Nigeria is home to many universities, both public and private, but the federal universities are particularly important. These institutions are funded by the Nigerian government and are scattered across the country, providing education to thousands of students each year.
In this article, we will take a look at some of the federal universities in Nigeria, focusing on their history, locations, and what makes them unique.
1. University of Ibadan (UI)
Established in 1948, the University of Ibadan is Nigeria’s oldest university. Located in the ancient city of Ibadan, Oyo State, it started as a college under the University of London. It became a full-fledged university in 1962. UI is well-known for its research and academic excellence, offering courses across many fields such as medicine, engineering, humanities, and social sciences.
2. University of Lagos (UNILAG)
Founded in 1962, the University of Lagos is located in the heart of Lagos, Nigeria’s commercial capital. UNILAG is one of the most popular universities in the country, attracting students from all over Nigeria and beyond. The university offers a wide range of courses in fields like law, business, engineering, and arts. It is also renowned for its urban setting and vibrant student life.
3. Ahmadu Bello University (ABU)
Ahmadu Bello University, located in Zaria, Kaduna State, was established in 1962. Named after one of Nigeria’s most prominent leaders, Sir Ahmadu Bello, it is one of the largest universities in Sub-Saharan Africa. ABU is famous for its extensive campus, which includes faculties of agriculture, medicine, engineering, and social sciences. The university plays a significant role in educating students from northern Nigeria.
4. Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU)
Obafemi Awolowo University, situated in Ile-Ife, Osun State, was founded in 1961 as the University of Ife. It was renamed in honor of the late Chief Obafemi Awolowo, one of Nigeria’s foremost nationalists and statesmen. OAU is recognized for its striking campus architecture and strong programs in humanities, sciences, and social sciences. It is also one of Nigeria’s most competitive universities in terms of admission.
5. University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN)
The University of Nigeria, Nsukka, was established in 1960 by Dr. Nnamdi Azikiwe, Nigeria’s first president. Located in Enugu State, UNN was the first university to be fully owned by the Nigerian government. The university is known for its innovative approach to education and for pioneering the development of several fields of study in Nigeria. It offers a wide range of courses, including agriculture, engineering, and law.
6. Federal University of Technology, Minna (FUTMINNA)
FUTMINNA, located in Niger State, is one of Nigeria’s specialized universities, focusing on technology and science-related courses. Established in 1983, the university aims to produce graduates who are skilled in technological innovation and research. FUTMINNA is known for its strong engineering and environmental sciences programs, and it plays a key role in advancing Nigeria’s technological development.
7. Bayero University, Kano (BUK)
Located in Kano, one of Nigeria’s largest cities, Bayero University was founded in 1975. Initially, it started as a college and later evolved into a full university. BUK offers programs in fields like medicine, arts, sciences, and engineering. The university serves as a major educational hub in northern Nigeria and attracts students from various parts of the country.
8. University of Abuja (UNIABUJA)
The University of Abuja was established in 1988 and is located in Nigeria’s capital city, Abuja. UNIABUJA is unique due to its proximity to the nation’s government and the opportunities this provides for students in fields like political science, law, and public administration. The university has both undergraduate and postgraduate programs and is known for its peaceful and scenic environment.
9. Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta (FUNAAB)
FUNAAB, located in Abeokuta, Ogun State, was established in 1988. As its name suggests, this university specializes in agricultural studies, focusing on producing graduates skilled in various aspects of agriculture, environmental management, and related fields. The university has contributed significantly to Nigeria’s agricultural sector, and its graduates are well-prepared to address the country’s food security challenges.
10. Nnamdi Azikiwe University (UNIZIK)
Nnamdi Azikiwe University, located in Awka, Anambra State, was named after Dr. Nnamdi Azikiwe. It was established in 1991 and has grown into one of Nigeria’s prominent federal universities. UNIZIK offers a wide range of courses in arts, sciences, engineering, and management sciences. It is well-known for its cultural diversity and academic excellence.
