Nigeria’s higher education scene is evolving rapidly—and private universities are leading the charge. As public institutions grapple with strikes, overcrowded classes, and underfunding, many students are turning to private options that offer better infrastructure, global standards, and uninterrupted academic calendars.
In this blog post, we’re diving into the top private universities in Nigeria in 2025, using recent data from leading ranking bodies like the AD Scientific Index, Times Higher Education (THE), and UniRank. Whether you’re a student, parent, or education enthusiast, this guide will help you understand which institutions truly shine in 2025.
Why the Rankings Matter More Than Ever
As of 2025, Nigeria has over 121 accredited private universities, according to the National Universities Commission (NUC). These institutions vary in quality, focus, and affordability. Some are world-class research hubs, while others specialize in medicine, agriculture, or entrepreneurship.
Choosing a university isn’t just about prestige; it’s about value, quality, and outcomes. That’s why rankings matter. They help cut through the noise by evaluating institutions based on research output, graduate employability, academic reputation, and teaching quality.
Top 5 Private Universities in Nigeria for 2025
Using 2025 data from the AD Scientific Index and Times Higher Education (THE), these are the undisputed top 5 private universities in Nigeria:
| Rank | University Name | Location |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Covenant University | Ota, Ogun State |
| 2 | Maryam Abacha American University of Nigeria | Kano, Kano State |
| 3 | Afe Babalola University (ABUAD) | Ado-Ekiti, Ekiti State |
| 4 | Redeemer’s University | Ede, Osun State |
| 5 | Landmark University | Omu-Aran, Kwara State |
Let’s break them down.
In-Depth Profiles and Fee Structure
| Rank | University | Founded | Strengths | Estimated Fees (₦ per session) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Covenant University | 2002 | Africa’s top private university; strong in tech, innovation, and AI | ₦937,500 – ₦1,256,375 |
| 2 | Maryam Abacha American University | 2013 | Rapidly rising; high research output and international programs | ₦1,000,000 – ₦3,000,000 |
| 3 | Afe Babalola University (ABUAD) | 2009 | Renowned for medicine, law, engineering; world-class facilities | ₦1,370,000 – ₦4,670,000 |
| 4 | Redeemer’s University | 2005 | Genomics research, scholarships, biotech partnerships | ₦600,000 – ₦1,622,800 |
| 5 | Landmark University | 2011 | Agric-tech innovation, sustainability, 99% grad employability | ₦532,000 – ₦955,000 |
These universities are not just strong academically—they are also producing graduates who thrive globally.
Other Top-Ranking Institutions in 2025
Beyond the top five, here are some additional names worth knowing:
- Bowen University (Osun State): Top-tier in medicine and social sciences.
- Babcock University (Ogun State): Home to Nigeria’s first private teaching hospital.
- African University of Science and Technology (Abuja): Focused on STEM fields.
- Topfaith University (Benue State): Emerging for law, business, and tech.
- Pan-Atlantic University (Lagos): Best for business and communications; great industry connections.
How These Rankings Were Compiled
To ensure an objective ranking, we analyzed data from:
- AD Scientific Index 2025 – Focuses on scholarly output (H-index, citations, research productivity).
- Times Higher Education (THE) 2025 – Balances teaching, research, citations, international outlook, and industry partnerships.
- UniRank – Tracks digital presence and web impact.
- Boost Education Service and Pulse Nigeria – Add context, reputation, and fee breakdowns.
Each source uses different criteria, which is why some rankings may vary.
Covenant University: Nigeria’s Private Ivy League?
Ranked #1 in almost every list, Covenant University has solidified its place as Nigeria’s premier private university. It boasts partnerships with global tech firms, a rigorous curriculum, and a mission to raise “visionary leaders.”
Their graduates enjoy one of the highest employment rates in Nigeria, especially in tech and engineering sectors. It’s no surprise that Times Higher Education ranks it as the top university in the country—public or private.
Maryam Abacha American University: The Fastest Riser
While lesser known a few years ago, this Kano-based university is now one of the highest-ranked private universities in Nigeria. Known for its international collaborations, wide course offerings, and investment in research, it has quickly gained recognition both at home and abroad.
What About Employability?
According to Uni Education UK, Landmark University ranks high in graduate employment, with 99% of its alumni finding jobs within a year. Similarly, Afe Babalola University and Pan-Atlantic University boast high placement rates, especially in medicine and business sectors respectively.
This makes rankings like THE and UniRank more relevant if your priority is post-graduation employment.
Fees vs Value: What’s Worth It?
| University | Fee Range (₦) | Value Points |
|---|---|---|
| Covenant | ₦937k–₦1.25m | Top-ranked, strong alumni base |
| ABUAD | ₦1.3m–₦4.6m | Premium programs (medicine, law) |
| Landmark | ₦532k–₦955k | Affordable, excellent employment rate |
| Pan-Atlantic | ₦2.3m–₦4.3m | Elite business education, top recruiters |
Your choice should reflect your career goals, not just affordability. A medical degree from ABUAD may be expensive but opens doors globally. Meanwhile, Landmark’s agric programs are both affordable and practical for Nigeria’s economy.
Accreditation and Admission
Always check the university’s current status on the NUC website before applying. Also, ensure you meet entry requirements via the JAMB portal.
Final Advice for Prospective Students
Choosing from the top private universities in Nigeria in 2025 depends on your goals. Ask yourself:
- Do I want a strong research university (e.g., Covenant, Redeemer’s)?
- Do I want to study medicine, law, or engineering (e.g., ABUAD, Bowen)?
- Do I care most about job placement (e.g., Landmark, Pan-Atlantic)?
- What’s my budget and scholarship eligibility?
This decision isn’t just about today—it’s about your next 40 years.
Final Verdict
Covenant University remains the leader among private universities in Nigeria in 2025, combining excellence in research, employability, and innovation. But depending on what you’re studying and your goals, other schools like Afe Babalola University, Landmark University, and Pan-Atlantic University may be better suited for you.
Use this list as a guide—not a rulebook.
Ready to apply? Don’t just aim for prestige. Aim for the school that best fits your dream.
