Top 10 Cheapest Federal Universities in Nigeria 2023

If you’re looking for information regarding the cheapest federal universities in Nigeria for 2023/2024 session, then you have landed on the right page. Nigeria, a country renowned for its vibrant culture, diverse population, and rich heritage, also boasts a significant emphasis on education all the 36 states. With a growing number of students aspiring to pursue higher education, it is essential to consider affordable options that provide quality learning experiences. 

In this context, the focus turns towards federal universities, renowned for their academic excellence and governmental support. This article delves into the realm of affordability within the Nigerian higher education landscape, shedding light on the 10 cheapest federal universities. 

By exploring these institutions, prospective students can gain insight into the affordable avenues available to them without compromising on the quality of education.

As the cost of education continues to rise globally, it is crucial to identify cost-effective alternatives that provide an environment conducive to learning, research, and personal growth. Federal universities in Nigeria, established and funded by the federal government, play a pivotal role in ensuring accessible education for aspiring scholars across the country.

While affordability is a key factor, as we have also written about the top 20 cheapest private universities in Nigeria and their fees, it is essential to recognize that educational institutions should not be chosen solely based on cost. Quality of education, faculty expertise, research opportunities, and the overall learning environment should be equally prioritized. 

Therefore, in addition to presenting the affordability aspect, we will also touch upon the academic reputation and unique attributes of each university on our list.

Cheapest Federal Universities in Nigeria And Their School Fees

This segment discusses the 10 reputable Cheapest Federal Universities in Nigeria that you can enroll in:

1. University of Ibadan (UI)- ₦34,300 to ₦36,800

The University of Ibadan (UI) is the mention our list of the cheapest federal universities in Nigeria. It is a prestigious public research university located in Ibadan, Nigeria. Originally established in 1948 as University College Ibadan, it was initially affiliated with the University of London. However, in 1962, it gained independence and became the oldest degree-awarding institution in Nigeria. 

Over the years, the University of Ibadan has played a significant role in Nigeria’s political, industrial, economic, and cultural development through its extensive graduate network.

The university consists of 17 faculties encompassing a total of 92 academic departments. These faculties include Arts, Science, Basic Medical Sciences, Clinical Sciences, Agriculture, Social Sciences, Education, Veterinary Medicine, Pharmacy, Technology, Law, Public Health, Dentistry, Economics and Management Sciences, Renewable Natural Resources, Environmental Design and Management, and Multidisciplinary Studies.

Related: List of Universities in Lagos State

• What is the Cut-off Mark for 2023 in Unibadan?

The current UTME Cut off Mark for UI is 200.

• What is the Acceptance Fee for UI 2023?

The current acceptance fee for UI is Fifty Thousand Hundred naira (N50,000.00). 

• What Courses are Offered by the University of Ibadan? 

U.I offers many courses:

• Pharmacy
• Medicine
• Law
• Veterinary medicine
• Dentistry
• Chemistry
• Psychology
• Economics
• Agriculture
• Mathematics
• Biochemistry
• Physics
• Sociology
• History
• Civil Engineering
• Geography
• Social science
• Political science
• Religious studies
• Mechanical Engineering
• Physiology
• Classical Studies
• Biology
• Petroleum Engineering

2. Federal University of Technology, Akure, FUTA—₦18,900.00-₦52,100.00 

The Federal University of Technology Akure (FUT Akure or simply FUTA) is a university in Akure, Ondo State, Nigeria, owned by the federal government, and is one of the cheapest federal universities in Nigeria. Established in 1981, in one of the 774 local government areas in Nigeria, it was initiated by the Nigerian government with the aim of establishing specialized universities that focus on equipping graduates with practical and theoretical knowledge in various technologies.

FUT Akure is dedicated to providing education and training in technical fields, ensuring that its graduates possess a strong foundation in practical application alongside theoretical understanding. 

The university strives to produce skilled professionals who can contribute effectively to technological advancements and innovation in Nigeria.

Located in Akure, FUT Akure serves as a center for academic excellence, fostering a conducive environment for learning, research, and development in various technological disciplines. 

With a commitment to quality education, the university plays a vital role in shaping the future workforce of Nigeria and contributing to the growth and progress of the nation.

• What are the Engineering Courses in FUTA Akure?

FUTA offers a variety of engineering courses, which include Agricultural Engineering, Civil Engineering, Electrical & Electronics Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Metallurgical & Materials Engineering, and Mining Engineering.

• What is the Cut-off Mark for FUTA Akure?

For the 2023/2024 academic session, the minimum JAMB cut-off mark for FUTA Akure is 180. This means that students who wish to register for the Federal University of Technology Akure’s POST UTME must have obtained a score of at least 180 in the recently concluded JAMB examination.

• What Courses are Offered by The Federal University of Technology Akure, FUTA? 

