State University (DELSU) – Delta State
12. Osun State University (UNIOSUN) – Osun State
13. Rivers State University (RSU) – Rivers State
14. Imo State University (IMSU) – Imo State
15. Ekiti State University (EKSU) – Ekiti State
16. Ebonyi State University (EBSU) – Ebonyi State
17. Abia State University (ABSU) – Abia State
18. Ladoke Akintola University of Technology (LAUTECH) – Oyo State
19. Kogi State University (KSU) – Kogi State
20. Ambrose Alli University (AAU) – Edo State
3. Private Universities
Private universities often have modern facilities, smaller class sizes, and uninterrupted academic calendars:
21. Babcock University – Ogun State
22. Afe Babalola University (ABUAD) – Ekiti State
23. Bowen University – Osun State
24. Bingham University – Nasarawa State
25. Madonna University – Enugu State
26. Lead City University – Oyo State
27. Igbinedion University – Edo State
28. Achievers University – Ondo State
29. Ajayi Crowther University – Oyo State
30. Adeleke University – Osun State
4. Specialized Institutions
These universities and colleges are specifically focused on health sciences and medical education:
31. University of Medical Sciences (UNIMED) – Ondo State
32. Nigerian Army College of Nursing – Lagos State
33. Oyo State College of Nursing and Midwifery – Oyo State
34. Kaduna State College of Nursing and Midwifery – Kaduna State
Why These Universities Are the Best
1. Accreditation: All listed universities are accredited by the Nursing and Midwifery Council of Nigeria (NMCN).
2. Quality of Facilities: Many have state-of-the-art laboratories, teaching hospitals, and simulation centers.
3. Reputation: They are known for producing well-trained nursing professionals.
4. Wide Range of Opportunities: Their programs prepare students for diverse career paths in nursing and healthcare.
5. Diverse Clinical Exposure: These universities often have partnerships with leading teaching hospitals
Admission Requirements For Universities That Offer Nursing in Nigeria
To gain admission into a Nursing program in Nigerian universities, you must meet specific academic and general requirements. Below is a detailed outline of these requirements for both UTME (Undergraduate) and Direct Entry applicants:
1. General Admission Requirements
- O’Level Requirements (WAEC/NECO/NABTEB): You must have at least 5 credit passes in relevant subjects, which include English Language, Mathematics, Biology, Chemistry, Physics, and
these credits must be obtained in not more than two sittings.
2. For UTME (Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination) Candidates
- UTME Subject Combination: You are required to write the following subjects in your UTME: English Language (Compulsory), Biology, Chemistry, and Physics.
- JAMB Score: A minimum JAMB score of 200–250 is generally required (depending on the university). Some competitive universities may have higher cut-off marks.
- Post-UTME: Many universities conduct Post-UTME screening. You must participate in and perform well in this screening to secure admission.
3. For Direct Entry Applicants
If you’re applying through Direct Entry, you must meet one or more of the following requirements:
- A minimum of two A-Level passes in Biology, Chemistry, or Physics.
- A Registered Nurse (RN) certificate from a recognized Nursing School, approved by the Nursing and Midwifery Council of Nigeria (NMCN).
- A National Diploma (ND) or Higher National Diploma (HND) in a related field, with an Upper Credit or Distinction.
- A Bachelor’s Degree in a related discipline (e.g., Anatomy, Physiology) with a minimum of a Second Class Lower.
4. Age Requirement
- Candidates must be at least 16 years old by the time of admission.
5. Other Requirements
- Medical Fitness: Most universities require candidates to present proof of medical fitness before admission.
- Interview/Screening: Some institutions conduct interviews or oral screenings to assess candidates’ suitability for the program.
6. Duration of the Nursing Program
- BSc Nursing Science: 5 years for UTME students.
- Direct Entry: 4 years.
Tips for Admission Success For Universities That Offer Nursing in Nigeria
1. Aim for a high score in both JAMB and Post-UTME to increase your chances, especially for competitive universities.
2. Ensure that your O’Level results are complete and meet the required grades.
3. If applying through Direct Entry, have the necessary qualifications ready, including professional certifications like RN or RM.
FAQs
How Do I Know If a University is Accredited for Nursing in Nigeria?
Ensure the university is accredited by the Nursing and Midwifery Council of Nigeria (NMCN) and the National Universities Commission (NUC). You can verify this by checking their official websites or contacting the university’s nursing department.
