Nigeria is home to many prestigious federal universities that provide quality education at affordable rates. These institutions are not only well-regarded for their academic excellence but also for their relatively low tuition fees compared to private universities. This article explores the List of Federal Universities in Nigeria and their school fees, offering insight into the affordability of public higher education in the country and key factors that affect the costs.
Why Are Federal Universities More Affordable In Nigeria?
Federal universities in Nigeria are generally more affordable than their private counterparts due to government subsidies. The federal government allocates funding to these institutions, enabling them to charge lower tuition fees. Additionally, the aim of these institutions is to provide education to a wider demographic, ensuring that students from different economic backgrounds have access to higher learning. This governmental support and the public nature of the institutions are key reasons why tuition fees at federal universities remain relatively low.
Some Factors That Influence Federal University Fees In Nigeria
Several factors influence the tuition fees charged by federal universities in Nigeria. These include:
- Government Funding: The level of government funding allocated to a university can directly impact its fees. Institutions with higher funding may charge lower fees as they rely more on government support.
- Location: Universities located in major cities or metropolitan areas may have slightly higher fees due to increased operational costs, including staff salaries, infrastructure maintenance, and cost of living.
- Course of Study: Fees may vary based on the program a student is enrolled in. Some specialized courses, particularly in fields such as medicine, engineering, and law, may incur additional fees for practical training, equipment, or specialized facilities.
- Student Population: Universities with a larger student population may be able to spread their operational costs over more students, leading to lower fees.
List of Cheapest Federal Universities in Nigeria and Their School Fees 2025
Here is a List of cheapest Federal Universities in Nigeria and their school fees for the 2025 academic year. The prices listed below are subject to change, so it’s essential to check with the respective universities for the most current rates.
University of Ibadan (UI)
School Fees: Approximately ₦50,000 to ₦80,000 per year
UI remains one of the most affordable federal universities, offering quality education in diverse fields.
University of Nigeria Nsukka (UNN)
School Fees: Around ₦45,000 to ₦75,000 annually
Known for its academic rigor, UNN offers affordable tuition fees while providing top-notch educational services.
Ahmadu Bello University (ABU) Zaria
School Fees: ₦50,000 to ₦85,000
ABU is one of Nigeria’s oldest federal universities, offering programs across multiple disciplines at very reasonable prices.
University of Lagos (UNILAG)
School Fees: ₦70,000 to ₦100,000
Located in Nigeria’s commercial capital, UNILAG is still considered relatively affordable compared to private universities.
Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU)
School Fees: Around ₦45,000 to ₦80,000
OAU is renowned for its cultural diversity and academic quality, with affordable fees for students across various faculties.
Federal University of Technology, Akure (FUTA)
School Fees: ₦60,000 to ₦85,000
List of Federal Universities in Nigeria and Their School Fees
| University | School Fees (₦) |
| University of Ibadan (UI) | 50,000 – 80,000 |
| University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN) | 45,000 – 75,000 |
| Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria (ABU) | 50,000 – 85,000 |
| University of Lagos (UNILAG) | 70,000 – 100,000 |
| Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU) | 45,000 – 80,000 |
| Federal University of Technology, Akure (FUTA) | 60,000 – 85,000 |
| University of Benin (UNIBEN) | 45,000 – 80,000 |
| University of Maiduguri (UNIMAID) | 50,000 – 80,000 |
| Federal University of Petroleum Resources, Effurun (FUPRE) | 55,000 – 85,000 |
| Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta (FUNAAB) | 50,000 – 75,000 |
| University of Jos (UJ) | 50,000 – 85,000 |
| University of Port Harcourt (UNIPORT) | 60,000 – 100,000 |
| University of Calabar (UNICAL) | 45,000 – 75,000 |
| Federal University of Lokoja (FULOKOJA) | 40,000 – 70,000 |
| Federal University, Dutsin-Ma (FUDMA) | 50,000 – 70,000 |
| Federal University of Kashere (FUKashere) | 45,000 – 70,000 |
| Federal University, Oye Ekiti (FUOYE) | 45,000 – 75,000 |
| Federal University of Lafia (FULafia) | 45,000 – 70,000 |
| Federal University of Wukari (FUWukari) | 50,000 – 75,000 |
| Federal University of Technology, Minna (FUTMINNA) | 50,000 – 80,000 |
| Federal University, Birnin Kebbi (FUBK) | 45,000 – 70,000 |
| Federal University, Ndufu-Alike Ikwo (FUNAI) | 50,000 – 75,000 |
| Federal University of Health Sciences, Azare (FUHSA) | 55,000 – 80,000 |
