In this article, we’ve carefully compiled the 10 best nursing schools in Nigeria in 2025 based on reputation, accreditation, facilities, affordability, and quality of clinical training. If you’re planning to study nursing in Nigeria, this guide will help you make the right choice. Nursing is one of the most respected and in-demand professions in Nigeria today. With the growing need for qualified healthcare professionals, more students are looking for the best nursing schools where they can gain quality training and internationally recognized certification. But here’s the challenge: not every school that claims to train nurses is properly accredited.
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To avoid wasting time and money, it is important to choose only schools that are approved by the Nursing and Midwifery Council of Nigeria (NMCN) or accredited universities offering Bachelor of Nursing Science (BNSc.) degrees.
Why Accreditation Matters
First, let’s break down what accreditation really means. Accreditation is the official recognition given to a nursing school once it meets the standards set by the Nursing and Midwifery Council of Nigeria (NMCN). This approval ensures that the school provides quality education and proper training for future nurses.
Accreditation is not just important, it is litteraly everything in nursing education. The NMCN is the sole regulatory body for nursing and midwifery training in Nigeria. Any school not approved by them is considered illegal, and graduates from such schools will not be allowed to sit for the nursing licensing exam.
That is why, before choosing a nursing school, you must confirm that it is listed on the NMCN approved list or that it is a recognized Nigerian university offering a BNSc. degree. This step is crucial for protecting your future career as a professional nurse.
The 10 Best Nursing Schools in Nigeria in 2025
Here are the top nursing schools that stand out in terms of training quality, reputation, and career opportunities:
University College Hospital (UCH) School of Nursing, Ibadan
The UCH School of Nursing, located in Ibadan, Oyo State, holds the top spot as one of the oldest and most prestigious nursing institutions in Nigeria. Established in 1952, it has built a solid reputation for excellence in nursing education. The school offers a wide range of programs, including Basic Nursing, Midwifery, and Post-Basic Nursing.
One of its greatest strengths is the access it provides to hands-on clinical training at the University College Hospital (UCH), one of the largest and most advanced teaching hospitals in West Africa. This exposure gives students invaluable practical experience in diverse medical settings.
Despite its prestige and quality of training, UCH School of Nursing remains relatively affordable, with annual tuition fees ranging from ₦150,000 to ₦200,000 significantly lower than many private nursing schools in the country.
Lagos University Teaching Hospital (LUTH) School of Nursing, Lagos
The LUTH School of Nursing, located in Idi-Araba, Lagos, is widely recognized for its high-quality training. It offers programs in Registered Nursing (RN) and Post-Basic Nursing, preparing students with the skills and knowledge required for professional practice.
What sets LUTH apart is its direct connection to the Lagos University Teaching Hospital, the largest teaching hospital in Lagos. This gives students the unique advantage of world-class training and exposure to a wide variety of medical cases within a busy metropolitan environment. Annual fees range between ₦150,000 and ₦180,000, making it a solid choice for students seeking quality education at a reasonable cost.
ABUTH School of Nursing, Zaria
Located in Zaria, Kaduna State, the Ahmadu Bello University Teaching Hospital School of Nursing is one of the most respected nursing institutions in northern Nigeria. It offers programs in Basic Nursing and Post-Basic Nursing, providing students with solid academic grounding and practical training. The school is particularly known for its affordability and high-quality education, making it a top choice for many aspiring nurses. Graduates of ABUTH are widely recognized for their excellence and often perform well both locally and internationally. Annual fees are relatively low, ranging from ₦120,000 to ₦150,000.
OAUTHC School of Nursing, Ile-Ife
The Obafemi Awolowo University Teaching Hospitals Complex (OAUTHC) School of Nursing, located in Ile-Ife, Osun State, is well regarded for its structured programs and conducive learning environment. It offers training in Basic Nursing, Midwifery, and Post-Basic Nursing, ensuring students receive comprehensive education across multiple areas of nursing practice. One of its strengths is the excellent clinical exposure provided through rotations within the teaching hospital, which prepares students for real-world healthcare challenges. Annual fees range between ₦100,000 and ₦150,000, making it both high-quality and affordable.
UNTH School of Nursing, Enugu
The University of Nigeria Teaching Hospital (UNTH) School of Nursing, located in Enugu, Enugu State, is one of the leading institutions for nursing education in southeastern Nigeria. It offers programs in Basic Nursing, Post-Basic Nursing, and Midwifery, providing students with a wide range of career pathways. Known for its competitive admission and strong academic standards, UNTH stands out because of its excellent teaching quality and the hospital’s strong reputation. Graduates from UNTH are highly sought after and often perform exceptionally well in the job market. Annual fees are between ₦120,000 and ₦180,000, making it a reasonably priced option for quality training.
UITH School of Nursing, Ilorin
The University of Ilorin Teaching Hospital (UITH) School of Nursing, located in Ilorin, Kwara State, is a respected institution that provides quality nursing education in a serene and conducive learning environment. It offers programs in Basic Nursing and Post-Basic Nursing, equipping students with both theoretical knowledge and practical skills. What makes UITH stand out is its balance of affordability and peaceful study setting, making it a great option for students who prefer to study away from the busy atmosphere of Lagos or Abuja. Annual fees range from ₦120,000 to ₦170,000, which is considered affordable compared to many other institutions.
