Nigeria’s federal universities are funded primarily by the federal government, offering the most affordable tertiary education in the country.
Despite periodic increases driven by inflation and operational costs, their fees remain lower than private institutions.
Federal Universities in Nigeria and Their School Fees
These are the current school fees for federal universities, both the cheapest institutions and those with higher costs, based on recent data.
University of Ilorin (UNILORIN), Kwara State
UNILORIN is recognized as one of the cheapest federal universities, with annual tuition ranging from ₦22,000 to ₦25,000 depending on the course. This low tuition reflects a strong government subsidy, making it a budget-friendly top-tier option for many Nigerian students.
University of Ibadan (UI), Oyo State
UI remains affordable even as one of Nigeria’s most prestigious universities. Fees fall between ₦30,000 and ₦50,000 per session, depending on the course. This clean fee structure, combined with academic excellence explains its appeal to students nationwide.
Usmanu Danfodiyo University (UDUSOK), Sokoto State
This institution offers an excellent option for students on a budget. Fees range from ₦25,000 to ₦55,000, keeping costs low while maintaining high academic standards. The affordability includes tuition for popular courses like Law, Education, and Agriculture.
Ahmadu Bello University (ABU), Zaria, Kaduna State
ABU features tuition costs from ₦33,000 to ₦45,000, depending on the chosen program. As Nigeria’s largest federal university, ABU balances wide course offerings with moderate fees comparable to top public schools.
Bayero University, Kano (BUK)
BUK charges between ₦38,500 and ₦49,000 per session based on the course. The university provides science, arts, and professional courses at accessible rates.
University of Calabar (UNICAL)
Annual tuition fees at UNICAL range from ₦31,000 to ₦61,340, again depending on the course. This makes it one of the more affordable options in the South-South region.
Federal University of Technology, Akure (FUTA)
FUTA’s tuition ranges from ₦51,300 to ₦62,300, reflecting premium costs for engineering and technology programs. These fees remain competitive compared to private engineering schools.
Federal University of Technology, Minna (FUTMINNA)
Fees for FUTMINNA fall between ₦48,300 and ₦61,200 per session, making it an affordable choice among federal tech universities.
Federal University of Technology, Owerri (FUTO)
FUTO’s tuition runs between ₦48,300 and ₦61,500 per session. Its affordable fee structure supports its recognition as a top tech institution.
Federal University of Petroleum Resources, Effurun (FUPRE)
As a specialized university, FUPRE charges between ₦78,900 and ₦91,900 annually for top-tier oil and gas courses. These costs reflect the industry-standard focus of its programs.
Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), Ile-Ife
OAU charges between ₦43,000 and ₦58,000 depending on the course. As a federal “elite university,” it maintains mid-range fees with strong programs in Medicine, Engineering, and Law.
University of Lagos (UNILAG)
UNILAG’s tuition ranges from ₦66,000 to ₦100,000, depending on the course and laboratory requirements. For example, medicine students pay the upper end near ₦100,000 . These fees include lab charges, making it costlier than some other federal universities.
University of Port Harcourt (UNIPORT)
UNIPORT tuition ranges from ₦92,150 to ₦135,000 per session. A well-funded institution with extensive engineering and oil-industry programs, it commands higher fees, especially for arts and science students.