| Federal University of Agriculture, Makurdi (FUAM) | 50,000 – 75,000 |
| Federal University of Otuoke (FUO) | 50,000 – 70,000 |
| Federal University, Gashua (FUGashua) | 45,000 – 75,000 |
| Federal University of Abakaliki (FUAB) | 50,000 – 75,000 |
| Federal University of Shendam (FUSHENDAM) | 45,000 – 70,000 |
| Federal University of Technology, Akwa Ibom (FUTA) | 55,000 – 80,000 |
| National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN) | 40,000 – 70,000 |
| Federal University of Sokoto (FUSOKOTO) | 45,000 – 70,000 |
| University of Ilorin (UNILORIN) | 50,000 – 80,000 |
| University of Ado Ekiti (UNAD) | 45,000 – 75,000 |
| University of Calabar (UNICAL) | 50,000 – 75,000 |
| University of Uyo (UNIUYO) | 55,000 – 85,000 |
| Federal University of Yola (FUDY) | 50,000 – 70,000 |
| Federal University of Akwa Ibom (FUIK) | 45,000 – 70,000 |
Notes:
- Tuition Fees: The tuition fees are generally more affordable compared to private universities, ranging from ₦45,000 to ₦100,000 depending on the university.
- Course Specific Fees: Certain programs such as Medicine, Engineering, and Law may attract additional fees due to the specialized nature of the courses.
- Additional Costs: The school fees do not include extra charges like hostel accommodation, lab fees, examination fees, and other administrative charges, which students should budget for separately.
For the most accurate and up-to-date information, it’s always best to check directly with the universities.
Other Fees Payable at Nigerian Federal Universities
While school fees are the primary expenses, students at federal universities in Nigeria must also budget for additional fees. These include:
- Acceptance Fees: Upon admission, students are usually required to pay an acceptance fee, which can range from ₦10,000 to ₦20,000.
- Hostel Fees: Most universities offer on-campus accommodation, with fees typically ranging from ₦20,000 to ₦50,000 per year, depending on the type of room (single or shared).
- Library and Laboratory Fees: Specialized programs, particularly in the sciences, often have additional fees for laboratory equipment and library resources.
- Examination Fees: In some cases, universities may charge fees for exam registrations and other related services.
- Medical and Health Fees: Many federal universities provide healthcare services for students, which are often included in the annual fees.
How to Choose an Affordable Federal University in 2025
Choosing an affordable federal university involves more than just looking at the tuition fees. Consider the following factors when making your decision:
- Financial Aid: Some universities offer scholarships, grants, and other financial aids. Check if the university offers any support that can reduce the overall cost.
- Accommodation Options: If you’re living on campus, consider the cost and quality of the available hostels.
- Course and Program Flexibility: Ensure the university offers your desired course of study and provides options for part-time or flexible learning, if necessary.
- Reputation and Ranking: While affordability is essential, consider the university’s academic reputation. An affordable education should not come at the expense of quality.
- Additional Costs: Factor in other costs like transportation, books, and personal expenses.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Which is the cheapest federal university in Nigeria in 2025?
The cheapest federal universities in Nigeria include the University of Nigeria Nsukka (UNN) and the University of Ibadan (UI), with fees ranging from ₦45,000 to ₦85,000 per year.
Do federal universities increase their school fees every year?
School fees at federal universities may increase from year to year, but the government tries to keep the costs affordable for students. It’s best to check with the university for updates on fee adjustments.
Are acceptance and hostel fees included in school fees?
No, acceptance and hostel fees are usually separate from the main tuition fees. These additional costs need to be paid separately by the students.
Is studying in a cheap university the same as getting lower quality education?
Not necessarily. Many affordable federal universities in Nigeria offer high-quality education, as they are government-funded and have experienced faculty members and good infrastructure.
How can students manage costs aside from school fees?
Students can manage costs by applying for scholarships, living off-campus in cheaper accommodations, budgeting wisely, and seeking part-time jobs or internships that provide additional income.
The List of Federal Universities in Nigeria and their school fees reveals a variety of affordable options for students in 2025. These institutions offer a range of courses and degrees at relatively low tuition rates, ensuring that education remains accessible to a wide demographic of students. When choosing a federal university, it’s crucial to consider not only tuition fees but also accommodation costs, financial aid, and the university’s academic reputation.