What Are the Best Universities for Studying Nursing in Nigeria?
Some of the best universities for nursing in Nigeria include:
- University of Ibadan (UI)
- University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN)
- Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU)
- University of Lagos (UNILAG)
- Ahmadu Bello University (ABU)
These institutions are well-known for their academic excellence and advanced clinical training facilities.
What is the Difference Between Federal, State, and Private Universities for Nursing?
- Federal Universities: More affordable and highly competitive (e.g., UI, UNILAG, ABU).
- State Universities: Moderately priced but may vary in quality depending on the state (e.g., UNIOSUN, DELSU).
- Private Universities: More expensive, smaller class sizes, modern facilities, and uninterrupted academic calendars (e.g., Babcock University, Afe Babalola University).
What is the JAMB Cut-off Mark for Nursing in Nigeria?
The general cut-off mark for Nursing programs ranges from 200–250 depending on the university. Competitive universities like UI and UNILAG may require higher scores.
What is the Duration of Nursing in Nigeria?
- Undergraduate Program (BSc Nursing Science): 5 years for UTME candidates.
- Direct Entry Program: 4 years for candidates with prior qualifications like RN or HND.
What Clinical Training Facilities Should I Look for in a Nursing University?
Ensure the university has access to:
- A teaching hospital or affiliated clinical centers.
- Simulation labs for hands-on training.
- Partnerships with reputable hospitals for internships and practical exposure.
Are There Specialized Nursing Programs in Nigeria?
Yes, some universities offer specialized programs or postgraduate nursing fields such as:
- Midwifery
- Public Health Nursing
- Pediatric Nursing
- Critical Care Nursing
Can I Study Nursing at a Private University in Nigeria?
Yes, private universities like Babcock University, Afe Babalola University, and Bowen University offer Nursing programs. These institutions often provide modern facilities, smaller class sizes, and uninterrupted academic calendars.
What are the Admission Requirements for Nursing in Nigerian Universities?
- O’Level: 5 credit passes in English Language, Mathematics, Biology, Chemistry, and Physics.
- UTME Subjects: English Language, Biology, Chemistry, and Physics.
- Direct Entry: RN certificate or A-Level passes in Biology, Chemistry, or Physics.
Can Nigerian Nurses Work Internationally After Graduation?
Yes, Nigerian-trained nurses can work abroad after meeting the requirements for licensing exams like NCLEX (USA), CGFNS, or NMC UK registration.
Which Universities Have the Best Teaching Hospitals for Nursing?
Universities with highly regarded teaching hospitals include:
- University of Ibadan (UCH – University College Hospital)
- University of Lagos (LUTH – Lagos University Teaching Hospital)
- Obafemi Awolowo University (OAUTHC – Obafemi Awolowo University Teaching Hospitals Complex)
- Ahmadu Bello University (ABUTH – Ahmadu Bello University Teaching Hospital).
What Makes Nursing a Good Career Choice in Nigeria?
- High demand for healthcare professionals.
- Diverse career opportunities in hospitals, community health, teaching, and research.
- International opportunities with professional certifications.
What is the Difference Between BSc Nursing and RN in Nigeria?
- BSc Nursing: A 4–5 year university program that combines theory, clinical practice, and research. Graduates receive a degree and nursing license.
- Registered Nurse (RN): A diploma program from a school of nursing, usually 3 years, focused on practical skills and clinical training.
Can I Apply for Nursing in Nigeria Through Direct Entry?
Yes, you can apply for Nursing through Direct Entry if you have:
- A Registered Nurse (RN) certificate.
- A relevant diploma or A-Level qualifications in Biology, Chemistry, or Physics.
What Are the Job Prospects After Studying Nursing in Nigeria?
Nursing graduates can work in:
- Hospitals and clinics.
- Community health centers.
- Teaching and research institutions.
- NGOs and international organizations.
In Conclusion
Nursing in Nigeria is a rewarding career choice, and the universities mentioned above offer top-notch programs for the 2025-2026 academic year. Whether you’re looking for a private, public, or federal university, you’ll find options that meet your needs.
You can succeed in nursing and have a positive impact on Nigeria’s healthcare system if you put in the necessary effort, prepare for your exams, and choose a university that supports your goals.
