Best State Universities for Nursing in Nigeria (2025 Guide)

Nursing in Nigeria is not just a profession—it’s a calling. With the rising demand for healthcare professionals across the country, nursing stands out as one of the most rewarding and secure career paths. But to succeed, the foundation matters. That’s why choosing from the best state universities for nursing in Nigeria is crucial for your future success.

This guide provides a deep dive into top-rated state universities offering accredited B.Sc. Nursing programs. You’ll discover admission requirements, course structure, tuition fees, and what makes each school unique.

Whether you’re a fresh secondary school graduate or a mature applicant aiming for a second degree, this article helps you choose wisely.

What Makes a Good Nursing School in Nigeria?

Not all nursing schools are equal. The best state universities for nursing in Nigeria typically share these characteristics:

• Nursing and Midwifery Council of Nigeria (NMCN) accreditation
• Experienced faculty and clinical instructors
• Functional teaching hospitals for clinical experience
• Modern laboratories and simulation centers
• Strong academic track records and graduate employability

If a school lacks these features, your nursing degree might face limitations.

Full List: Best State Universities for Nursing in Nigeria

Below are top-performing state universities offering fully accredited BSc Nursing programs:

University Name	Location	NMCN Accreditation	Teaching Hospital
Lagos State University (LASU)	Lagos	✅	LASUTH
Abia State University	Uturu, Abia	✅	ABSUTH
Imo State University	Owerri, Imo	✅	IMSUTH
Ebonyi State University	Abakaliki, Ebonyi	✅	AE-FUTHA
Delta State University	Abraka, Delta	✅	DELSUTH
Benue State University	Makurdi, Benue	✅	BSUTH
Rivers State University	Port Harcourt, Rivers	✅	UPTH
Ekiti State University	Ado-Ekiti, Ekiti	✅	EKSUTH
Osun State University	Osogbo, Osun	✅	UNIOSUN Teaching Hospital
Enugu State University of Science and Tech	Enugu	✅	ESUT Teaching Hospital

These universities meet both academic and clinical standards required for professional nursing in Nigeria.

State-by-State Analysis of Top Nursing Schools

Lagos State University (LASU)

• Strengths: Urban exposure, top-tier teaching hospital, international partnerships
• Special Note: LASU Nursing consistently produces high-performing nurses across West Africa.

Abia State University (ABSU)

• Location: Uturu
• Highlights: Highly-rated practical sessions and internship rotations at ABSUTH
• Reputation: Known for graduating highly skilled community nurses.

Imo State University (IMSU)

• City: Owerri
• Unique Edge: Practical-heavy training and innovative curriculum updates.

Ebonyi State University (EBSU)

• Hospital: Alex Ekwueme Federal University Teaching Hospital
• Notable Strength: Strong mentorship programs and regional demand for graduates.

Delta State University (DELSU)

• Focus Area: Combines research and community outreach
• Why Choose It: Good blend of academics and field exposure.

Entry Requirements for Nursing in State Universities

To gain admission into BSc Nursing programs, you’ll need:

• Minimum of 5 credits in WAEC/NECO/NABTEB (including English, Mathematics, Biology, Chemistry, Physics)
• JAMB UTME score of 200+ with Nursing as first choice
• Relevant subject combination in UTME (English, Biology, Chemistry, Physics)
• Post-UTME screening (varies by institution)
• Age limit (typically 16 years and above)

Some universities require you to pass an oral interview or medical test before admission.

 Course Structure and Duration for BSc Nursing

Most state universities follow the five-year structure:

Year 1: Basic Sciences & Intro to Nursing

• Anatomy
• Physiology
• Psychology
• Introduction to Nursing

Year 2–3: Core Nursing Courses

• Medical-Surgical Nursing
• Maternal & Child Health
• Public Health Nursing

Year 4–5: Clinical Rotations & Research

• Intensive practicals in teaching hospitals
• Research project and seminars
• Final qualifying exam (set by NMCN)

Upon graduation, students undergo a one-year internship and then participate in NYSC.

Cost of Studying Nursing in State Universities

Here’s an estimate of the tuition range for nursing programs across major state universities:

University	Tuition (per session)	Notes
LASU	₦150,000 – ₦250,000	Urban costs are higher
ABSU	₦120,000 – ₦180,000	Affordable
EBSU	₦130,000 – ₦160,000	Moderate
IMSU	₦140,000 – ₦200,000	May include practical fees
DELSU	₦100,000 – ₦150,000	Subsidized by Delta govt.

Additional costs: textbooks, lab fees, clinical kits, transportation to hospitals.

Nursing Career Opportunities in Nigeria

After graduation, nursing professionals can work in:

• Public and private hospitals
• Teaching and specialist hospitals
• NGOs and international health organizations
• Academia and research institutions
• Military and paramilitary health sectors

Nurses in Nigeria are also highly sought after for overseas opportunities in Canada, UK, and Australia.

How to Apply for a Nursing Program in Nigeria

Steps to Follow:

1. Sit for UTME and choose your preferred state university.
2. Meet cut-off marks and O’Level requirements.
3. Apply for the university’s Post-UTME or screening.
4. Upload your documents to the JAMB CAPS portal.
5. Monitor admission status and accept offer on JAMB portal.

Tip: Visit each university’s admission portal for specific deadlines and instructions.

Tips for Excelling as a Nursing Student in Nigeria

• Attend all lectures and clinical sessions.
• Form study groups.
• Use NMCN past questions for revision.
• Volunteer in hospitals for extra exposure.
• Maintain a strong CGPA for job and postgraduate advantage.

Nursing school is demanding but rewarding. Prepare mentally and emotionally.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Which state university is best for nursing in Nigeria?

Lagos State University, Abia State University, and Ebonyi State University are top choices based on reputation and facilities.

How many years does it take to study nursing in Nigeria?

It typically takes 5 years to complete a B.Sc. Nursing program, followed by a 1-year internship.

Can I apply for nursing with NECO results?

Yes, as long as you have the required 5 credits in a single sitting.

Is nursing in Nigeria lucrative?

Yes, especially with increasing demand in both local and foreign health sectors.

Do state universities accept second-choice candidates for nursing?

Most don’t. Always select your preferred school as first choice in JAMB.

Final Thoughts on Pursuing Nursing in Nigeria

Choosing from the best state universities for nursing in Nigeria gives you a strong start in a life-saving profession. From Lagos to Ebonyi, several schools offer world-class education and clinical experience. With proper preparation and the right choice, your nursing journey will be successful and fulfilling.

If you’re serious about nursing in Nigeria, start preparing now—research schools, gather documents, and meet cut-off marks.

What’s Next?

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