FUTA offers more than 42 courses, some of which are:

• Biometric Technology
• Clinical Sciences
• Mechanical Engineering
• Civil Engineering
• Animal Production and Health
• Crop, Soil, and Pest Management
• Ecotourism and Wildlife Management
• Fisheries and Aquaculture
• Food Science and Technology
• Forestry and Wood Technology
• Anatomy
• Agricultural and Resource Economics
• Agricultural Extension and Communications Technology
• Electrical/Electronics Engineering
• Agricultural Engineering
• Metallurgical and Materials Engineering
• Mining Engineering, etc

3. University of Lagos, UNILAG—N15,500-N55,500

Founded in 1962, the University of Lagos (UNILAG), also known as UNILAG, is also one of the cheapest federal universities in Nigeria. It is a prestigious public research university situated in Lagos, one of the richest states in Nigeria.

It belongs to the category of first-generation universities in Nigeria and enjoys high rankings in renowned education publications worldwide. UNILAG operates across three campuses located on the mainland of Lagos, offering a diverse range of academic programs.

• What is the Cut-off Mark for UNILAG?

The cut-off mark for admission into the University of Lagos is a 200. 

• How Much is UNILAG Acceptance Fee 2023?

The University of Lagos (UNILAG) acceptance fee for the 2023/2024 academic session is estimated from N20,000 to N50,000. This fee is compulsory and non-refundable for every newly admitted 100L student.

• What Courses are Offered by The University of Lagos, UNILAG? 

• Chemical Engineering
• Civil and Environmental Engineering
• Electrical & Electronics Engineering
• Mechanical Engineering
• Surveying and Geoinformatics
• Materials and Metallurgical Engineering
• Systems Engineering
• Computer Engineering
• Petroleum and Gas Engineering
• Environmental Sciences
• Architecture
• Building
• Estate Management
• Quantity Surveying
• Urban and Regional Planning
• Accounting
• Actuarial Science
• Business Administration
• Finance
• Industrial Relations and Personnel Management
• Insurance
• Creative Arts
• English
• European Languages and Integrated Studies
• History
• Linguistics, African and Asian Studies
• Philosophy
• Religious Studies
• Medicine
• Dentistry
• Pharmacology
• Physiotherapy
• Physiology
• Radiography
• Nursing
• Medical Laboratory Sciences

Related: List of Universities in Ogun State

4. Federal University of Technology, Minna, FUTMINA—N28,200.00—N61,200

The Federal University of Technology, Minna, is renowned for its expertise in biotechnology and is considered the fourth-cheapest university in Nigeria. It offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs in various technological fields at affordable rates.

The university has played a leading role in the development of numerous vaccines, solidifying its reputation as a center of excellence in biotechnology within Nigeria. With a student population of over 25,000, FUTMINA provides opportunities for scholars to pursue their educational aspirations through its 48 undergraduate and 199 postgraduate programs.

Additionally, the university operates a pre-degree program designed to assist students in gaining admission to FUTMINA or other higher educational institutions in Nigeria.

• What is the Cut off Mark for Federal University of Technology, Minna?

FUTMINNA Jamb’s cut-off mark for the 2023/2024 academic session is 160. 

• How Much is The School Fees for Federal University of Technology, Minna?

The current school fees of the Federal University of Technology, Minna is N61,200 for the new and N28,200.00 for old students. 

• What Courses are Offered by The FUTMINNA

• Mechatronics engineering
• Building
• Architecture
• Food science and technology
• Aquaculture and fisheries technology
• Agricultural economics and extension technology
• Urban and regional planning
• Physics, Chemistry
• Geology
• Mathematics
• Electrical and electronics engineering
• Computer engineering
• Biochemistry
• Microbiology
• Animal biology, etc.

Related: Covenant University School Fees and Courses

5. Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria—N23, 000—N45,500

Ahmadu Bello University Zaria, opened in 1962 as the University of Northern Nigeria, and is one of the most affordable federal universities in Nigeria today. ABU is a federal government research university located in Zaria, Kaduna State, Nigeria. It was named in honor of Ahmadu Bello, the first premier of Northern Nigeria.

The university operates primarily from its main campus in Samaru, with additional satellite campuses in Kongo and a pre-degree school in Funtua, approximately 85 kilometers (53 miles) away. 

The main campus houses various administrative offices and faculties, including physical sciences, life sciences, social sciences, arts and languages, education, environmental design, engineering, medical sciences, agricultural sciences, as well as several research centers.

• How Much is ABU Zaria Acceptance fees 2023?

Abu Zaria acceptance fee for freshers is N30, 000. Paying for this admission confirms your acceptance of the offer extended to you by ABU. Failure to submit payment may result in the forfeiture of your admission. 

• What is the Cut off Mark for Ahmadu Bello University?

