Everything You Need To Know About Nigerian Army University, Biu (Naub)

If you're looking for a university that's a bit off the beaten path but packs innovation, discipline, and structured education into one package, then Nigerian Army University, Biu (NAUB) deserves your attention. You're probably saying, "Army school? Really?" Yes—hear me out. NAUB is not about forcing you to crawl or salute every morning. It's about academics built on a security-savvy foundation. Stick around, as I dish out the full gist—with humor, honesty, and all the motivation you need.

Chapter 1: A University with a Difference

While most Nigerian universities were established decades ago, NAUB is a fresh, bold venture—established in 2018 by President Buhari’s administration. The university sits on a massive 5,000‑hectare parcel of land in Biu, Borno State. Yes, that gives you enough space to plant a forest—but NAUB aims to be Africa’s first green university, envisioning millions of trees growing across its sprawling campus. Imagine that: shade zones, oxygen-rich walkways, and sustainable development built right into your learning space.

NAUB’s unique mandate? To serve as a civilian–military institution that emphasizes defence technology, logistics, strategy, and innovation, while also offering traditional academic programs. The idea: train forward-thinking graduates who understand national security, digital infrastructure, and entrepreneurial excellence. Now that’s thinking ahead.

Chapter 2: Who Runs the School, and Who Studies There?

Here’s the interesting part—NAUB is a public federal university under Nigerian Army oversight, but open to both civilians and uniformed personnel. About 75% of students are civilians, while 25% are army or paramilitary members and their families. So don’t worry—no one will march you into formation unless you signed up for that side of things.

The university has seen steady leadership since inception:

• Prof. David Iliya Malgwi (the pioneer VC, 2019–2020), who laid much of the academic foundation

• Prof. Kyari Mohammed (2020–2025), with expertise in peace and security studies

• Prof. Lawan Bala Buratai, the current VC (appointed in April 2025), who is known for advancing NAUB’s academic and green‑university agenda

Yes, there’s structure, continuity, and a drive toward academic maturity.

Chapter 3: Academic Offerings—Where Strategy Meets Study

NAUB structures its learning across seven faculties, alongside institutes and research centers that blend military-logistics with civilian academic demands. Here’s the breakdown:

• Faculty of Arts, Management & Social Sciences

Courses like Economics, Criminology & Security Studies, Mass Communication, International Relations, Political Science, Psychology, Transport & Logistics Management, and Military History sit here.

• Faculty of Computing

This is where Computer Science, Cybersecurity, Software Engineering, and Information Systems thrive—ideal for Nigeria’s digital revolution.

• Faculty of Engineering & Technology

If you dream of building roads, robots, or renewable power infrastructure, check out Civil, Mechanical, Electrical/Electronics, Mechatronics, and Petroleum/Automotive Engineering.

• Faculty of Natural & Applied Sciences

Includes Plant Biotechnology, Environmental Chemistry, Substance Abuse Studies, STL, and traditional sciences like Biology, Chemistry, Mathematics, and Physics.

• Faculty of Environmental & Built Sciences

Programs such as Architecture, Urban & Regional Planning, Quantity Surveying, Estate Management, and Environmental Safety Technology.

• Faculty of Military Policy, Logistics & Strategy

This faculty is truly different—it offers Defence Economics, Combat Logistics, Military Strategy, National Defence Policy, Data Management for Combat Readiness, and Reintegration Studies.

• Faculty of Administrative & Management Studies

Offers Public Administration, Peace & Conflict Resolution, Logistics, and general Management Studies.

And then there’s:

• College of Postgraduate Studies for masters and doctoral pursuits

• Technology & Entrepreneurship Development Centre for startup-minded undergraduates

• Institute for Peace & Conflict Resolution

• School of Basic & Remedial Studies (IJMB Programme), useful for Direct Entry access

What you get is a fusion of traditional academics and strategy-focused learning—perfect for a digital warzone or boardroom readiness.

Chapter 4: How to Get In—Admission Essentials

Are you considering applying? Here’s what you need:

UTME & Post-UTME Route

• Minimum JAMB score: 180 (higher for some courses like Engineering or Computing).

• Five O’Level credits (including English and Maths required).

• Attend and pass the Post-UTME screening, which combines UTME and O’Level results.

Direct Entry (DE) Route

• Have an ND, HND, or A-Level certificate in relevant fields.

