Zaria, Kaduna State, is a major center for healthcare training in northern Nigeria and home to multiple accredited nursing institutions.
Students can choose between federal and state-run Schools of Nursing, and even college‑level programmes.
Each school’s fee structure varies based on ownership, duration, and training level.
This guide helps prospective candidates understand their nursing options in Zaria and plan their budget accordingly.
Which federal nursing school operates in Zaria?
The Ahmadu Bello University Teaching Hospital (ABUTH) School of Nursing, located in Shika-Zaria, is a federal institution.
It offers a three‑year basic nursing programme (Registered Nurse certificate) and is regulated by the Nursing & Midwifery Council of Nigeria (NMCN).
How much does ABUTH School of Nursing charge per year?
Federal institutions are among the most affordable. At ABUTH School of Nursing, annual fees are estimated between ₦100,000 and ₦200,000 per session.
Some sources list ₦110,000–₦150,000 for the three-year training.
Are there state-run nursing institutions in Zaria?
Yes. The Kaduna State College of Nursing and Midwifery, located in Kaduna but serving Zaria residents, also offers Basic Nursing and Midwifery training.
Fees here are ₦60,000 (1st year), ₦50,000 (2nd), and ₦40,000 (3rd year)—extremely affordable.
Are there private nursing schools in Zaria?
Currently, Zaria has no major private nursing schools. Most private institutions offering nursing degrees operate in Ogun, Ekiti, Edo, and Lagos States.
In Zaria, nursing education largely depends on ABUTH and Kaduna State offerings.
What do students pay beyond tuition?
Additional costs at ABUTH and Kaduna State schools may include:
- Application/registration fees (e.g., ABUTH charges ~₦7,500 for Basic Nursing forms)
- Uniforms, textbooks, training kits (₦20,000–₦50,000)
- Health screening and medical tests
- Hostel or transport costs—town accommodation at Zaria averages ₦120,000 annually, often self-catering
What admission requirements must I meet?
- Five (5) O-Level credits including English, Mathematics, Biology, Chemistry, and Physics in no more than two sittings.
- At least 17 years of age at the point of admission.
- For ABUTH, you must pass the institution’s entrance exam and oral interview.
- Kaduna State College follows similar criteria but may use internal screening and midwifery/NMCN standards.
Which option suits different types of students?
- If you seek affordability and accreditation, ABUTH School of Nursing (₦110k–₦150k) or Kaduna State College (₦60k–₦70k first year) offer the most value.
- Kaduna State College is cheaper, but ABUTH provides stronger clinical exposure within a federal teaching hospital.
- For degree-level nursing, you’d need to apply to university-based programs outside Zaria, like ABU main campus or Kaduna State University.