11. University of Benin (UNIBEN)
Located in Benin City, Edo State, the University of Benin was founded in 1970. It offers a variety of courses across different fields such as engineering, medicine, arts, and social sciences. UNIBEN is known for its academic excellence and cultural diversity.
12. Federal University of Technology, Akure (FUTA)
FUTA, located in Akure, Ondo State, was established in 1981. It is a specialized university focusing on technology and engineering courses. FUTA is recognized for its innovation in science and technology and has contributed significantly to Nigeria’s technological advancements.
13. Federal University, Oye-Ekiti (FUOYE)
Founded in 2011, FUOYE is located in Oye-Ekiti, Ekiti State. Despite being a relatively new institution, it has quickly gained a reputation for offering quality education in fields such as agriculture, engineering, and the arts.
14. Federal University of Petroleum Resources, Effurun (FUPRE)
FUPRE, established in 2007, is located in Delta State and focuses on training students for the oil and gas sector. It offers courses in engineering, technology, and sciences related to the petroleum industry.
15. Federal University of Technology, Owerri (FUTO)
Located in Owerri, Imo State, FUTO was established in 1980 as a specialized university focusing on science and technology. FUTO has a strong reputation for engineering and technological research, and it is one of the top universities in Nigeria for students interested in these fields.
16. Michael Okpara University of Agriculture, Umudike (MOUAU)
Located in Abia State, MOUAU was established in 1992 with a focus on agricultural research and education. The university plays a vital role in improving agricultural practices in Nigeria and offers courses in various agricultural fields, sciences, and engineering.
17. Federal University, Lokoja (FUL)
Established in 2011, FUL is located in Lokoja, Kogi State. It is part of the new generation of federal universities created to expand access to education in Nigeria. FUL offers undergraduate programs in various fields, including arts, sciences, and social sciences.
18. Federal University, Dutse (FUD)
Located in Jigawa State, FUD was established in 2011. It has quickly developed into a growing university with a focus on courses in sciences, agriculture, and social sciences.
19. Federal University, Lafia (FULafia)
Founded in 2010, FULafia is located in Nasarawa State. It offers programs in sciences, arts, and management, aiming to provide quality education to students in the North-Central region of Nigeria.
20. Federal University, Birnin Kebbi (FUBK)
FUBK, established in 2013, is located in Kebbi State. It offers undergraduate and postgraduate programs in fields such as agriculture, arts, sciences, and management, contributing to education and development in the northwestern part of Nigeria.
21. Federal University, Gashua (FUGA)
Located in Yobe State, FUGA was founded in 2013. It offers courses in fields such as agriculture, sciences, and social sciences. The university serves as an important educational institution in northeastern Nigeria.
22. Federal University, Wukari (FUW)
FUW was established in 2011 and is located in Taraba State. The university focuses on providing education in various fields, including agriculture, social sciences, and health sciences.
23. Federal University, Dutsin-Ma (FUDMA)
Located in Katsina State, FUDMA was founded in 2011. The university offers courses in arts, sciences, and agriculture, and is part of the Nigerian government’s efforts to increase access to education in northern Nigeria.
24. Federal University, Otuoke (FUO)
Established in 2011, FUO is located in Otuoke, Bayelsa State. The university offers a variety of programs in fields like social sciences, arts, and engineering, contributing to the educational development of the Niger Delta region.
25. Federal University, Kashere (FUK)
FUK, located in Gombe State, was founded in 2010. The university offers programs in fields such as arts, management sciences, and agriculture, helping to expand educational opportunities in northeastern Nigeria.
26. Federal University of Health Sciences, Otukpo (FUHSO)
FUHSO, located in Benue State, was established to specialize in health sciences. The university focuses on training healthcare professionals to meet Nigeria’s growing demand for medical personnel.
27. Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA)
Located in Kaduna, the Nigerian Defence Academy was founded in 1964 as a military institution responsible for training officers for the Nigerian Armed Forces. It also offers undergraduate and postgraduate degrees in various academic disciplines, including engineering, sciences, and the arts.
28. Federal University of Agriculture, Makurdi (FUAM)
Established in 1988, FUAM is located in Benue State and is one of the three specialized universities focusing on agriculture in Nigeria. The university offers a variety of programs in agricultural sciences, engineering, and environmental sciences.
29. Federal University of Technology, Yola (Modibbo Adama University of Technology, MAUTECH)
Located in Yola, Adamawa State, MAUTECH was established in 1981. It is one of the federal universities focused on technology and engineering. The university plays a key role in advancing technological research and education in northeastern Nigeria.
30. National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN)
NOUN was established in 1983, shut down in 1984, and reopened in 2002. It is the only university in Nigeria that operates primarily as an open and distance learning institution. NOUN provides flexible learning opportunities for students who cannot attend traditional universities.
31. Federal University, Gusau (FUGUS)
Located in Zamfara State, FUGUS was founded in 2013 as part of the federal government’s efforts to expand educational opportunities in northern Nigeria. The university offers a wide range of undergraduate programs in arts, sciences, and social sciences.
32. Air Force Institute of Technology (AFIT)
Located in Kaduna, AFIT is a specialized university affiliated with the Nigerian Air Force. It was established to train personnel in aviation technology and related fields. The institute offers degrees in engineering, sciences, and management.
33. Federal University of Health Sciences, Azare (FUHSA)
FUHSA, located in Bauchi State, is a new specialized university focused on health sciences. It was established to address Nigeria’s need for more healthcare professionals and offers programs in fields like medicine, nursing, and public health.
34. Nigerian Maritime University, Okerenkoko (NMU)
Established in 2018 and located in Delta State, NMU is a specialized university focused on maritime studies and related fields. It aims to produce graduates skilled in maritime technology, shipping, and marine engineering.
35. Federal University of Health Sciences, Ila Orangun (FUHSI)
Located in Osun State, FUHSI is a new addition to Nigeria’s federal universities, focusing on health sciences. It offers specialized programs in medicine, pharmacy, and other health-related fields.
36. Federal University, Ekiti (FUOYE)
Founded in 2011, FUOYE is one of the newer federal universities. It is located in Oye-Ekiti, Ekiti State, and has grown rapidly, offering courses in arts, engineering, social sciences, and management.
37. Federal University, Ndifu-Alike Ikwo (FUNAI)
FUNAI, also known as Alex Ekwueme Federal University, is located in Ebonyi State. Established in 2011, the university offers courses in fields like engineering, agriculture, and social sciences. It has quickly gained recognition for its academic excellence and research initiatives.
38. Federal University, Lokoja (FULOKOJA)
FULOKOJA is located in Kogi State and was established in 2011. It offers programs in sciences, social sciences, and humanities, contributing to the development of education in the North-Central region of Nigeria.
39. Federal University, Gashua (FUGA)
FUGA, located in Yobe State, was established in 2013. It offers courses in agriculture, arts, sciences, and management, serving the educational needs of northeastern Nigeria.
40. Federal University, Birnin Kebbi (FUBK)
Established in 2013, FUBK is located in Kebbi State and offers undergraduate programs in fields like agriculture, social sciences, and sciences.
41. Federal University of Education, Zaria
This university, located in Zaria, Kaduna State, focuses on teacher education and related fields. It is committed to producing qualified educators for the Nigerian education system.
42. Nigeria Police Academy, Wudil
The Nigeria Police Academy (NPA) is located in Wudil, Kano State, and is designed to train future police officers with higher education degrees. Established in 1988, the academy became a degree-awarding institution in 2012. It offers programs in various fields such as law, social sciences, and management, specifically tailored to prepare students for roles within the Nigeria Police Force.
