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147 Private Varsities In Nigeria [FULL LIST]
Data from the website of the National Universities Commission, the regulatory body for universities in Nigeria, revealed that there are currently 147 private universities spread across the 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory of the federation.
As the demand for quality university education rises owing to industrial crises and issues of poor funding in the public tertiary education sub-sector, there seems to be a growing demand for private universities in the country.
Between January 1, 2023 and June 27, 2023, the NUC gave provisional licences to 37 private universities.
The PUNCH highlights the 147 private universities as approved by the NUC.
1. Babcock University, Ogun State
2. Madonna University, Anambra State
3. Igbinedion University, Edo State
4. Bowen University, Osun State
5. Benson Idahosa University, Edo state
6. Covenant University, Ogun state
7. Pan-Atlantic University, Lagos State
8. American University of Nigeria, Adamawa State
9. Ajayi Crowther University, Oyo State
10. Al-Hikmah University, Ilorin, Kwara State
11. AI-Qalam University, Katsina, Katsina State
12. Bells University of Technology, Otta, Ogun State
13. Bingham University, New-Karu, Nasarawa State
14. Caritas University, Enugu, Enugu State
15. Crawford University, Igbesa, Ogun State
16. Crescent University, Abeokuta, Ogun State
17. Lead City University, Ibadan, Oyo State
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18. Kwararafa University, Wukari, Taraba State
19. Redeemer’s University, Mowe, Ogun State
20. Renaissance University, Enugu, Enugu State
21. University of Mkar, Mkar, Benue State
22. Novena University, Ogume, Delta State
23. Joseph Ayo Babalola University, Ikeji-Arakeji, Osun State
24. Veritas University, Abuja, FCT
25. Achievers University, Owo, Ondo State
26. African University of Science & Technology, Abuja
27. Caleb University, Imota, Lagos State
28. Fountain University, Oshogbo, Osun State
29. Obong University, Obong Ntak, Akwa Ibom State
30. Tansian University, Umunya, Anambra State
31. Wesley University of Science & Technology, Ondo State
32. Western Delta University, Oghara, Delta State
33. Salem University, Lokoja, Kogi State
34. Afe Babalola University, Ado-Ekiti – Ekiti State
35. Godfrey Okoye University, Ugwuomu-Nike, Enugu State
36. Nigerian-Turkish Nile University, FCT Abuja
37. Oduduwa University, Ipetumodu, Osun State
38. Paul University, Awka, Anambra State
39. Rhema University, Obama-Asa, Rivers State
40 Wellspring University, Evbuobanosa, Edo State
41. Adeleke University, Ede, Osun State
42. Baze University, FCT Abuja
43. Landmark University, Omu-Aran, Kwara State
44. Glorious Vision University (formerly Samuel Adegboyega University), Ogwa, Edo State
45. McPherson University, Seriki Sotayo, Ajebo, Ogun State
46. Elizade University, Ilara-Mokin, Ondo State
47. Southwestern University, Oku Owa, Ogun State
48. Evangel University, Ebonyi State
49. Gregory University, Uturu, Abia State
50. Augustine University, Ilara, Lagos State
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51. Chrisland University, Owode, Ogun State
52. Christopher University, Mowe, Ogun State
53. Hallmark University, Ijebu-Itele, Ogun State
54. Kings University Ode-Omu, Osun State
55. Michael & Cecilia Ibru University, Owhode, Delta State
56. Mountain Top University, Makogi/Oba, Ogun State
57. Ritman University, Ikot Ekpene, Akwalbom State
58. Summit University, Offa, Kwara State
59. Edwin Clark University, Kiagbodo, Delta State
60. Hezekiah University, Umudi, Imo State
61. Anchor University, Ayobo, Lagos State
62. Arthur Jarvis University, Akpabuyo, Cross River State
63. Clifford University, Abia State
64. Coal City University, Enugu state
65. Ojaja University, Ilorin, Kwara state
66. Dominican University, Ibadan, Oyo State
67. Kola Daisi University., Ibadan, Oyo State