The Ahmadu Bello University, ABU JAMB Post UTME cut off mark is 180. 

• What Courses are Offered by The ABU Zaria? 

Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, offers a wide range of educational opportunities with more than 92 courses available across 17 faculties and 106 departments. Here are some examples of the courses offered at ABU:

• Chemical engineering
• Civil engineering
• Civil law
• Mass communication
• Political science and international studies
• Agricultural engineering
• Mathematics
• Geology
• Statistics
• Public law
• Chemistry
• Computer science
• Radiology
• Medicine
• Physics
• Nursing Science, etc

Related: List of Accredited Colleges of Education In Nigeria

6. University of Calabar (N45,340 – N61,340) 

The University of Calabar, located in Calabar, Cross River State, Nigeria, is a public university and part of Nigeria’s second generation federal universities. Previously, it was a campus of the University of Nigeria until 1975. 

Currently, the Vice Chancellor is Florence B. Obi. Angela Oyo Ita holds the position of DVC (Academic), and Grace Eno Nta serves as the current DVC (Administration).

Even though it is one of the cheapest federal universities in Nigeria, the University of Calabar has been at the forefront of technological advancements in Nigerian universities. It was one of the first universities to automate students’ registration processes through the College Portal. 

Moreover, the university has gone a step further by automating its alumni relations, including the provision of an online transcript request and processing system, which is the first of its kind in the country.

• What is the Ranking of University of Calabar in Nigeria?

The University of Calabar is ranked 13th in Nigeria, and 3282nd in the global 2023 rating. 

• What is the Cut-off for University of Calabar?

The current UTME Cut Off Mark for UNICAL is 180. 

• What Courses are Offered by The University of Calabar? 

The University of Calabar, UNICAL, offers various courses, namely:

• Law
• Mass communication
• Biochemistry
• Economics
• Accounting
• Agricultural economics and extension
• Applied Chemistry
• Banking and Finance
• Fisheries
• Estate Management
• Business Education
• Computer Science
• Food science and technology
• Geology, etc.

Also Read: List of Universities in Rivers State

7. Federal University of Technology, Owerri—N45,340-N61,340

The Federal University of Technology Owerri (FUTO) is a federal government university located in Owerri West, the capital of Imo State, Nigeria. 

It is situated in close proximity to the communities of Eziobodo, Ihiagwa, Obinze, Okolochi, and Emeabiam. FUTO holds the distinction of being the premier federal university of technology in the South-East and South-South regions of Nigeria.

Established in 1980 by executive fiat, FUTO is the oldest university of technology in Nigeria. The university was brought into existence through the appointment of the first provisional council by Nigeria’s first Executive President, Shehu Shagari. 

The Federal Government of Nigeria initiated the establishment of three universities of technology, including FUTO, with the aim of having one in each geo-political region. These universities were specifically intended for states that lacked conventional universities.

• What is The Cut-off Mark for Federal University of Technology, Owerri?

FUTO Departmental cut off mark is 150.

• How Much is the Federal University of Technology, Owerri Acceptance Fee?

FUTO acceptance fee for newly admitted students is N40,000. 

• What Courses are Offered by The Federal University of Technology, Owerri? 

• Forensic Science
• School of Engineering and Engineering Technology (SEET)
• Computer Engineering
• Electrical (Power System) Engineering
• Electronic Engineering
• Mechatronic Engineering
• Telecommunication Engineering
• School of Environmental Science (SOES)
• Microbiology
• Biochemistry
• Biotechnology
• Biology
• Agricultural and Bioresources Engineering
• Chemical Engineering
• Civil Engineering
• Electrical and Electronic Engineering.
• Food Science and Technology.
• Material and metallurgical engineering.
• Mechanical Engineering
• Mechatronic Engineering
• Petroleum Engineering
• Polymer and Textile Engineering
• School of Electrical System Engineering Technology (SESET)
• Architecture
• Building Technology
• Environmental Technology
• Quantity Surveying
• Surveying and Geoinformatics
• Urban and regional planning
• School of Health Technology (SOHT)
• Biomedical Technology
• Dental Technology
• Environmental Health Science
• Optometry
• Prosthetics and Orthotics
• Public Health Technology
• School of Information and Communication Technology (SICT)
• Computer Science
• Infection Technology
• Cyber Security
• Software Engineering
• School of Management Technology (SOT)
• Financial management Technology
• Maritime Management Technology (MMT)
• Project Management Technology
• Transport Management
• Management Technology
• School of Physical Science (SOP)
• Animal Science and Technology
• Crop science and technology
• Fisheries and Aquaculture Technology
• Forestry and Wildlife Technology
• Chemistry
• Geology
• Mathematics
• Physics
• Science Laboratory Technology
• Statistics
• Agricultural Economics
• Agricultural Extension
• Soil Science and Technology

8. Bayero University, Kano

Next on the list of the cheapest federal universities in Nigeria is Bayero University Kano (BUK), located in Kano, Kano State. Originally established as Bayero University College, it underwent a transformation in 1975 and was upgraded to a full-fledged university, thus becoming the first university in Kano State, which is situated in the North-western region of Nigeria. 

