The rising cost of tertiary education in Nigeria has made affordability a key consideration for many students and parents. While federal universities are often cheaper, state universities are catching up by offering quality education at reasonable costs. In this 2025 guide, we spotlight the top 10 most affordable state universities in Nigeria, helping you make informed decisions without breaking the bank.
1. Lagos State University (LASU)
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Location: Ojo, Lagos
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Estimated Tuition Fee (2025): ₦67,000 – ₦150,000
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Highlights:
LASU offers one of the most balanced combinations of affordability and academic excellence. With various faculties including Law, Engineering, and Management Sciences, LASU maintains a strong reputation in both academics and research.
2. Adekunle Ajasin University (AAUA)
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Location: Akungba-Akoko, Ondo State
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Estimated Tuition Fee: ₦60,000 – ₦80,000
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Highlights:
AAUA is one of the most affordable universities in Nigeria, especially for indigene students. The school provides quality education in a calm, academic-focused environment.
3. Nasarawa State University (NSUK)
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Location: Keffi, Nasarawa State
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Estimated Tuition Fee: ₦65,000 – ₦105,000
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Highlights:
NSUK has become known for its affordability and strong academic programs, especially in the arts, social sciences, and education.
4. Benue State University (BSU)
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Location: Makurdi, Benue State
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Estimated Tuition Fee: ₦80,000 – ₦100,000
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Highlights:
BSU continues to offer affordable education to a wide range of students across Nigeria. It has a strong emphasis on agricultural sciences and health sciences.
5. Taraba State University (TASU)
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Location: Jalingo, Taraba State
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Estimated Tuition Fee: ₦40,000 – ₦80,000
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Highlights:
TASU is not only affordable but also expanding rapidly in areas like environmental sciences, management, and law.
6. Kogi State University (KSU)
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Location: Anyigba, Kogi State
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Estimated Tuition Fee: ₦57,000 – ₦100,000
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Highlights:
KSU offers a range of degree programs with relatively low tuition. The university also invests in research and development.
7. Delta State University (DELSU)
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Location: Abraka, Delta State
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Estimated Tuition Fee: ₦64,500 – ₦90,000
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Highlights:
With multiple campuses, DELSU provides a quality academic experience with affordable fees for both indigenes and non-indigenes.
8. Gombe State University (GSU)
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Location: Gombe, Gombe State
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Estimated Tuition Fee: ₦50,000 – ₦70,000
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Highlights:
GSU is one of the cheapest in Northern Nigeria. It is rapidly gaining recognition for its academic programs in science and humanities.
9. Kaduna State University (KASU)
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Location: Kaduna
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Estimated Tuition Fee: ₦45,000 – ₦80,000
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Highlights:
KASU offers good academic opportunities in law, health sciences, and management while remaining one of the most affordable options in Northern Nigeria.
10. Ekiti State University (EKSU)
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Location: Ado-Ekiti, Ekiti State
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Estimated Tuition Fee: ₦65,000 – ₦120,000
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Highlights:
EKSU has remained consistent in maintaining a moderate fee structure. It also has a wide variety of courses and well-developed facilities.
What Makes These State Universities Affordable?
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Subsidized Tuition for Indigenes: Most states offer lower tuition for students from their state.
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Low Accommodation and Feeding Costs: Many of these institutions are located in areas with a low cost of living.
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Flexible Payment Structures: Some allow tuition to be paid in installments.
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Government Funding and Scholarships: State governments often support the institutions with additional funding and scholarship schemes.
FAQs on Affordable State Universities in Nigeria (2025)
Q1: Are state universities cheaper than federal universities?
A: Not always. While some state universities are affordable, federal universities often have slightly lower tuition. However, many state universities offer more flexible admission opportunities.
Q2: Do these universities offer scholarships?
A: Yes, most of them offer state government or merit-based scholarships.
Q3: Can non-indigenes pay the same fees as indigenes?
A: Non-indigenes usually pay a slightly higher fee but the difference is often reasonable.
Q4: Are these affordable universities accredited?
A: Yes, all universities listed here are accredited by the National Universities Commission (NUC).
Q5: Which university has the lowest tuition on the list?
A: Taraba State University (TASU) and Gombe State University (GSU) offer some of the lowest tuition fees.
Q6: Do these universities have accommodation?
A: Yes, most have hostel facilities, and off-campus housing is usually affordable.
Q7: Are the academic standards high in these universities?
A: Yes, despite the affordable fees, many of these universities have solid academic reputations and qualified lecturers.
Q8: Can I apply to these universities through JAMB?
A: Yes, all state universities require you to apply through JAMB.
Q9: Are there online courses available in these schools?
A: Some institutions are beginning to offer blended or part-time programs, especially in management and education.
Q10: What are the top courses offered in these universities?
A: Common high-quality programs include Education, Law, Mass Communication, Political Science, and Agriculture.
Conclusion
Choosing an affordable university doesn't mean compromising on quality. These top 10 state universities in Nigeria offer excellent academic opportunities, sound infrastructure, and value for money. Whether you are an indigene looking for subsidized tuition or a non-indigene seeking budget-friendly options, these schools provide reliable and credible platforms for your academic success in 2025.