68. Legacy University, Okija, Anambra State
69. Spiritan University, Neochi, Abia State
70. Precious Cornerstone, Ibadan, Oyo State
71. PAMO University of Medical Sciences, Port-Harcourt, Rivers State
72. Atiba University, Oyo, Oyo State
73. Eko University of Medical Sciences, Ijanikin, Lagos
74. Skyline University, Nigeria, Kano, Kano State
75. Greenfield University, Kasarami-Kaduna, Kaduna State
76. Dominion University, Ibadan, Oyo State
77. Trinity University, Laloko, Ogun State
78. Westland University, Iwo, Osun State
79. Topfaith University, Mkpatak, Akwa-Ibom State
80. Thomas Adewumi University, Oko-Irese, Kwara State
81. Maranatha University, Lekki, Lagos State
82. Ave-Maria University, Piyanko, Nasarawa State
83. AL-Istigama University, Sumaila, Kano State
84. Mudiame University, Irrua, Edo State
85. Havilla University, Nde-Ikom, Cross River State
86. Claretian University of Nigeria, Nekede, Imo State
87. Karl-Kumm University, Vom, Plateau State
88. Nok University, Kachia, Kaduna State
89. James Hope University, Lekki, Lagos state
90. Maryam Abacha American University of Nigeria, Kano, Kano State
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91. Capital City University, Kano, Kano State
92. Ahman Pategi University, Patigi, Kwara State
93. University of Offa, Offa, Kwara State
94. Mewar University, Masaka, Nasarawa State
95. Edusoko University, Bida, Niger State
96. Philomath University, Kuje, Abuja
103. Sports University, Idumuje, Ugboko, Delta State
104. Baba-Ahmed University, Kano, Kano State
105. Saisa University Of Medical Sciences and Technology, Sokoto, Sokoto State
106. Nigerian British University, Asa, Abia State
107. Peter University, Achina-Onneh, Anambra State
108. Newgate University, Minna, Niger State
109. European University of Nigeria, Abuja, FCT
110. Northwest University, Sokoto, Sokoto State
111. Rayhaan University, Kebbi State
112. Muhammad Kamalud-Deen University, Ilorin, Kwara State
113. Sam Maris University, Supare, Ondo State
114. Aletheia University, Ago-Iwoye, Ogun State
115. Lux Mundi University, Umuahia, Abia State
116. Maduka University, Ekwegbe, Enugu State
117. Peaceland University, Enugu, Enugu State
118. Amadeus University, Amizi, Abia State
119. Vision University, Ikogbo, Ogun State
120. Azman University, Kano, Kano State
121. Huda University, Gusau, Zamfara State
122. Franco British International University, Kaduna, Kaduna State
123. Canadian University of Nigeria, Abuja, FCT
124. Miva Open University, Abuja, FCT
125. Gerar University of Medical Sciences, Imope-ljebu, Ogun State
126. British Canadian University, Obudu, Cross River State
127. Hensard University, Toru-Orua, Bayelsa State
128. Phoenix University, Agwada, Nasarawa State
129. Wigwe University, Isiokpo, Rivers State
130. Hillside University of Science and Technology, Okemesi Ekiti, Ekiti State
131. University on the Niger, Umunya, Anambra State
132. Elrazi University of Medical Sciences, Kano Kano State
133. Venite University, Iloro-Ekiti, Ekiti State
134. Shanahan University, Onitsha, Anambra State
135. The Duke Medical University, Calabar, Cross River State
136. Mercy Medical University, Iwara, Iwo, Osun State
137. Cosmopolitan University, Abuja, FCT
138. Iconic Open University, Sokoto, Sokoto State
139. West Midland Open University, Ibadan, Oyo State
140. Amaj University, Abuja, FCT
141. Prime University, Abuja, FCT
142. El-Amin University, Niger State
143. College of Petroleum and Energy Studies, Kaduna, Kaduna State
144. Jewel University, Gombe, Gombe State
145. Nigerian University of Technology and Management, Apapa, Lagos State
146. Al-Muhibbah Open University, Abuja, FCT
147. Al-Bayan University, Kogi state
News
FULL TEXT: Gen Musa’s Inaugural Speech As Defence Minister
Newly appointed Defence Minister, General Christopher Gwabin Musa (rtd), on Friday, delivered his inaugural speech as he assumed office, pledging to end the shedding of innocent blood and strengthen Nigeria’s security architecture.
