Top 20 Cheapest Private Universities in Nigeria (2026/2027)

Private universities in Nigeria are often considered expensive, but several institutions offer relatively affordable tuition fees compared to many popular private schools. Some of the cheapest private universities charge between ₦170,000 and ₦450,000 per academic session, depending on the course and level.

If you want to attend a private university with smaller class sizes, stable academic calendars, and fewer strikes, this guide lists the top 20 cheapest private universities in Nigeria and their estimated school fees.

1. Oduduwa University

Location: Ipetumodu, Osun State
Estimated school fees: ₦98,000 – ₦245,000 per session

Oduduwa University is widely considered one of the most affordable private universities in Nigeria. It offers programs in engineering, management sciences, and social sciences.

2. Obong University

Location: Akwa Ibom State
Estimated school fees: ₦170,000 – ₦230,000

Obong University is known for its low tuition fees and peaceful learning environment, making it a good option for students on a tight budget.

3. Ajayi Crowther University

Location: Oyo State
Estimated school fees: ₦162,000 – ₦350,000

Owned by the Anglican Church, Ajayi Crowther University offers courses in law, accounting, mass communication, and many others. It allows installment payment plans for students.

4. Al‑Hikmah University

Location: Ilorin, Kwara State
Estimated school fees: ₦161,000 – ₦600,000

Al-Hikmah University is an Islamic faith-based institution known for combining religious and modern education.

5. Wellspring University

Location: Benin City, Edo State
Estimated school fees: ₦213,000 – ₦575,000

This private university offers courses in cyber security, nursing, accounting, and computer science.

6. Caritas University

Location: Enugu State
Estimated school fees: ₦220,000 – ₦390,000

Caritas University is a Catholic-owned university offering programs in engineering, management sciences, and natural sciences.

7. Paul University Awka

Location: Anambra State
Estimated school fees: ₦190,000 – ₦350,000

Paul University provides affordable programs in law, social sciences, and management courses.

8. Fountain University

Location: Osogbo, Osun State
Estimated school fees: ₦250,000 – ₦400,000

Fountain University is owned by the Nasrul-Lahi-il-Fathi Society and offers affordable programs in sciences and humanities.

9. Rhema University

Location: Aba, Abia State
Estimated school fees: ₦300,000 – ₦450,000

Rhema University provides degree programs in medicine, social sciences, and management courses.

10. Adeleke University

Location: Ede, Osun State
Estimated school fees: ₦270,000 – ₦450,000

Owned by Nigerian billionaire Adedeji Adeleke, the university offers courses in engineering, business, and sciences.

11. Tansian University

Location: Anambra State
Estimated school fees: ₦300,000 – ₦400,000

Tansian University is a Catholic-owned institution known for moderate tuition fees and strong academic discipline.

12. Joseph Ayo Babalola University

Location: Osun State
Estimated school fees: ₦350,000 – ₦436,000

This university was founded by the Christ Apostolic Church and offers programs in science, engineering, and humanities.

13. Newgate University Minna

Location: Niger State
Estimated school fees: ₦400,000 – ₦450,000

Newgate University focuses on programs such as nursing, public health, and information technology.

14. Claretian University of Nigeria

Location: Imo State
Estimated school fees: ₦258,000 – ₦350,000

Claretian University provides affordable education with programs in management and social sciences.

15. Renaissance University

Location: Enugu State
Estimated school fees: ₦200,000 – ₦700,000

Renaissance University offers programs in computer science, microbiology, and political science.

16. Lead City University

Location: Ibadan, Oyo State
Estimated school fees: ₦200,000 – ₦450,000

Lead City University is known for programs in law, medicine, engineering, and business administration.

17. Bowen University

Location: Iwo, Osun State
Estimated school fees: ₦84,000 – ₦1,185,000 depending on course

Bowen University offers programs in medicine, law, engineering, and social sciences.

18. Veritas University

Location: Abuja
Estimated school fees: ₦690,000 – ₦2,000,000

The university is owned by the Catholic Church and offers a wide range of programs.

19. Redeemer’s University

Location: Osun State
Estimated school fees: ₦600,000 – ₦1,450,000

Redeemer’s University is owned by the Redeemed Christian Church of God and offers science and management courses.

20. Landmark University

Location: Kwara State
Estimated school fees: ₦532,000 – ₦675,000

Landmark University focuses mainly on agriculture, engineering, and science programs.

Why Many Students Choose Cheap Private Universities

Private universities offer several advantages:

1. Stable Academic Calendar

Unlike many public universities, private universities rarely experience strikes.

2. Better Learning Environment

Students often benefit from smaller class sizes and modern facilities.

3. Faster Graduation

Most programs run without delays.

VIEW ALSO : Full School Fees of All Federal Universities in Nigeria

Average Cost of Studying in a Private University in Nigeria

Here is a rough yearly budget for students:

Total yearly budget:

₦500,000 – ₦1,200,000

Factors to Consider Before Choosing a Private University

Before applying to any private university, consider the following:

• Accreditation status
• Tuition and hidden charges
• Hostel facilities
• Course availability
• Location and cost of living

These factors will help you choose the best university for your budget and career goals.

Conclusion

Although many private universities in Nigeria charge high tuition, several institutions offer affordable education starting from around ₦170,000 per session depending on the course and level.

Some of the cheapest private universities in Nigeria include:

• Oduduwa University
• Obong University
• Ajayi Crowther University
• Al-Hikmah University
• Wellspring University

These universities provide opportunities for students who want quality education without the high cost of elite private universities.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Which is the cheapest private university in Nigeria?

Oduduwa University and Obong University are often considered among the cheapest private universities in Nigeria.

2. How much are private university fees in Nigeria?

Private university tuition usually ranges from ₦170,000 to over ₦1 million per session, depending on the course and institution.

3. Are private universities better than federal universities?

Private universities often offer better facilities and stable academic calendars, but federal universities are usually cheaper.

4. Do private universities provide hostel accommodation?

Yes, most private universities provide hostels that cost between ₦50,000 and ₦200,000 per session.

5. Can I pay private university fees in installments?

Yes. Many private universities allow flexible payment plans to help students manage tuition costs.