The best Nigerian Universities for medicine students which offer good medical education in Nigeria are University of Ibadan, Lagos State University, Obafemi Awolowo Universities and more.. 

This article reveals the 20 best Nigerian Universities for medicine, it explores the medical education in Nigeria universities listed below as well as a brief guide to choose the best medical school for your medical education in Nigeria.

Ensure to read the article to the end in order to get the full detail, feel free to use the table of contents to skip ahead if need be. Drop comments and ask questions in the box below the page if the need arises. Now let’s dive into it.

Introduction to the 20 Best Nigerian Universities for Medicine

Medical education in Nigeria has a long history, with institutions producing some of the best medical professionals in Africa and beyond. The journey toward becoming a doctor in Nigeria typically involves earning an MBBS (Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery), a six-year program. Medical schools are regulated by the Medical and Dental Council of Nigeria (MDCN), which ensures that graduates are qualified to practice medicine. The country’s teaching hospitals provide practical training for medical students, preparing them for real-world challenges.

Here are a list of 20 Best Nigerian Universities for Medicine

1. University of Ibadan (UI)

As Nigeria’s premier university, the University of Ibadan (UI) boasts one of the oldest and most prestigious medical schools. Established in 1948, the College of Medicine has made significant contributions to medical research and clinical practice. 

UI’s teaching hospital, the University College Hospital (UCH), is renowned for its state-of-the-art facilities, and the medical school is involved in groundbreaking research, particularly in fields like infectious diseases and public health. UI also offers various postgraduate programs, enabling continuous learning for its students.

2. Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), Ile-Ife

Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU) is another key player in Nigeria’s medical education landscape. The College of Health Sciences at OAU, established in 1971, has produced many prominent medical professionals. 

The university’s teaching hospital, Obafemi Awolowo University Teaching Hospitals Complex (OAUTHC), is well-equipped for both education and patient care. OAU is known for its focus on community health and boasts strong global partnerships in medical research.

3. Ahmadu Bello University (ABU), Zaria

Located in northern Nigeria, Ahmadu Bello University (ABU) is a leading institution for medical education. Its Faculty of Medicine is one of the oldest in the region, and the associated Ahmadu Bello University Teaching Hospital (ABUTH) provides top-tier training for its students. 

ABU is also known for its research into tropical diseases and its focus on healthcare challenges specific to northern Nigeria, including malaria and infectious diseases.

4. University of Lagos (UNILAG)

The University of Lagos (UNILAG) offers a vibrant medical education experience. The university’s Faculty of Clinical Sciences, in partnership with Lagos University Teaching Hospital (LUTH), is renowned for offering comprehensive medical training. 

LUTH provides cutting-edge healthcare services, and students benefit from exposure to a wide range of medical conditions. UNILAG’s research output, particularly in medical technology and clinical trials, is notable on the national and global stages.

5. Lagos State University Teaching Hospital (LASUTH)

Although LASUTH is primarily a teaching hospital, it has carved out a significant role in Nigeria’s medical education sector. The Lagos State University College of Medicine (LASUCOM) offers robust medical programs that focus on practical training in healthcare. 

LASUTH has a strong reputation for its contributions to medical research and community health, with special emphasis on addressing the healthcare needs of Lagos’ large and diverse population.

6. University of Nigeria (UNN), Nsukka

The University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN) is home to one of Nigeria’s most respected medical schools. Founded in 1960, the university’s Faculty of Medical Sciences has grown to offer extensive clinical training through its University of Nigeria Teaching Hospital (UNTH). UNN’s focus on research, particularly in areas like surgery and obstetrics, has earned it a strong reputation in West Africa.

7. University of Benin (UNIBEN)

The University of Benin’s College of Medical Sciences is known for its well-rounded medical education. UNIBEN’s teaching hospital is a hub for healthcare in the Niger Delta, providing students with hands-on experience in a wide variety of medical cases. 

The university has invested heavily in research, particularly in areas such as cardiovascular diseases and oncology, making it a leader in medical education in southern Nigeria.

8. Delta State University (DELSU)

Delta State University (DELSU) has made significant strides in medical education, especially in addressing the healthcare needs of rural and underserved populations. Its College of Health Sciences trains students to become versatile doctors who can provide quality healthcare in remote areas. 

The medical school’s curriculum emphasizes primary healthcare, equipping students to tackle challenges like maternal and child health in rural settings.

