The field of dentistry in Nigeria has witnessed tremendous growth, with several institutions attaining global recognition for excellence in training, research, and clinical practice. If you're aspiring to become a dentist and want a degree that's respected both locally and internationally, choosing a school with international partnerships, accreditation, and reputable alumni is key.
In this blog post, we present the top 10 Nigerian dental schools with international recognition in 2025—institutions that meet global standards in academics, clinical exposure, and research.
Top 10 Internationally Recognized Dental Schools in Nigeria (2025)
1. University of Lagos College of Medicine (CMUL), Lagos
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Location: Idi-Araba, Lagos
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Highlights: Affiliated with Lagos University Teaching Hospital (LUTH), CMUL has robust partnerships with institutions in the UK, USA, and South Africa.
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Accreditation: MDCN, WACS
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Why It's Recognized: CMUL produces top-tier dentists with international postgraduate opportunities.
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Website: cmul.unilag.edu.ng
2. University of Ibadan, College of Medicine – Ibadan
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Location: Ibadan, Oyo State
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Highlights: One of Nigeria’s oldest and most reputable medical schools with global outreach programs.
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Affiliations: University of London, Harvard Global Health Institute
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Facilities: World-class dental surgery department and international research grants.
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Website: com.ui.edu.ng
3. Obafemi Awolowo University, Faculty of Dentistry – Ile-Ife
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Location: Ile-Ife, Osun State
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Highlights: Known for its comprehensive dental program and exchange partnerships with institutions in the UK and Germany.
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Specialties: Orthodontics, Periodontology, Oral Surgery
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Website: oauife.edu.ng
4. University of Nigeria, Nsukka – Faculty of Dentistry (UNN)
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Location: Enugu Campus (UNEC)
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Strengths: Strong alumni network, international student programs, and joint research projects with European universities.
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Recognition: Among Africa’s top medical schools.
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Website: unn.edu.ng
5. University of Benin, School of Dentistry – Benin City
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Location: Edo State
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Notable Feature: The UNIBEN dental school is well-funded with modern clinics and recognized internationally for oral health research.
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Global Partners: Collaborates with WHO and universities in Sweden and the US.
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Website: uniben.edu
6. Lagos State University College of Medicine (LASUCOM)
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Location: Ikeja, Lagos
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Unique Features: Offers a modern dental program with foreign-trained faculty and affiliations with South African dental councils.
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Recognition: Approved by MDCN and undergoing accreditation with regional bodies.
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Website: lasucom.edu.ng
7. Bayero University Kano, Faculty of Dentistry
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Location: Kano State
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Highlights: Has made major strides in dental research and student exchange with institutions in Egypt and India.
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Accreditation: MDCN, WACS
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Why It Stands Out: Excellent facilities in northern Nigeria with increasing global reach.
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Website: buk.edu.ng
8. University of Port Harcourt, Faculty of Dentistry
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Location: Rivers State
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Strengths: Specializes in oral and maxillofacial surgery, with links to African Dental Associations and research grants.
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Collaborations: Works with foreign dental health NGOs and research labs.
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Website: uniport.edu.ng
9. Ahmadu Bello University, Faculty of Dentistry – Zaria
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Location: Kaduna State
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Highlights: Highly rated in Northern Nigeria with a reputation for training dental professionals who pursue postgraduate studies abroad.
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Facilities: Advanced simulation labs and exchange programs.
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Website: abu.edu.ng
10. University of Maiduguri, Dental School – Borno State
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Location: Maiduguri
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Recognition: Despite regional challenges, UNIMAID’s dental school is recognized for its resilience and participation in international oral health campaigns.
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Unique Edge: Provides dentistry education to underserved areas with international aid.
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Website: unimaid.edu.ng
FAQs – Internationally Recognized Dental Schools in Nigeria
1. Are Nigerian dental schools accepted abroad?
Yes. Most top Nigerian dental schools are accredited by the Medical and Dental Council of Nigeria (MDCN) and West African College of Surgeons (WACS)—making their degrees accepted in countries across Africa, Europe, and parts of the US and Canada (with licensing exams).
2. What are the entry requirements for dental schools in Nigeria?
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Five O’Level credits in English, Mathematics, Chemistry, Physics, and Biology
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High JAMB score (usually 250+) in relevant science subjects
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Post-UTME performance
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Some universities also consider A-levels or pre-degree science programs.
3. How long does it take to study dentistry in Nigeria?
A typical Bachelor of Dental Surgery (BDS) program in Nigeria takes 6 years, including clinical practice.
4. Can Nigerian-trained dentists practice abroad?
Yes, many Nigerian dentists practice globally after completing qualifying exams like the UK PLAB, US NBDE, or Canadian NDEB.
5. Which Nigerian dental school is best for international opportunities?
University of Ibadan, University of Lagos, and Obafemi Awolowo University consistently lead in terms of international exposure, research, and exchange programs.
Conclusion
Nigeria is home to several dental schools that not only meet national standards but also shine on the global stage. Whether you're aiming to practice locally or pursue an international career, these top 10 institutions offer the environment, training, and opportunities needed for success in dentistry.
If you're looking for an internationally respected degree in dental surgery from Nigeria, this list provides the best starting point in 2025.