• You’ll need to apply and meet departmental requirements—straight into 200 level if accepted.

IJMB Pre-Degree Program

This pre-degree pathway prepares you for entry into NAUB or other federal universities for 200 level status. It’s fast and effective.

The admission process is structured and merit-based—just make sure you pick the university as your first choice and avoid slacking on uploading your documents.

Chapter 5: How It Costs—School Fees & More

Undergraduate Costs (2024/2025 estimates)

• Civilians: ₦200,000–₦250,000 per academic session

• Military/Paramilitary and families: ₦50,000–₦75,000 per session

Postgraduate Costs

• Civilians: ₦250,000–₦300,000

• Military/Paramilitary: ₦75,000–₦100,000 per session

Additional Fees (all students)

• Acceptance fee: ₦5,000

• Library: ₦2,500

• ICT/registration: ₦5,000

• Departmental and medical dues: Optionally ₦10,000–₦20,000 depending on programme

Accommodation

• Located inside the Nigerian Army Barrack, hostel fees are approximately ₦30,000 per session for civilians, and ₦10,000 for military families. Electricity and water are included. High security is guaranteed.

While NAUB costs more than some older federal universities, its commitment to security, innovation, and specialized learning is a solid justification.

Chapter 6: Campus Life and the Learning Experience

NAUB is still growing, but what's on the table already shows promise:

• Spacious campus filled with greenery and clean air, designed to allow student-led tree planting and green projects.

• Secure hostels within the army barracks, so you don’t worry about theft or cult cleavages.

• Well-equipped laboratories for computing, innovations in HVAC, robotics, and even military logistics simulations.

• Digital library with access to journals, e-books, and military research materials.

• Research centres focusing on defense studies, cybersecurity, and renewable energy.

• Clubs and societies—from debate clubs and tech fests to peace & conflict forums.

• The Student Union Government (SUG) has started giving a voice to students, with polite but strong appeals to management for improvements.

It’s a university with a balanced blend of discipline, innovation, and just-enough freedom to interact, discuss, and initiate change.

Chapter 7: Why NAUB Stands Out

Innovative Twins: Discipline + Entrepreneurship

You won’t find pop-up youth internships driving drone innovation in flashy cities quite like this. NAUB teaches you strategy, logistics, and then lets you build startup ideas in a secure environment.

Green Vision

Everyone has to plant at least 10 trees per year—all part of the drive to become Africa’s first green university. It’s not just slogans. It’s sustainability in generation.

Strike-Free Learning

ASUU doesn’t have jurisdiction here. That means your academic calendar sails smoothly—no “unplanned vacation” announcements.

Practical Exposure

It’s not textbook heavy. Expect projects involving simulations, defence logistics, environmental sustainability planning, and civic partnerships.

Civilian–Military Synergy

Learning among serving officers and students together creates a robust learning mix — combining sector knowledge with civilian resourcefulness.

Chapter 8: What to Think About Before Choosing NAUB

Let's keep it real:

• Location: Biu is quiet. No malls, no major nightlife, less globetrotting. If you’re city-dependent, that might feel limiting.

• Relatively new: Some infrastructure like full-scale sports facilities and multipurpose halls are still under construction.

• Higher tuition fees for civilians—expect to pay more in tuition than in older federal universities.

• Delayed administrative processes: acceptance letters, bursary payments, or hostel assignments can take time in your first semester.

But for many, these are minor trade-offs for a university that values structure, peace, innovation, and academic growth.

Final Thoughts: Who Is NAUB For?

• If you value order, innovation, and future-forward academic programmes, then yes—NAUB is for you.

• Want a degree that combines strategy, tech, green thinking, and logistics? You're in the right place.

• Don’t mind paying slightly more for structure, permanence, and a no-drama academic calendar? NAUB makes a lot of sense.

• Not about partying, but about building? This is your space.

In essence, Nigerian Army University, Biu is carving out a niche in Nigeria’s academic ecosystem. It's not your conventional campus, but it's definitely a university with intent, vision, and impact. If you’re planning for 2025/26 admission, stay sharp, meet your academic requirements, and consider NAUB if you're ready to align your education with discipline and innovation. You could end up not just with a degree, but with tools for national development.

Got questions? Planning to apply? Already studying here? Feel free to interact. Insights, excitement—or even constructive criticism—are welcome.