43. Nigerian Defence Academy, Kaduna
The Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA), established in 1964, is located in Kaduna and serves as the training institution for officers in the Nigerian Armed Forces. The academy offers undergraduate and postgraduate degrees in a range of disciplines, including engineering, sciences, and military studies. It aims to build highly skilled military officers who will serve in the Nigerian Army, Navy, and Air Force.
44. Nigerian Army University, Biu
The Nigerian Army University (NAUB), located in Biu, Borno State, was established in 2018. This university is focused on providing military-related education, especially in engineering, information technology, and other scientific and technical fields that are vital to national security and development. The institution aims to produce graduates who will contribute to the development of Nigeria’s military technology.
45 Federal University of Health Technology, Otukpo, Benue State
The Federal University of Health Technology (FUHT) in Otukpo, Benue State, was established to provide specialized education in health and medical technology. This institution focuses on training students in health-related fields such as medical imaging, biomedical technology, and public health, aiming to improve healthcare delivery in Nigeria.
46. Federal University of Agriculture, Zuru, Kebbi State
The Federal University of Agriculture (FUAZ), located in Zuru, Kebbi State, was established to enhance agricultural education and research in Nigeria. The university aims to train professionals in agriculture, agribusiness, and related fields to boost food production and improve agricultural practices in the country. It focuses on practical training and research that can benefit rural and farming communities.
47. Federal University of Technology, Babura, Jigawa State
The Federal University of Technology (FUTB) in Babura, Jigawa State, was established to offer technical and scientific education. Like other technology-focused universities, FUTB aims to provide graduates with skills in areas like engineering, applied sciences, and technology, equipping them to contribute to Nigeria’s industrial development.
48. Federal University of Technology, Ikot Abasi, Akwa Ibom State
The Federal University of Technology (FUTIA) in Ikot Abasi, Akwa Ibom State, is another technology-focused university dedicated to developing technical skills in fields like engineering, environmental sciences, and information technology. This university is critical in producing graduates who can tackle challenges in infrastructure, technology, and industrial sectors.
49. Federal University of Health Sciences, Azare, Bauchi State
The Federal University of Health Sciences, Azare (FUHSA), located in Bauchi State, focuses on healthcare education, including medical sciences, nursing, and public health. Established to address the shortage of healthcare professionals in Nigeria, FUHSA plays a crucial role in training qualified healthcare providers who can meet the country’s medical needs.
50. Federal University of Health Sciences, Ila Orangun, Osun State
The Federal University of Health Sciences, Ila Orangun (FUHSI), located in Osun State, is dedicated to providing education in various health science disciplines. The university offers programs aimed at training professionals in medicine, pharmacy, and other health-related fields, addressing the increasing demand for healthcare workers in Nigeria.
51. David Nweze Umahi Federal University of Medical Sciences, Uburu
The David Nweze Umahi Federal University of Medical Sciences (DNUFUMS), located in Uburu, Ebonyi State, is one of Nigeria’s newest specialized universities. The institution is named after Governor David Umahi and is dedicated to producing top medical professionals in fields such as surgery, medicine, and other health-related specialties.
52. Federal University of Transportation, Daura, Katsina State
The Federal University of Transportation (FUTD) in Daura, Katsina State, is a unique institution focused on training professionals in the transportation sector. This university, the first of its kind in Nigeria, aims to provide education in logistics, railways, and other forms of transportation management, contributing to the development of Nigeria’s infrastructure and transportation systems.
Conclusion
As you can see, Nigeria has numerous federal universities spread across the country, each playing a crucial role in providing quality higher education. These institutions help ensure that students from various parts of the country have access to education in fields ranging from agriculture and engineering to health sciences and the arts. The Nigerian government’s commitment to expanding and improving higher education has led to the establishment of these federal universities, which continue to grow and contribute to national development.
In total, there are currently over 40 federal universities in Nigeria, and the list continues to expand. These universities provide students with access to affordable, high-quality education and are critical to the country’s educational development.