The Nigerian university system is one of the most prestigious in Africa. It has produced many talented students, who have gone on to make their mark in various fields including politics, business and entertainment. The topic of private universities in Nigeria has always been a big one owing to their respective standards as compared to their public counterparts.
This list of top-ranking private universities in Nigeria was not compiled randomly. A thorough and organized research was carried out and ranking was given based on certain factors as:
- Academic standards
- Facilities
- Location
- Cost
- Reputation
Table of Contents
Top 10 Private Universities in Nigeria
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Redeemer’s University
Redeemer’s University (RU), a private university located in Ede, Osun, off Ibadan-Osogbo road, Osun State is one of the most renowned institutions in Nigeria. It was established in 2005 and is owned by the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG).
The university has a student population of over 8000 including both male and female students from various parts of Nigeria as well as other African countries like Uganda, Kenya etc.
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American University of Nigeria
American University of Nigeria (AUN) is a private university located in Yola, Adamawa State, Nigeria. It was established in 2004, today, AUN has over 15000 students enrolled across all majors including engineering, science and business administration; law; education; information technology management; agriculture as well as many others.
The university has been accredited by the National Universities Commission (NUC) since 2008 – making it one of the best private universities in Nigeria today with high quality teaching facilities available to them all year round!
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Babcock University
Babcock University is a private university located in Ikenne, Ogun State. It is the only private university in Nigeria that offers a bachelor’s degree in Education. The university was founded in 1959 and has grown to become one of the most reputable institutions of higher learning in Nigeria today.
Babcock University was ranked among the top 100 universities worldwide as well as being included on several lists such as Forbes’ “Best Value Colleges” list and Businessweek’s “Top 100 Universities for Internship Placement Opportunities”.
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Bowen University
Bowen University is a private university located in Iwo, Osun State. It was founded in 2001 and offers undergraduate degree programs. The university has been ranked 3rd in the 2019 edition of Best Universities in Nigeria by Times Higher Education.
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Igbinedion University
Igbinedion University is a private university in Okada, Benin City, Edo State, Nigeria. The university was established in 1999 by Sir Joseph Igbinedion CFR, a billionaire, philanthropist and a prominent Benin Chief. The school has three campuses; Main campus, College of Health Sciences campus and the Crown Estate.
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Covenant University
Covenant University is a Private University in Ota, Ogun State, Nigeria with official operating status since 2002. It is affiliated with Living Faith Church Worldwide and is a member of the Association of Commonwealth Universities. The University offers undergraduate programs leading up to master’s degrees and postgraduate diploma.
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Madonna University
Madonna University is a private university located in Okija, Anambra State, Nigeria. It was established on 10th May, 1999. Madonna University offers courses up to Bachelor’s degrees and Master’s degrees in various disciplines including: Law, Management, Natural Sciences, Social Sciences, Medicine, Pharmacy and Engineering.
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The African University of Science and Technology
The African University of Science and Technology (AUST) is a private university located in Galadima, Abuja, Nigeria. It was established in 2007. The main aim of this school is to advance the status of science and technology by establishing centers where research will be carried out locally; promote local industries; create jobs for young people, etc. The school offers only graduate level programs.
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Crawford University
Crawford university is a Private university in Nigeria that was founded by Late Rev. Paul Akazue in 2005, and is located in Igbesa, Ogun State, Nigeria. The Apostolic Faith Mission owns the university and has a student population of about 1500 students with an undergraduate program that offers degrees in science, arts and commerce.
It is accredited by the National Universities Commission (NUC).
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Nile University
Nile University is a private university in Nigeria. It was established in 2009 and is located in Abuja, Nigeria. The university has been ranked among the best 50 universities in Africa by Times Higher Education (THE) magazine for the period 2010-2011.
The university offers undergraduate and postgraduate programs across six faculties.
Final Thoughts on Top Private Universities in Nigeria
However, there are other top private universities in Nigeria, but, this article was only focused on the top 10 based on some metrics available to us, if you are looking for where to begin, click on the link on any of the schools mentioned above to study their brochure, know their fees and plan on having a rewarding experience with any of them.