Here is the full speech:
FULL SPEECH: ADDRESS BY GENERAL CHRISTOPHER GWABIN MUSA (RTD), ON HIS ASSUMPTION OF OFFICE AS MINISTER OF DEFENCE.
December 5, 2025
It is with profound humility and a deep sense of responsibility that I address you today in my new capacity as the Minister of Defence of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. Six weeks ago, I was in Kaki. Now, I am coming as the Minister. It can only be God. I thank President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, for the trust and confidence you have shown in me.
I take that very seriously. For me, it is indeed a privilege and an honour, after serving 39 years in service, to come in and now be the Minister of Defence of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. The love Nigerians have shown us reflects that people believe we can turn the tide.
But it is not rhetoric. It is by action. We must, firstly as Nigerians, take ownership of the responsibilities and challenges we face in our country.
It is only us who can solve the problem. It is when we agree within ourselves that we can deal with this, that we will succeed. God is with us, and He has always given us the responsibility to succeed.
This responsibility is one I accept with solemn reverence and unwavering commitment to the safety and security of our great nation, Nigeria. Let me also acknowledge the dedicated leadership of my predecessor and the relentless efforts of every one of you in this room.
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When I was the Chief of Defence Staff, you gave me all the support, and I truly appreciate it. I want to assure you that coming back as Minister, we want to do more for your welfare, well-being, and the administration of the Ministry. I strongly believe in reward and accountability. You do well, you are rewarded. We take corrective measures to ensure we succeed. I don’t believe in “na so we dey do am.”
We must assess everything that we are doing and see whether we can improve it. I believe in fostering a positive workforce. We are going to listen to your challenges, and whatever we can do to address them, we will. But I count on you also to put in your best. You know your task ahead. You don’t have to wait until somebody calls you or asks you a question. Do what you are supposed to do, and that will make it easier for us as a nation.
The task of securing the nation is continuous, and I am aware that you have been holding the line with dedication. I commend you all. For decades, my life has been defined by uniform, by the ethos of service, and by sacred covenants to defend the territorial integrity and citizens of Nigeria. I therefore come to this role not as a stranger to our security challenges, but as a comrade who has been in the trenches both literally and figuratively. I’ve seen firsthand the bravery of our troops, the complexity of our threats, and the role of strategic coordination. Like I always say, no single individual can achieve this alone. No single service operator can do it. We must work as Nigerians, making Nigeria better.
Consequently, my core philosophy in ensuring the affairs of this ministry is simple: operational effectiveness through unified action and strategic foresight. Ladies and gentlemen, we cannot afford to operate in silos.
We cannot tolerate gaps between policy and execution, or between the ministry and the services. This ministry will be a powerhouse of strategic direction, enabling support, and relentless accountability. We must provide that support for our troops to continue to succeed. They are sacrificing their lives out there in the field—day and night, thunderstorm or windstorm—whatever the situation, to ensure that we, Nigerians, can go to bed and sleep well. We must continue to pray for them. We must continue to provide the necessary support.
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Working as a team with other MDAs, Mr. President has made it very clear he will give us all the support we require and demands that we achieve success, which we have promised him. Within the first few weeks, we must show that we are committed: the ministry working inside, the troops working outside.
To translate this philosophy into action, my initial focus will rest on three interconnected pillars: enhancing joint operational strategy synergy. We will immediately begin a rigorous review of all theatre commands and inter-service operations. My door will be open, as always, to the Chief of Defence Staff and Service Chiefs for frank discussions on equipment, training, welfare, and strategy. Mr. President wants us to present our challenges, with the promise that they will be addressed. So it is left for us to do the needful.
Our goal is to overwhelm the adversaries with seamless jointness, not just cognition.