FCT College of Nursing, Abuja
The FCT College of Nursing, located in Gwagwalada, Abuja, is one of the most sought-after nursing schools in Nigeria. The college is owned and managed by the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) and offers accredited programs in General Nursing and Midwifery. Known for its high academic standards, modern facilities, and strong clinical training partnerships with top hospitals in the FCT, the school consistently produces well-trained and competent nurses. Admission into the college is highly competitive, attracting applicants from across the country, while tuition remains relatively affordable compared to many private institutions.
Akwa Ibom State College of Nursing Science
The Akwa Ibom State College of Nursing Science is a government-owned institution with campuses spread across Uyo, Ikot Ekpene, Eket, Ituk Mbang, and Oron. Recognized as one of the top nursing schools in Nigeria, the college provides accredited programs in General Nursing, Basic Midwifery, and Post-Basic Nursing, giving students both strong academic grounding and extensive clinical exposure. With well-equipped classrooms, skilled faculty, and affiliations with reputable healthcare facilities, AKSCONS has built a strong reputation for producing competent and compassionate nurses. Tuition is considered affordable, making it an accessible option for candidates across Nigeria who are eager to pursue a career in nursing and midwifery.
Holy Rosary School of Nursing, Emekuku
The Holy Rosary School of Nursing, situated in Emekuku, Imo State, is a reputable institution dedicated to producing highly skilled and compassionate nurses. The school runs accredited programs in Basic Nursing and Midwifery, combining professional training with strong moral and ethical values. With well-equipped facilities, experienced tutors, and a history of excellence in nursing education, it has become a preferred choice for students in southeastern Nigeria. Tuition is considered moderate compared to other institutions, making it a practical option for aspiring nurses seeking both quality education and affordability.
University Nursing Programs (BNSc. Degree)
In addition to traditional schools of nursing, several top universities in Nigeria offer Bachelor of Nursing Science (BNSc.) degrees. These degree programs typically last between four and five years and open up wider career opportunities, both within Nigeria and internationally. They also provide a solid foundation for postgraduate studies in nursing and related healthcare fields.
The University of Ibadan (UI) offers a BNSc. program in Nursing, while the University of Lagos (UNILAG) provides a BNSc. in Nursing Science with a strong focus on academic and clinical excellence. Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU) is widely recognized for its robust nursing curriculum and well-structured program, while the University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN), stands out as a leader in nursing education in southeastern Nigeria.
These universities combine academic depth with practical training, giving students the advantage of both professional recognition and broader educational opportunities.
Quick Snapshot of the Best Nursing Schools in Nigeria
If you’re still trying to decide, here’s a summary:
- Most Affordable Option: ABUTH Zaria
- Most Prestigious Nursing School: UCH Ibadan
- Best in Lagos: LUTH School of Nursing
- Best in the Southeast: UNTH Enugu
- Best Faith-Based Nursing School: Holy Rosary
- Best University Nursing Programs: UI, UNILAG, OAU, UNN
How to Choose the Right Nursing School
Picking the right school depends on your personal goals and circumstances. Here are some tips:
- Check Accreditation: Always confirm NMCN approval.
- Consider Your Budget: Public schools are generally more affordable.
- Location Matters: Choose a school in a safe, accessible environment.
- Look at Career Goals: If you plan to work abroad, a BNSc. degree might be better.
- Ask About Clinical Exposure: Hospitals with diverse cases provide better training.
Choosing the right nursing school is one of the most important decisions you’ll make in your career. The 10 best nursing schools in Nigeria in 2025 listed above have proven their excellence through accreditation, affordability, facilities, and successful graduates.
Whether you want the prestige of UCH Ibadan, the international recognition of UNILAG, or the affordability of ABUTH Zaria, there’s a perfect fit for you.
Pro Tip: Always verify admission updates directly from each school’s official portal and avoid scammers who promise “easy admission.”
If you’re serious about starting your nursing career in 2025, bookmark this guide and subscribe to our blog for the latest admission news, cut-off marks, and entry requirements.
Fequently Asked Question
Q1. What is the best nursing school in Nigeria in 2025?
- The University College Hospital (UCH) School of Nursing in Ibadan is widely regarded as one of the best, alongside LUTH Lagos and ABUTH Zaria.
Q2. Which nursing school in Nigeria is the cheapest?
- ABUTH School of Nursing in Zaria is one of the most affordable, with annual fees ranging between ₦120,000 – ₦150,000.
Q3. How many years does it take to study nursing in Nigeria?
- It takes 3 years for a basic nursing diploma program and 4–5 years for a BNSc. degree in a university.
Q4. Can I study nursing in Nigeria without JAMB?
- Yes. Most schools of nursing accept applicants without JAMB. However, for university BNSc. programs, JAMB UTME is compulsory.
Q5. What is the difference between a School of Nursing and a University Nursing Program?
- A School of Nursing awards a diploma (RN, RM), while universities award a Bachelor of Nursing Science (BNSc.), which has more international recognition.
