Nursing remains one of the most respected and in-demand professions in Nigeria and globally. With the healthcare system evolving and the demand for skilled professionals rising, choosing the right institution for nursing education is critical.
Accredited nursing schools in Nigeria not only offer solid academic foundations but also clinical exposure, industry relevance, and opportunities for further studies both locally and abroad. In this post, we’ll explore the top 10 accredited nursing schools in Nigeria in 2025, based on factors such as academic quality, clinical training, graduate employability, and regulatory approval by the Nursing and Midwifery Council of Nigeria (NMCN).
1. University of Ibadan – Department of Nursing
Location: Ibadan, Oyo State
Ownership: Federal Government
Accreditation: NMCN & NUC
Why It Stands Out:
UI is Nigeria’s premier university, and its Nursing Department is known for high academic standards and research-focused education. Students gain hands-on experience at the University College Hospital (UCH), one of the best in West Africa.
Specialties Offered:
- B.NSc in Nursing
- Postgraduate programs
- Opportunities for international exchange
Employability Score: 9.8/10
2. Obafemi Awolowo University – Department of Nursing Science
Location: Ile-Ife, Osun State
Ownership: Federal Government
Accreditation: NMCN & NUC
Why OAU Ranks High:
OAU offers a unique balance of theory and clinical practice with training at the Obafemi Awolowo University Teaching Hospital Complex (OAUTHC). It's also a leading institution in research and evidence-based nursing.
Key Features:
- Strong mentorship programs
- International collaborations
- Well-equipped simulation labs
Employability Score: 9.7/10
3. University of Nigeria, Nsukka – Nursing Sciences
Location: Nsukka, Enugu State
Ownership: Federal Government
Accreditation: NMCN & NUC
Why UNN is Preferred:
UNN has consistently produced well-rounded nurses equipped for global practice. It integrates public health, leadership, and community nursing into its training.
Program Highlights:
- 5-year B.NSc program
- Access to University of Nigeria Teaching Hospital (UNTH)
- High postgraduate success rate
Employability Score: 9.6/10
4. Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria – Nursing Sciences
Location: Zaria, Kaduna State
Ownership: Federal Government
Accreditation: NMCN & NUC
Why It’s Excellent:
ABU’s nursing program serves as a key training ground for Northern Nigeria. With access to the Ahmadu Bello University Teaching Hospital, students get top-quality clinical practice.
What Sets It Apart:
- Advanced skill labs
- Emphasis on community and psychiatric nursing
- High employment rate after graduation
Employability Score: 9.5/10
5. University of Lagos – Department of Nursing Science
Location: Lagos State
Ownership: Federal Government
Accreditation: NMCN & NUC
Why UNILAG is Popular:
Located in Nigeria’s commercial capital, UNILAG Nursing students gain access to some of the best medical facilities and internship opportunities in Lagos.
Key Strengths:
- Close ties with LUTH (Lagos University Teaching Hospital)
- Cutting-edge laboratories
- Tech-based learning systems
Employability Score: 9.4/10
6. Lagos State College of Nursing, Midwifery & Public Health
Location: Igando, Lagos State
Ownership: Lagos State Government
Accreditation: NMCN
Why It’s Ranked High:
Known for its rigorous curriculum and practical orientation, this college is one of the best-performing nursing schools at the diploma level in Nigeria.
Unique Benefits:
- Affordable fees
- Access to Lagos State health facilities
- Efficient academic calendar
Employability Score: 9.3/10
7. University of Benin – Nursing Science Department
Location: Benin City, Edo State
Ownership: Federal Government
Accreditation: NMCN & NUC
Why UNIBEN Excels:
UNIBEN offers both undergraduate and postgraduate nursing programs with excellent clinical affiliations and exposure to specialist units like pediatrics and obstetrics.
Key Features:
- Modern medical labs
- Flexible postgraduate options
- National and international recognition
Employability Score: 9.2/10
8. University of Calabar – Department of Nursing
Location: Cross River State
Ownership: Federal Government
Accreditation: NMCN & NUC
Why It’s in the Top 10:
UNICAL is known for its practical nursing training, community-based learning, and excellent student-to-tutor ratio. Students also benefit from the University of Calabar Teaching Hospital (UCTH).
Course Offerings:
- Bachelor of Nursing Science
- Internship and residency training
- Community immersion programs
Employability Score: 9.1/10
9. University of Port Harcourt – Department of Nursing
Location: Rivers State
Ownership: Federal Government
Accreditation: NMCN & NUC
Why It’s Recommended:
UniPort blends classroom instruction with extended clinical exposure at the University of Port Harcourt Teaching Hospital. It also has specialized training in mental health and surgical nursing.
Strengths:
- Excellent student facilities
- Research-based assignments
- Industry acceptance in South-South Nigeria
Employability Score: 9.0/10
10. Babcock University School of Nursing
Location: Ogun State
Ownership: Private
Accreditation: NMCN & NUC
Why It’s Outstanding:
One of the best private nursing schools in Nigeria, Babcock offers world-class education, small class sizes, and advanced simulation centers.
Perks of Babcock:
- Strong academic support
- Seamless transition to postgraduate programs
- Global affiliations with nursing councils abroad
Employability Score: 8.9/10
Factors Considered in Ranking
These schools were selected based on:
- NMCN Accreditation: Only fully accredited institutions were considered.
- Clinical Training Facilities: Availability of teaching hospitals and quality of hands-on experience.
- Academic Excellence: Curriculum strength, lecturer-to-student ratio, and learning infrastructure.
- Graduate Employability: Job placement rate, employer preference, and postgraduate performance.
- Student Support & Research: Availability of mentorship, seminars, workshops, and career guidance.
FAQs – Top Nursing Schools in Nigeria 2025
1. Which is the best university to study nursing in Nigeria in 2025?
The University of Ibadan is widely regarded as the best nursing school in Nigeria due to its academic strength, UCH partnership, and graduate outcomes.
2. What are the requirements to study nursing in Nigeria?
You must have at least five credits in WAEC/NECO/NABTEB including English, Mathematics, Biology, Chemistry, and Physics. You also need a high UTME score and must pass your institution's post-UTME screening.
3. Are private nursing schools in Nigeria good?
Yes. Some private institutions like Babcock University and Bowen University offer excellent nursing programs with modern facilities and international affiliations.
4. Can I get a job easily after studying nursing in Nigeria?
Yes. With the high demand for healthcare professionals, most graduates secure jobs quickly—especially if trained in top institutions with clinical exposure.
5. Can I work abroad with a Nigerian nursing degree?
Yes, but you must pass licensing exams (e.g., NCLEX, CBT) in the country where you intend to practice. Graduates from top Nigerian nursing schools often transition successfully.
Conclusion
Choosing the right nursing school is one of the most important decisions you’ll make in your healthcare career. The top institutions listed here offer not just academic excellence, but also hands-on clinical training and job-readiness.Whether you prefer a federal university, a state college, or a top private school, make sure it’s accredited by NMCN and has strong partnerships with hospitals.
In 2025, the future is bright for nursing in Nigeria—so take the leap, pick the right school, and get ready to serve and succeed.