Welfare and Morale as a Force Multiplier
We all understand the importance of morale to our personnel and staff. We must therefore prioritise the timely provision of all necessary kits, ensure prompt payment of operational allowances, and vigorously address accommodation and medical care for our personnel and their families. Those not injured are watching how we treat the injured. If they are not taken care of properly, they will not give their best, because they will be apprehensive. Especially those who have lost their loved ones—the families want to know what will happen.
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It is our responsibility to take care of them. The aspect of actions that impugn their integrity is not acceptable. We must make payments seamless. We must treat them with respect. Anybody who is laying down their life for their country deserves the highest respect, and that is what we offer. I will be very critical about that.
Intelligence-Driven and Technology-Enabled Defence
The Ministry of Defence is the strategic brain of our national defence architecture. We must therefore leverage technology for intelligence, surveillance, and recurring service. We have partners and allies ready to support us. We will reach out to them to work as a team. We will also collaborate with other security agencies. Every Nigerian is vital to the success of Nigeria. We will foster a culture where data and intelligence drive our decisions, not just experience alone. I charge the Ministry to be a catalyst for innovation and efficient resource management.
Distinguished ladies and gentlemen, I expect the highest standards of professionalism, integrity, and urgency from all of us. We do not have time to waste. We will continue to hit the ground running. We must respect the human rights of Nigerians. If we make mistakes, we must take necessary action to make amends. I will always encourage candid advice and robust debates. But once a decision is taken, we must move as one united team.
There will be zero tolerance for corruption, indiscipline, or indolence. Our loyalty is to Nigeria and the Nigerian people. The President is the Commander-in-Chief; the bulk stops on his table. We must provide the support required to make Nigeria peaceful.
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Shedding of innocent blood is over. Our children should go back to school. Our farmers should go back to their farms. Most of the challenges we face are not military solutions—they are issues of good governance, justice, equity, and fairness, which we will encourage. Both non-kinetic and kinetic solutions must work hand in hand. We cannot afford to fail Nigerians. Charity begins at home; if we have the mindset that we will succeed, we will.
To the Service Chiefs, I offer my full support and expect your utmost cooperation to move the Armed Forces to greater heights. To the Department Secretary and the Civil Service cadre, you are the institutional memory and the framework for our sustainability. I value your expertise and count on your diligence to translate our military objectives into actionable administrative and budgetary policies.
The road ahead is demanding and will be tough. Let us not take it for granted. But because we are Nigerians, we shall overcome. The threats we face are adaptive and complex, but I have absolute faith in the indomitable spirit of our Armed Forces and the capable minds within the Ministry. With the support and prayers we are receiving from all Nigerians, we cannot fail.
In closing, let me once again reaffirm my commitment to lead with fairness, firmness, and loyalty to our Constitution. The President is doing everything possible to ensure our success. We must play our part. The task ahead is enormous, but surmountable. We can win. We will win. The good people of Nigeria are looking up to us for results, and we must deliver immediately. I am not here to preside; I am here to lead, to walk, and to deliver alongside you. I cannot do it alone. I thank you all as I look forward to our detailed work and the tasks ahead.
God bless you all, and God bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
Thank you.
— General Christopher Gwabin Musa (Rtd)
Minister of Defence, Federal Republic of Nigeria
News
Malami Breaks Silence On Alleged Terrorism Financing
A former Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Abubakar Malami, SAN, has broken his silence on allegations linking him to terrorism financing, dismissing the claims as baseless, misleading and politically motivated.
In a statement issued on Friday, Malami said he was compelled to respond after a publication suggested that he and several others had connections to persons described as terror suspects or alleged financiers.
Malami described the claims as “unfounded, unfair and contrary to both my record in public office and objective facts.”
The former minister stressed that he had never been accused, invited, interrogated or investigated by any security, law-enforcement or intelligence agency within or outside Nigeria for terrorism financing or any related offence.
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He said: “I state clearly and unequivocally that I have never at any time been accused, invited, interrogated, investigated or charged by any security, law-enforcement, regulatory or intelligence agency—within or outside Nigeria—in respect of terrorism financing or any related offence.”
