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Private universities don’t have to cost a fortune; there are plenty of budget-friendly options.

When people hear private university, the first thought that often comes to mind is expensive. And yes, some can be. But not all private institutions come with a high price.

We spotlight 10 of the most affordable private universities in Nigeria that offer quality education, solid academic structures, and flexible payment options. Whether you’re a student or parent looking for value without compromising quality, this list will help you make an informed choice.

Why Consider Private Universities?

Private universities in Nigeria have gained traction for several reasons, and it’s not just about aesthetics or prestige. They offer:

• More stable academic calendars – less disruption from strikes

• Smaller class sizes – better engagement with lecturers

• Modern facilities – from labs to libraries

• Flexible learning options – including part-time and weekend programs

• Stronger industry ties – useful for internships and job placements

Top 10 Most Affordable Private Universities in Nigeria

1. Oduduwa University, Ipetumodu (OUI) – ₦98,000 – ₦245,000

The school is located in Osun State. OUI offers one of the lowest tuition fees among private institutions, and it ranges between ₦98,000 – ₦245,000. The school s students with scholarships and financial aid, especially those from underprivileged backgrounds, and their accommodation fee ranges from ₦30,000 – ₦140,000. The school offers courses like physics, mass communication, architecture, business , etc. This school is also one of the easiest universities to get into.

2. Al-Hikmah University, Ilorin – ₦161,000 – ₦3,500,000

This school was founded in 2005, and since then, this Islamic faith-based institution has grown steadily. It is great for those seeking a blend of faith, affordability, and structure. The wide tuition fees range from ₦161,000 – ₦3,500,000, but it depends on the course and whether you're a new or returning student. Accommodation fee ranges from ₦75,000 – ₦200,000. The school offers courses like law, Islamic studies, anatomy, economics, etc.

3. Ajayi Crowther University, Oyo – ₦200,000 – ₦2,000,000

The university offers diverse undergraduate programs and is known to be one of the best private universities in Nigeria. This university, with a tuition fee that ranges from ₦200,000 – ₦2,000,000, allows instalment payments, easing the financial burden. Accommodation fee ranges from ₦250,000 – ₦300,000, and flexible payment plans are available.

4. Adeleke University, Ede – ₦1,400,000 – ₦2,600,000

Adeleke University, situated in Ede, Osun state, is a Seventh-day Adventist faith-based institution that follows the philosophy of education of the Seventh-day Adventist Church. The university tuition fee ranges from ₦1,400,000 – ₦2,600,000, but the school provides financial aid in the form of loans and scholarships to students who may have difficulty affording the fees. In addition to its focus on innovative learning, the university also emphasises the development of entrepreneurial skills among its students.

5. Paul University, Awka – ₦342,000 (includes tuition & accommodation)

Paul University is one of the most affordable universities in Nigeria. The tuition fee is ₦342,000, and it includes accommodation. The school is d to the Anglican Church and is located in Awka, Anambra state. The university also offers loans and scholarships to underprivileged students. Note: Professional programs like Nursing and Physiotherapy cost more (up to ₦700,000).

6. Caritas University, Enugu – ₦131,000 – ₦390,000

Caritas University is a private university in Enugu, Nigeria. The tuition fees for undergraduate students is between ₦131,000 – ₦390,000, and they vary depending on the program of study, and this includes a pre-degree course. Courses such as sociology, mathematics and statistics, microbiology, psychology, industrial relations and personnel management, marketing, and industrial chemistry have a fee of ₦220,000.

7. Joseph Ayo Babalola University – ₦505,000 – ₦1,900,000

Joseph Ayo Babalola University is named after the first spiritual head of the Christ Apostolic Church, Joseph Ayo Babalola (1904–1959). The school is in Osun, Nigeria, and all students at the university reside on campus. The tuition fee, which is between ₦505,000 – ₦1,900,000, is dependent on the choice of study program. Law, Medicine, and Medical Laboratory Science are the most expensive courses.

8. Rhema University, Aba – ₦452,000 – ₦464,000

Rhema University is a private university located in Abia State, Nigeria. The university has programs that meet the educational needs of students. These programs are taught by Rhema University’s knowledgeable instructors who are experts in their fields. The current school fees of Rhema University, which is between ₦452,000 – ₦464,000, is dependent on the course of study. This university keeps fees relatively stable across departments and is known for dedicated faculty and small class sizes. The school focuses on health sciences, social sciences, and management.

