Everything You Need To Know About University Of Benin (Uniben)

If you’ve ever typed “University of Benin” or “UNIBEN” into Google while biting your nails and dreaming of campus life, welcome. Sit down, grab a chilled bottle of malt, and let’s gist. Because this post? It’s the real gist, straight from someone who understands how Nigerian schools work, and not just the shiny brochure version.

Let’s dive into all things UNIBEN—what makes it tick, what to expect, what to fear, and what to absolutely prepare for. From its rich history to school fees, admission wahala, hostel drama, and student vibes, we’re leaving no stone unturned.

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A Brief History: UNIBEN Didn’t Start Yesterday

UNIBEN was born in 1970 as the Institute of Technology. A year later, it became a full-fledged university, and by 1975, it was taken over by the federal government. Ever since then, UNIBEN has grown into one of Nigeria’s most recognized universities. Think of it as that mature aunty who started early, made mistakes, but kept climbing the ladder.

Located in the heart of Benin City, Edo State, UNIBEN has two campuses—Ugbowo (the main one) and Ekehuan. It proudly waves the motto: “Knowledge for Service.” And truth be told, they do serve. Sometimes hot. Sometimes cold. But always with energy.

Rankings and Reputation: Is UNIBEN Worth the Hype?

Now, let’s talk rep. UNIBEN consistently ranks among the top 10 universities in Nigeria. Whether it’s research, academic output, or student population (yes, they’re plenty!), this university is always in the conversation.

With thousands of academic publications and citations, the school isn’t just about having fine buildings and big gates. Academically, it holds water. And when it comes to international recognition, it’s not doing badly either. So yes, if you’re thinking of putting UNIBEN on your JAMB form, you’re not making a foolish choice.

Faculties and Courses: From Engineering to Theatre Arts

If UNIBEN was a buffet, you’d be overwhelmed. With over 100 departments spread across 16 faculties, it offers almost everything:

• Faculty of Arts

• Faculty of Law

• Faculty of Medicine

• Faculty of Engineering

• Faculty of Education

• Faculty of Agriculture

• Faculty of Life Sciences

• Faculty of Social Sciences

• Faculty of Management Sciences

• Faculty of Environmental Sciences

• Faculty of Pharmacy

• Faculty of Physical Sciences

• Faculty of Veterinary Medicine

Whether you’re dreaming of becoming a lawyer, a pharmacist, a civil engineer, or a fine artist, UNIBEN probably has something for you. Just be ready to hustle—some courses are hot cakes, and getting in can feel like trying to enter a BRT during rush hour.

Admission Process: JAMB, Post-UTME, and the Real Struggle

Let’s not sugarcoat it—admission into UNIBEN is not beans. You need to be prepared, especially if you’re going for competitive courses like Medicine, Law, or Engineering.

What You’ll Need:

• Make UNIBEN your first choice in JAMB. Don’t joke with this.

• Score at least 200+ in your UTME. Higher if you’re aiming for popular departments.

• Have five credits in relevant O’Level subjects, including English and Maths.

• Pass the Post-UTME exam. Yes, that’s another battle entirely.

Direct Entry (DE) students can also apply if they have ND, HND, or A-Level qualifications. But even then, it’s survival of the fittest.

School Fees and Acceptance Fee: Budgeting Like a Pro

Before you get carried away, let’s talk money.

Freshers:

• Acceptance Fee: Around N60,000 (varies by department)

• Clearance/Registration: Add a few thousands more

• School Fees: Varies by faculty

  • Sciences and Engineering: N100,000 – N115,000

  • Arts and Social Sciences: N90,000 – N100,000

  • Medicine and Pharmacy: N120,000 – N140,000

Returning Students:

The fees reduce slightly for returning students but not by a huge margin. Budget wisely.

Also note: There are other charges like ICT levy, lab fees, and God-knows-what-fees. Nigerian universities will bill you for oxygen if they could.

Hostel Life: From Mandela Hall to Off-Campus Stress

UNIBEN hostels are legendary—both for the good and the bad. Getting a room on campus can feel like winning the lottery. Rooms are limited, and demand is high.

Popular hostels include:

• Hall 1 to Hall 5 (male and female)

• NDDC Hostel (relatively newer)

• Hall of Residence

• Ekenwan Hostel (for the other campus)

Rooms go for about N15,000 to N35,000 depending on location and room type. Some premium ones go as high as N60,000+. If you miss out, you’re left with off-campus options, where rent ranges from N70,000 to N200,000/year—plus the usual landlord drama.

Power? Water? Clean toilets? If you’re lucky. Just be emotionally prepared.

Campus Life: Not Just Books

This isn’t a monastery. Yes, you’re here to learn, but UNIBEN students know how to enjoy too. Expect:

• Departmental and faculty weeks

• Beauty pageants

• Religious fellowships (plenty of them!)

• Student Union Government (SUG) drama

• Local and national politics

• Jollof rice-fueled parties

UNIBEN is also home to creatives, tech wizards, campus influencers, and student entrepreneurs. So, whether you’re a bookworm or a budding TikTok star, there’s space for everyone.

Facilities: The Good, the Bad, the Manageable

Let’s be honest. UNIBEN has some solid facilities, but like every Nigerian university, some things are hit-or-miss.

The Good:

• John Harris Library is impressive.

• Teaching hospital (UBTH) is one of Nigeria’s best.

• Engineering workshops are functional.

• The ICT centre is active.

The Not-so-Good:

• Classrooms can be overcrowded.

• Lab equipment isn’t always up to date.

• WiFi? Don’t bet your life on it.

• Power supply depends on the mood of NEPA and generators.

But somehow, students survive and even thrive. Adaptability is the name of the game.

Alumni and Legacy: You’re in Good Company

UNIBEN alumni are everywhere—banking halls, courtrooms, hospitals, classrooms, media houses, and even the National Assembly. The school has produced thought leaders, innovators, public servants, and entertainers.

When you wear that green and white gown, know that you’re stepping into a legacy. Not just a school, but a family of thousands who’ve passed through those same gates and made their mark.

Final Thoughts: Should You Choose UNIBEN?

Short answer: Yes, if you’re serious and ready for the ride.

UNIBEN isn’t a fairy tale, but it’s a great institution. It’s got the name, the brains, the structure, and a student culture that builds resilience and creativity.

It’ll stretch you. It’ll test your patience. But it’ll also prepare you for real life in a way many other places won’t. If you’re lucky to gain admission, count it as a win. Just don’t come empty-headed or empty-pocketed.

Now over to you: Are you eyeing UNIBEN? Already in UNIBEN? Share your plans, your questions, or your gist in the comments.