Malami noted that even the retired military officer cited as the principal source of the publication admitted that he did not accuse Malami or the other individuals of financing terrorism, but merely referenced vague “business” or “institutional” connections allegedly linked to some suspects.
He said the publication misrepresented this clarification and was politically exploited to create damaging insinuations about him.
Malami warned that normal professional or institutional engagements must not be misconstrued as evidence of supporting terrorism.
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“To suggest that lawful professional or institutional engagements can be read as evidence of terrorism financing is both mischievous and unjust,” he said.
Highlighting his record, Malami listed several anti–money laundering and counter-terrorism reforms spearheaded during his tenure, including:
Establishment of the Nigerian Financial Intelligence Unit (NFIU) as an independent entity
Enactment of the Money Laundering (Prevention and Prohibition) Act, 2022
Enactment of the Terrorism (Prevention and Prohibition) Act, 2022
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He noted that improved inter-agency coordination under these laws contributed to Nigeria’s removal from the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) grey list.
“During my tenure, I worked to strengthen—not weaken—Nigeria’s legal and institutional framework against money laundering and the financing of terrorism,” he said.
Malami urged the media to exercise caution when reporting on sensitive national security issues, warning that careless publications can damage reputations and undermine confidence in state institutions.
He reaffirmed his commitment to the rule of law and Nigeria’s international obligations, adding that he reserves the right to seek redress against any publication that misrepresents his role in the fight against terrorism financing.
News
Otuaro Pledges To Expand PAP Scholarship As Beneficiaries Bag Master’s Degrees From UK Varsities
Administrator of the Presidential Amnesty Programme (PAP), Dr. Dennis Otuaro, has expressed his unwavering commitment to expanding the PAP scholarship scheme.
The PAP boss made the pledge at a graduation reception for nine students who were awarded foreign post-graduate scholarships by PAP in universities in the United Kingdom.
A statement by his Special Assistant on Media, Mr Igoniko Oduma, said the successful scholars are the first graduates in the offshore post-graduate scholarship deployment to UK institutions by the PAP Administrator, Dr Dennis Otuaro, for the 2024-2025 academic session.
According to the statement, they graduated from the Anglia Ruskin University, University of Dundee and The University of Law with master’s degrees in cyber security, data science and engineering, law, construction and civil engineering management, project management, and ICT.
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Otuaro disclosed in the statement that 711 undergraduate and post-graduate scholarship beneficiaries are expected to graduate from universities within Nigeria this year.
According to Otuaro, the expansion of the scholarship scheme is aimed at creating more opportunities for indigent students of Niger Delta extraction to access higher education with a view to closing the human capital development gap in the region.
Otuaro said it was for this reason he deployed 3800 beneficiaries in-country in the 2024-2025 academic year, and increased the figure to 3900 in the 2025-2026 academic session with 200 for foreign scholarships.
He said under his administration, 7700 students have been so far deployed for the PAP scholarship scheme within Nigeria in less than two years.
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According to him, aince he took over, he has deployed 162 students from the region for post-graduate programmes in targeted disciplines in the UK universities.
According to him, this is in conformity with the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Tinubu for the Niger Delta, who has given unprecedented support to the PAP because of his sincere love for the area.
The PAP boss said, “Our decision aligns with the Renewed Hope Agenda of His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR for the Niger Delta. We will continue to create more higher educational opportunities for students from indigent backgrounds in our region.
“We are also deepening the implementation of the programme’s mandate in informal education and other areas for the sustainable peace and socio-economic advancement of the region.”
Otuaro, who congratulated the master’s graduates on their successful graduation, stressed that they completed their programmes in record time which shows the seriousness they had put into their studies.
He said they have justified the Federal Government’s investment in their education with their successful graduation, and urged other beneficiaries not to be distracted in their academic pursuits.
“We congratulate these scholars on their successful graduation. It shows that they took their studies seriously. That is what we demand of every scholarship beneficiary, whether at the undergraduate or post-graduate level”, Otuaro said.
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