Business education in Nigeria has evolved rapidly, with several institutions now offering globally competitive MBA and Executive MBA programs. Whether you're an aspiring entrepreneur or a working professional seeking advanced knowledge, enrolling in an approved business school could be your pathway to career success.
In this article, we present the Top 10 Approved Business Schools in Nigeria for 2025, including details on tuition fees, admission requirements, and key features.
1. Lagos Business School (LBS), Pan-Atlantic University – Lagos
- Location: Lekki, Lagos
- Popular Programs: Full-Time MBA, Executive MBA, Modular Executive MBA
- Tuition Fees:
- Full-Time MBA: ₦6.5 million – ₦8 million
- Executive MBA: ₦7 million – ₦9 million
- Admission Requirements:
- Bachelor’s degree (minimum Second Class Lower)
- Minimum 3 years work experience
- GMAT or LBS entrance test
- NYSC Certificate
- Two references and interview
- Strengths: International accreditation (AACSB, AMBA), global ranking, executive training.
2. University of Lagos Business School (ULBS)
- Location: Akoka, Lagos
- Programs: Executive MBA, PGD, M.Sc. in Business Admin
- Tuition Fees:
- Executive MBA: ₦1.8 million – ₦2.5 million
- Admission Requirements:
- Bachelor's degree with a minimum of 3.0 CGPA
- NYSC discharge certificate
- Minimum of 3 years of professional experience
- Strengths: Flexible weekend programs and strong Lagos-based corporate connections.
3. Ahmadu Bello University Business School (ABUBS)
- Location: Zaria, Kaduna State
- Programs: MBA, Executive MBA, M.Sc. in Business
- Tuition Fees:
- MBA: ₦350,000 – ₦450,000 (per session)
- Admission Requirements:
- Bachelor's degree
- NYSC
- Minimum of 2 years relevant experience
- Strengths: Budget-friendly, widely respected in Northern Nigeria.
4. Obafemi Awolowo University Business School (OAU-BS)
- Location: Ile-Ife, Osun State
- Programs: MBA, Executive MBA, M.Sc.
- Tuition Fees:
- Executive MBA: ₦500,000 – ₦600,000 per session
- Admission Requirements:
- B.Sc./B.A. in any discipline
- At least 3 years of work experience
- NYSC certificate
- Strengths: Academic excellence and extensive alumni network.
5. University of Ibadan School of Business (UISB)
- Location: Ibadan, Oyo State
- Programs: MBA, Executive MBA, PGD
- Tuition Fees:
- MBA: ₦300,000 – ₦500,000
- Admission Requirements:
- Bachelor's degree
- NYSC certificate
- Minimum 2 years working experience
- Strengths: Nigeria’s premier university with solid academic credibility.
6. University of Nigeria Nsukka (UNN) Business School
- Location: Enugu State
- Programs: MBA (various specializations), Executive MBA
- Tuition Fees:
- MBA: ₦400,000 – ₦550,000
- Admission Requirements:
- Bachelor’s degree
- Minimum of 3 years professional experience
- NYSC certificate
- Strengths: Specializes in areas like finance, marketing, and strategic management.
7. University of Port Harcourt Business School (UPBS)
- Location: Port Harcourt, Rivers State
- Programs: Executive MBA, Modular MBA
- Tuition Fees:
- ₦1.5 million – ₦2 million
- Admission Requirements:
- First degree
- NYSC certificate
- 3–5 years work experience
- Strengths: Best suited for professionals in the oil & gas and energy sectors.
8. Bayero University Kano Business School (BUKBS)
- Location: Kano State
- Programs: MBA, Executive MBA, PGD
- Tuition Fees:
- MBA: ₦200,000 – ₦350,000 per session
- Admission Requirements:
- Bachelor’s degree
- NYSC certificate
- 2+ years of working experience
- Strengths: Affordable programs and Islamic finance specialization.
9. Covenant University Business School – Ota
- Location: Ota, Ogun State
- Programs: MBA, M.Sc., Executive programs
- Tuition Fees:
- MBA: ₦1.5 million – ₦2.2 million
- Admission Requirements:
- Bachelor's degree (minimum Second Class Lower)
- NYSC
- Work experience preferred
- Strengths: Private university with high-tech facilities and global perspective.
10. Delta State University Business School (DELSU-BS)
- Location: Abraka, Delta State
- Programs: MBA, PGD, Executive MBA
- Tuition Fees:
- MBA: ₦250,000 – ₦400,000
- Admission Requirements:
- Bachelor’s degree
- NYSC certificate
- At least 2 years of post-graduation experience
- Strengths: Ideal for professionals in the South-South region of Nigeria.
Key Benefits of Attending an Approved Business School in Nigeria
- Career Advancement: Gain leadership and managerial skills needed for promotions.
- Networking: Connect with industry leaders and fellow professionals.
- Global Exposure: Some schools offer international exchange or dual-degree programs.
- Entrepreneurship: Gain practical insights to start and scale your business.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Which is the best business school in Nigeria for 2025?
Lagos Business School (LBS) is widely regarded as the best due to its global rankings, faculty, and corporate partnerships.
2. Are all these schools accredited by NUC?
Yes. All listed institutions are approved by the National Universities Commission (NUC) and some hold international accreditations like AACSB and AMBA.
3. Do I need GMAT to apply?
Only a few schools like LBS require GMAT or their in-house entrance exams. Most federal and state universities require only academic transcripts and work experience.
4. Can I work while pursuing my MBA?
Yes. Many of these schools offer Executive MBA or Modular programs designed for working professionals.
5. What is the duration of MBA programs in Nigeria?
The average duration is 18 to 24 months for full-time programs and 24 to 36 months for part-time or executive MBAs.
Final Words
Choosing the right business school can be a life-changing decision. Whether you're looking for affordability, prestige, or flexibility, this list of Top 10 Approved Business Schools in Nigeria for 2025 provides a balanced overview.
From Lagos to Kano, these institutions are equipping future business leaders with the tools they need to thrive in today’s competitive economy.