9. Niger Delta University (NDU)

Niger Delta University (NDU) is a relatively young institution, but its Faculty of Clinical Sciences has quickly gained recognition. Located in the heart of the Niger Delta, the school focuses on training medical professionals who are equipped to address the region’s unique healthcare challenges, such as environmental health issues and infectious diseases.

10. University of Ilorin (UNILORIN)

The University of Ilorin (UNILORIN) offers a competitive medical education through its College of Health Sciences. Known for its fast academic calendar, the university provides a conducive environment for learning and medical research. UNILORIN is also making strides in innovation, particularly in the areas of medical technology and clinical research.

11. University of Calabar (UNICAL)

The University of Calabar (UNICAL) is another respected institution in Nigeria’s medical education landscape. Its Faculty of Medicine has produced many successful doctors, and its teaching hospital plays a key role in healthcare delivery in southeastern Nigeria. 

UNICAL has an excellent track record in public health and tropical medicine, making it a crucial part of the country’s healthcare system.

12. University of Port Harcourt (UNIPORT)

UNIPORT’s medical school is known for its strong emphasis on clinical training and research. The university’s teaching hospital is one of the best in southern Nigeria, providing students with ample opportunities to gain hands-on experience. 

UNIPORT is also known for its research collaborations with international organizations, particularly in the areas of infectious diseases and maternal health.

13. Abia State University (ABSU)

Abia State University (ABSU) offers a robust medical program with a strong emphasis on community health. The university’s teaching hospital provides students with comprehensive clinical training, preparing them for various healthcare roles in Nigeria and beyond. ABSU is particularly noted for its work in family medicine and preventive healthcare.

14. Usmanu Danfodiyo University, Sokoto (UDUS)

Usmanu Danfodiyo University (UDUS) is a leading institution for medical education in northern Nigeria. The Faculty of Medicine focuses on addressing the region’s healthcare challenges, particularly those related to infectious diseases like tuberculosis and malaria. 

The teaching hospital provides students with ample practical experience, and the university’s research into tropical diseases has had a significant impact on healthcare in the region.

15. Afe Babalola University (ABUAD)

Afe Babalola University (ABUAD) is a relatively new but highly respected private institution. Its College of Medicine is known for its cutting-edge facilities and innovative curriculum. ABUAD places a strong emphasis on interdisciplinary learning and practical training, offering students access to a world-class teaching hospital. 

The university’s focus on research and healthcare innovation makes it one of the top private medical schools in Nigeria.

16. Babcock University, Ilishan-Remo

Babcock University is a private institution that offers a strong medical program. Its teaching hospital is equipped with modern facilities, providing students with a world-class learning environment. Babcock is also known for its focus on ethical medical practices, and its students are trained to provide compassionate, patient-centered care.

17. Bowen University, Iwo

Bowen University’s medical program is another notable addition to Nigeria’s private medical education sector. The university’s teaching hospital offers students comprehensive clinical training, and its focus on healthcare innovation has earned it a reputation for producing well-rounded medical professionals. Bowen University also emphasizes research and public health education.

18. Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka

Nnamdi Azikiwe University is home to a well-established Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences. The university’s teaching hospital is a key player in healthcare delivery in southeastern Nigeria, and the medical school has a strong focus on research. Students benefit from hands-on training in various medical specialties, including surgery, pediatrics, and obstetrics.

19. Federal University of Technology, Owerri (FUTO)

Although primarily known as a technology school, FUTO has made significant investments in health sciences. Its Faculty of Health Sciences focuses on interdisciplinary approaches to medicine, integrating technology into healthcare delivery. FUTO’s medical school is still growing, but it shows promise as a future leader in medical education in Nigeria.

Choosing the Right Medical School in Nigeria out of the 20 Best Nigerian Universities for Medicine

Choosing the right medical school is crucial for aspiring doctors. Factors to consider include the school’s accreditation by the MDCN, its facilities, the quality of its teaching hospitals, research opportunities, and the availability of postgraduate programs. Students should also consider the location, cost of education, and the type of medical training offered.

Conclusion on 20 Best Nigerian Universities for Medicine

Nigeria has many excellent medical schools that provide world-class education and training for future doctors. From prestigious institutions like UI and UNILAG to promising private universities like ABUAD and Babcock, aspiring medical professionals have a wealth of options. These universities are shaping the future of healthcare in Nigeria, contributing significantly to the global medical community.