• What is the acceptance fee for Bayero University, Kano? 

The acceptance fee for freshers is N10,000. 

• What is the JAMB Score for Bayero University Kano?

The JAMB score for Bayero University, Kano is 180.

• What Courses are Offered by Bayero University, Kano? 

• Physical sciences
• Pharmaceutical sciences
• Agricultural economics and extension
• Agronomy
• Clinical Science
• Basic medical science
• Electrical Engineering
• Dentistry
• Life sciences
• Civil engineering
• Agricultural engineering
• Mechatronics engineering
• Economics
• Computer engineering
• Mechanical engineering
• Animal Science
• Soil science
• Political science
• Sociology, etc.

Related: List of Universities in Oyo State

9. Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU)—N151,500-N159,000

Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU) is a federal government-owned university located in the historic city of Ile-Ife, Osun State, Nigeria. Originally established in 1961 as the University of Ife by the regional government of Western Nigeria, it began its academic activities in October 1962 under the leadership of Samuel Ladoke Akintola. 

On 12 May 1987, the university was renamed “Obafemi Awolowo University” in tribute to Obafemi Awolowo (1909–1987), the first premier of the Western Region of Nigeria, who conceived the idea of establishing the university.

• What is the Acceptance Fee for OAU? 

The acceptance fee for Obafemi Awolowo University is N20,000. 

• What is the Cut-off Mark for OAU University?

The cut-off mark for OAU is 180.

• What Courses are Offered by the Obafemi Awolowo University? 

OAU offers quite a few number of courses:

• English Language
• Economics
• Dentistry
• Civil Engineering
• Biochemistry
• Agricultural Economics
• Accounting
• Architecture
• Botany
• Building
• Nursing Science
• Music
• Microbiology
• Medicine and Surgery
• Mechanical Engineering
• Law
• Industrial Chemistry
• Health Education
• Geology
• Business Administration
• Business Education, etc.

10. Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka (N20,000—N65,000)

Nnamdi Azikiwe University, also known as UNIZIK or NAU, is one of the cheapest federal universities in Nigeria. It encompasses two campuses situated in Anambra State. The main campus is located in Awka, the capital of Anambra State, while the second campus is in Nnewi. 

Additionally, Nnamdi Azikiwe University has other campuses in Agulu, within the Aniocha local government area, and Ifite-Ogwuari in the Ayamelum local government area of Anambra State. 

This strategic distribution enables Nnamdi Azikiwe University to operate in all three Senatorial Districts of Anambra State, with the Awka campus in Anambra Central Senatorial District, Nnewi in Anambra North Senatorial District, and Ifite-Ogwuari in Anambra South Senatorial District, respectively.

• How Much is UNIZIK Acceptance Fee and School Fees?

UNIZIK acceptance fee is 16,500.00. 

• What Courses are Offered by the University of Nnamdi Azikiwe?

The following are some of the interesting courses offered by UNIZIK:

• Theatre and Film Studies
• Mass communication
• Accounting
• Political science
• Crop Science
• Agricultural economics and extension
• Food science and technology
• Animal Science
• Soil science
• Marketing
• Fine and applied arts
• Computer science
• Library and Information Science
• Mathematics
• English Language and Literature
• History and International Studies
• Music
• Physics
• Biology, etc.

Also Read: List of Universities In Osun State

FAQs About the Cheapest Federal Universities In Nigeria

• Which Federal University is Easy to Gain Admission?

Federal University, Gusau, Zamfara State (FUGUS) Federal University Gusau is apparently the easiest Federal University to gain admission into because it is less competitive. 

• Which Federal University Has the Most Beautiful Campus in Nigeria?

Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU) is the Federal University in Nigeria with the most beautiful campus. 

• Which Federal University Has the Lowest School Fees?

The Federal University of Technology, Minna, FUTMINA has the lowest tuition fee which ranges from N28,200 for returning students, to  N61,200 for newly admitted students. 

Related: Top 10 Universities in Nigeria for Distance Learning

Cheapest Federal Universities in Nigeria (Summary) 

The pursuit of higher education in Nigeria does not have to come at an exorbitant cost. The country offers several affordable options for students seeking admission to federal universities. The top 10 cheapest federal universities in Nigeria provide quality education without breaking the bank. 

These institutions prioritize accessibility and affordability, ensuring that education remains within reach for aspiring students across the country. 

By offering affordable tuition fees and a range of financial aid options, these universities contribute to making education more accessible and inclusive for all Nigerian students.