Top 10 Accredited Nursing Schools In Nigeria 2025: Best For Academic Excellence And High Employability Rate
Are you looking to pursue a career in nursing in Nigeria? Choosing the right nursing school can make a big difference. In 2025, the demand for highly trained nurses is growing fast, both in Nigeria and abroad. To help you make a smart choice, we’ve compiled a list of the Top 10 Accredited Nursing Schools in Nigeria, based on academic excellence, full accreditation, and graduate employability.
Top 10 Accredited Nursing Schools in Nigeria (2025)
S/N | Nursing School | Location | Ownership | Accreditation Status | Highlight |
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1 | University of Ibadan (UI) – Dept. of Nursing | Ibadan, Oyo State | Federal | Fully Accredited (NMCN) | Top-ranked, oldest university |
2 | University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN) – Dept. of Nursing | Enugu State | Federal | Fully Accredited | Excellent clinical training |
3 | Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), Ile-Ife | Osun State | Federal | Fully Accredited | Research-focused program |
4 | University of Lagos (UNILAG) – School of Nursing | Lagos State | Federal | Fully Accredited | High employability rate |
5 | Ahmadu Bello University Teaching Hospital (ABUTH) – School of Nursing | Zaria, Kaduna State | Federal | Fully Accredited | Intensive hospital-based learning |
6 | University of Benin (UNIBEN) – Dept. of Nursing | Edo State | Federal | Fully Accredited | Balanced academic and practical training |
7 | Lagos State College of Nursing, Midwifery & Public Health | Igando, Lagos State | State | Fully Accredited | Best-rated state nursing college |
8 | University of Ilorin Teaching Hospital (UITH) – School of Nursing | Kwara State | Federal | Fully Accredited | Strong clinical affiliations |
9 | Babcock University – Dept. of Nursing | Ogun State | Private | Fully Accredited | Christian-based holistic training |
10 | Usmanu Danfodiyo University – Dept. of Nursing | Sokoto State | Federal | Fully Accredited | High graduate success in licensing exams |
Why Accreditation Matters
Accreditation by the Nursing and Midwifery Council of Nigeria (NMCN) is the official approval needed for a school to train and graduate licensed nurses. Attending an accredited institution guarantees:
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Standard curriculum
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Eligibility to sit for NMCN exams
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Better internship and job placement opportunities
Best Reasons to Choose These Nursing Schools
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Strong Academic Standards – High-quality faculty and curriculum.
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Excellent Clinical Training – Strong ties with teaching hospitals.
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Employability – Graduates are often preferred in hospitals, clinics, and international job placements.
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Modern Facilities – Labs, hostels, libraries, and simulation centers are top-notch in most of these institutions.
FAQs
1. What is the duration of nursing training in Nigeria?
Most university-based B.NSc programs take 5 years, while hospital-based schools offer a 3-year diploma.
2. Can I study nursing at a private university?
Yes. Babcock University, Afe Babalola University, and others offer accredited nursing degrees.
3. Do nursing graduates get jobs easily in Nigeria?
Yes. Nurses are in high demand across government hospitals, private clinics, and international healthcare systems.
4. Is JAMB required to study nursing in Nigeria?
Yes, for university-based nursing programs. However, some schools of nursing may use entrance exams directly.
Conclusion
Choosing one of the Top 10 Accredited Nursing Schools in Nigeria in 2025 is a smart step toward a successful and rewarding nursing career. Whether you prefer a university environment or a hospital-based training center, these schools stand out for their excellence, experience, and employability rates.