9. South Western University, Lagos – ₦500,000 (includes accommodation)

Southwestern University is one of the cheapest private universities in Lagos, Nigeria. It offers a range of subjects such as banking, finance, international relations, and mass communication. This is one of the private universities in Lagos that allows its students to pay school fees in instalments. The students pay ₦500,000, and this includes accommodation. Student loans are also offered at Southwestern University.

10. Wellspring University, Benin City – ₦527,000 – ₦1,300,000

Wellspring University is located in Benin, Edo State, Nigeria. The university was founded by the Management Science Centre, a Professional Training and Educational Consulting Firm established in 1983. The tuition fee ranges from ₦527,000 – ₦1,300,000, and accommodation is between ₦215,000 – ₦225,000.

Can I Get a Scholarship at a Private University?

Yes! Many private universities in Nigeria offer financial , including:

• Merit-based scholarships – for top-performing students

• Need-based aid – for families with financial challenges

• Corporate sponsorships – from companies for students in relevant fields

Be sure to check each university’s website or issions directly for details.

Private universities don’t have to cost a fortune. As this list shows, there are plenty of budget-friendly options offering solid academics, modern facilities, and stable calendars.

Source: https://www.pulse.ng/articles/lifestyle/cheapest-private-university-in-nigeria-2025052012033061485

Perhaps to study useless courses like Edu , Biz Ad, Forestry, Botany ??

University of mkar , benue state is very cheap 90 to 500k

This is a big fat lie o. I attended Oduduwa University from January 2017-2021 and my school fees at the time was 295000 excluding hostel, library and others. That's 2017 oooo. And they increased while I was in 400l and I heard they've increased again.


Mind you. The 295k is per semester, so you're paying twice per year.... same as other attached fees too.

List federal University tuition fee?

True

Remove Oduduwa University.

..and where are the so called "Church " founded Universities

The Covenant, The Redeemed, The Mountain Top, The Anchor University

When we talk about Universities that should be affordable...one would think Church founded Universities should be leading...but then, the children of the less privileged, attending these churches, paying their offerings and tithes cannot afford to send their children to these universities..

it is what it is.

I thought Adeleke University was owned by the Davido's.

All of them are still on the high side let's compare and contrast to Federal university the difference is obvious

These are their fees on paper, but when you gain ission you will be told the real fees. Na semi-scammers

JuanDeDios:
I thought Adeleke University was owned by the Davido's.

No. It's actually own by Chioma, Davidos wife

This is mere ment. There are way more cheaper private universities (with full nuc approval) that are not even on this list.

In Nigeria, qualify education is not cheap. The definition of cheap is relative though. Those fees up there ain't cheap for those who can't afford it (which is the definition of an average Nigerian) but want qualify education that they deserve. On the flip side those are chicken change to those who can afford it. Big ups to all those out there who never had the chance to get quality education but are working to make sure their children do. May our efforts never be in vain (Amen)

Coal city university

AmazingGenius:


Source: https://www.pulse.ng/articles/lifestyle/cheapest-private-university-in-nigeria-2025052012033061485

Good one

MMM by Pulpit Bandits

Online tuition fee
.until U gain ission,then U will hear d original figure

Abeg cancel that Oduduwa Uni. No one attends the school again

joromii:
This is a big fat lie o. I attended Oduduwa University from January 2017-2021 and my school fees at the time was 295000 excluding hostel, library and others. That's 2017 oooo. And they increased while I was in 400l and I heard they've increased again.


Mind you. The 295k is per semester, so you're paying twice per year.... same as other attached fees too.

People still attend Oduduwa University?

Novena

ABUAD is affordable too

Please can more informed Nlanders tell what running an engineering master's at Covenant University (CU) looks like?

What are the pros and the cons?
Gratitude.

shankara7:
ABUAD is affordable too

no it’s not.no put people for problem.abuad is one of the most expensive pri unies in Nigeria.

Where is Bells University of Technology, Ogun state. ( Stella Obasanjo school).

OK

We have cheaper ones here in Benin republic

hmm

Abeg education is not cheap in naija ooo

Anchor used to be one of the cheapest, before the recent increase

Add Crescent University also

berryPee:
We have cheaper ones here in Benin republic

Lol

I don't Agree with this List as Fountain University Osogbo (FUO) was not included ..... It is one of the Cheapest Universities in Nigeria with Great Educational Standard.

AmazingGenius:


Source: https://www.pulse.ng/articles/lifestyle/cheapest-private-university-in-nigeria-2025052012033061485