Best and Lowest Tuition Fee Universities in Nigeria (2025/2026)

Public universities in Nigeria tend to have lower tuition fees compared to private universities, but some private institutions also offer relatively affordable programs. This article will explore universities with the lowest tuition fees, their school fees, and other essential details.

Factors to Consider When Choosing an Affordable University

Before selecting a university based on its affordability, here are some key factors to consider:

1. Accreditation: Ensure that the university is accredited by the National Universities Commission (NUC).

2. Available Courses: Verify that your preferred course is available and properly accredited.

3. Facilities and Learning Environment: An affordable university should still provide good academic and social amenities.

4. Cost of Living: Consider the cost of living in the city where the university is located.

Top 10 Lowest Tuition Fee Universities in Nigeria (2025/2026)

1. University of Ibadan (UI)

1. Tuition Fee: ₦30,000 – ₦40,000 per session

2. Location: Oyo State

3. Popular Courses: Medicine, Law, Engineering, Business Administration

4. Why Choose UI? It is Nigeria’s premier university, known for academic excellence and research.

2. Ahmadu Bello University (ABU), Zaria

1. Tuition Fee: ₦27,000 – ₦45,000 per session

2. Location: Kaduna State

3. Popular Courses: Engineering, Medicine, Social Sciences, Agriculture

4. Why Choose ABU? One of the largest and most prestigious universities in Northern Nigeria.

3. University of Lagos (UNILAG)

1. Tuition Fee: ₦50,000 – ₦70,000 per session

2. Location: Lagos State

3. Popular Courses: Law, Business Administration, Computer Science, Mass Communication

4. Why Choose UNILAG? A top university in Nigeria with a strong reputation in academics and research.

4. Bayero University, Kano (BUK)

1. Tuition Fee: ₦30,000 – ₦50,000 per session

2. Location: Kano State

3. Popular Courses: Medicine, Law, Agriculture, Business Administration

4. Why Choose BUK? Known for affordable tuition and quality education.

5. University of Benin (UNIBEN)

1. Tuition Fee: ₦45,000 – ₦75,000 per session

2. Location: Edo State

3. Popular Courses: Engineering, Law, Arts, Sciences

4. Why Choose UNIBEN? Offers excellent academic programs with reasonable tuition fees.

6. Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta (FUNAAB)

1. Tuition Fee: ₦32,000 – ₦42,000 per session

2. Location: Ogun State

3. Popular Courses: Agriculture, Engineering, Veterinary Medicine

4. Why Choose FUNAAB? One of the best agricultural universities in Nigeria.

7. Usmanu Danfodiyo University, Sokoto (UDUSOK)

1. Tuition Fee: ₦27,000 – ₦40,000 per session

2. Location: Sokoto State

3. Popular Courses: Medicine, Pharmacy, Social Sciences, Islamic Studies

4. Why Choose UDUSOK? Offers low tuition fees and quality education.

8. Federal University of Technology, Minna (FUTMINNA)

1. Tuition Fee: ₦45,000 – ₦65,000 per session

2. Location: Niger State

3. Popular Courses: Engineering, Environmental Sciences, Information Technology

4. Why Choose FUTMINNA? Known for its strong focus on technology and innovation.

9. Federal University, Oye-Ekiti (FUOYE)

1. Tuition Fee: ₦48,000 – ₦75,000 per session

2. Location: Ekiti State

3. Popular Courses: Arts, Engineering, Management, Sciences

4. Why Choose FUOYE? Offers quality education with relatively low fees.

10. University of Calabar (UNICAL)

1. Tuition Fee: ₦35,000 – ₦55,000 per session

2. Location: Cross River State

3. Popular Courses: Education, Law, Medical Sciences, Business Administration

4. Why Choose UNICAL? Known for its affordable tuition and diverse programs.

Affordable Private Universities in Nigeria (2025/2026)

While private universities generally have higher tuition fees, some offer affordable programs. Here are a few low-cost private universities:

1. Oduduwa University, Ipetumodu

1. Tuition Fee: ₦195,000 – ₦250,000 per session

2. Location: Osun State

3. Why Choose Oduduwa University? Offers quality education at a lower cost compared to most private universities.

2. Ajayi Crowther University (ACU)

1. Tuition Fee: ₦200,000 – ₦300,000 per session

2. Location: Oyo State

3. Why Choose ACU? A faith-based university with relatively affordable fees.

3. Al-Hikmah University

1. Tuition Fee: ₦180,000 – ₦350,000 per session

2. Location: Kwara State

3. Why Choose Al-Hikmah? An Islamic-based institution with affordable tuition.

4. Bells University of Technology

1. Tuition Fee: ₦250,000 – ₦350,000 per session

2. Location: Ogun State

3. Why Choose Bells University? Focuses on technology and innovation with reasonable fees.

Tips for Reducing the Cost of University Education in Nigeria

1. Apply for Scholarships: Many universities offer merit-based and need-based scholarships.

2. Consider Work-Study Programs: Some institutions allow students to work while studying.

3. Choose Public Universities: Federal and state universities generally have lower tuition fees.

4. Cut Living Expenses: Living in school hostels or choosing cheaper accommodation can help reduce costs.

Success Stories: Testimonies from Students

1. Ibrahim Yusuf – Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria

“I almost gave up on my dream of higher education due to financial difficulties. Thankfully, ABU offered an affordable tuition fee, and I was able to complete my engineering degree. Today, I work as a software engineer at a multinational company!”

2. Chidinma Okonkwo – University of Ibadan

“Studying at UI was a dream come true. With a tuition fee of just ₦35,000 per session, I was able to graduate debt-free while receiving one of the best educations in Nigeria.”

3. Adebayo Samuel – FUTMINNA

“I was looking for an affordable university with strong engineering programs, and FUTMINNA was the perfect choice. The fees were reasonable, and the quality of education was outstanding.”

4. Hauwa Mohammed – Bayero University, Kano

“BUK provided me with an excellent learning experience without financial strain. I graduated in Business Administration and secured a great job even before my NYSC.”

5. Nneka Peters – UNIBEN

“As a single mother, I needed an affordable university that would allow me to work and study. UNIBEN was the best choice, and today, I run my own business!”

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What are the cheapest universities in Nigeria in 2025/2026?

Some of the cheapest universities include Ahmadu Bello University, University of Ibadan, University of Lagos, and Bayero University, Kano.

2. Can I get scholarships to study at these affordable universities?

Yes, many public universities offer merit-based and need-based scholarships. Check each university’s website for available opportunities.

3. Are these low-cost universities recognized internationally?

Yes, universities like UI, UNILAG, and ABU are internationally recognized and produce graduates who excel globally.

4. What is the cost of living in these university locations?

Cities like Lagos and Ibadan have higher living costs, while places like Sokoto and Minna are more affordable.

5. Do these universities offer part-time or online programs?

Yes, many of these universities offer part-time and online programs for students who want flexibility.

6. How do I apply to these universities?

Applications are done through JAMB and the university portals. Check the official website of each university for specific requirements.

7. Do private universities have affordable tuition fees?

Some private universities like Oduduwa University and Ajayi Crowther University offer lower tuition fees compared to others.

Conclusion

If you are looking for the best and lowest tuition fee universities in Nigeria for 2025/2026, this guide provides an overview of the most affordable options. Whether you choose a federal, state, or private university, ensure it aligns with your academic and career goals.