Top 9 Private Universities To Study Medicine and Surgery in Nigeria
If you’re planning to study Medicine and Surgery in Nigeria but prefer the comfort and prestige of a private university? Then you landed on the right page as this blog reveals the top 9 private universities to study Medicine and Surgery In Nigeria.
With federal and state universities often plagued by strikes, overcrowding, and limited admission slots, many aspiring doctors are looking at private universities as a solid alternative.
But here’s the thing: not every private university in Nigeria is accredited to offer Medicine and Surgery. And even among those that are, the facilities, teaching standards, and reputations vary widely.
That’s why we have put together this updated list of the Top 9 Private Universities in Nigeria where you can study Medicine and Surgery—plus what makes each stand out.
Why Choose a Private University for Medicine in Nigeria?
Before we start listing out the private universities, let’s face it—studying Medicine is expensive anywhere in the world. But in Nigeria, private universities offer:
- Stable academic calendars (no ASUU strikes).
- Smaller class sizes, meaning more student–lecturer interaction.
- Modern facilities, including teaching hospitals and simulation labs.
- Global exposure, as some are affiliated with universities abroad.
Yes, tuition can be eye-watering. But if you or your sponsors can afford it, you’re getting value for money.
Top 9 Private Universities to Study Medicine & Surgery in Nigeria
Here’s the breakdown, starting with the most popular choices:
1. Afe Babalola University (ABUAD), Ado-Ekiti
- Founded: 2009
- College of Medicine Established: 2011
- Tuition Range: ₦2.5m – ₦3.5m per session
ABUAD is arguably the best private university for Medicine in Nigeria.
Its multi-billion-naira teaching hospital is one of the largest in West Africa.
The medical school is well-equipped, with foreign-trained lecturers and partnerships with international institutions.
2. Babcock University, Ilishan-Remo (Ogun State)
- Founded: 1959 (as Adventist College, became a university in 1999)
- College of Medicine Established: 2012
- Tuition Range: ₦3m – ₦4m per session
The school is faith-based (Seventh-Day Adventist), ensuring discipline and moral guidance alongside academics.
3. Bowen University, Iwo (Osun State)
- Founded: 2001 (Baptist-owned)
- College of Medicine Established: 2011
- Tuition Range: ₦2m – ₦3m per session
Bowen’s teaching hospital in Ogbomoso is well-recognized. The university emphasizes holistic medical training, combining technical knowledge with strong ethical grounding.
4. Igbinedion University, Okada (Edo State)
- Founded: 1999
- College of Health Sciences Established: 1999 (first private university to offer Medicine in Nigeria)
- Tuition Range: ₦3m – ₦4.5m per session.
Pioneer status matters. Igbinedion University produced the first private medical graduates in Nigeria. It has a long-standing reputation, though its facilities are not as flashy as ABUAD’s.
5. Madonna University, Elele (Rivers State)
- Founded: 1999
- College of Medicine Established: Early 2000s
- Tuition Range: ₦1.8m – ₦2.5m per session
- Why Choose Madonna?
Madonna University is one of the most affordable private medical schools. It has multiple campuses and a Catholic foundation, known for strict discipline.
6. Gregory University, Uturu (Abia State)
- Founded: 2012
- College of Medicine Established: 2014
- Tuition Range: ₦2m – ₦3m per session.
Though young, Gregory University is investing heavily in medical education. Their college of Medicine is fast gaining recognition in the South-East.
7. PAMO University of Medical Sciences, Port Harcourt (Rivers State)
- Founded: 2017
- Focus: Exclusively a medical university
- Tuition Range: ₦3m – ₦4m per session.
Unlike other universities with multiple faculties, PAMO is dedicated 100% to medical and health sciences. That focus means students get specialized training without competing with other disciplines for resources.
8. Bingham University, Karu (Nasarawa State)
- Founded: 2005 (ECWA-owned)
- College of Medicine Established: 2009
- Tuition Range: ₦2.5m – ₦3.2m per session.
Strategically located near Abuja, Bingham provides access to the capital’s healthcare facilities. It balances Christian ethics with medical professionalism.
9. Edwin Clark University, Kiagbodo (Delta State)
- Founded: 2015
- College of Medicine Established: Recently accredited
- Tuition Range: ₦1.5m – ₦2m per session.
A rising star in private education, Edwin Clark University is attracting attention for its affordable tuition compared to other private medical schools.
Quick Comparison Table
Below is a table that shows a quick comparison about the best private universities for medical education in Nigeria.
| University | Location | Tuition Range (₦) | Unique Strength |
|---|---|---|---|
| ABUAD | Ekiti | 2.5m–3.5m | World-class teaching hospital |
| Babcock | Ogun | 3m–4m | First private-trained doctors |
| Bowen | Osun | 2m–3m | Strong Baptist ethics |
| Igbinedion | Edo | 3m–4.5m | Pioneer of private medical schools |
| Madonna | Rivers | 1.8m–2.5m | Affordable & Catholic values |
| Gregory | Abia | 2m–3m | Growing fast in SE Nigeria |
| PAMO | Rivers | 3m–4m | Dedicated medical university |
| Bingham | Nasarawa | 2.5m–3.2m | Abuja proximity |
| Edwin Clark | Delta | 1.5m–2m | Affordable new option |
Things to Consider Before Choosing a Private Medical School
Before you decide on which of these universities to attend, you need to consider the following:
- Tuition and Other Costs – Remember, feeding, accommodation, books, and clinical fees add up.
- Accreditation – Always confirm that the university’s Medicine & Surgery program is approved by the NUC and MDCN.
- Facilities – A standard teaching hospital is non-negotiable.
- Reputation – Graduate recognition matters for housemanship and future residency.
- Location – Proximity to home, security, and living costs.
FAQs About Studying Medicine in Nigerian Private Universities
Here are some frequently asked questions and answers about private universities for medical education in Nigeria.
How many years does it take to study Medicine in Nigeria?
Typically 6 years, after which graduates proceed to one year of housemanship.
2. Which private university is the cheapest for Medicine?
Currently, Edwin Clark University and Madonna University offer the lowest tuition fees.
Which private medical school is considered the best?
ABUAD and Babcock University often rank highest due to facilities, recognition, and alumni success.
Do private university graduates get housemanship placements easily?
Yes. As long as the program is accredited by MDCN, graduates can compete for housemanship slots nationally.
Conclusion
Medicine and Surgery is one of the most prestigious and demanding courses in Nigeria. Choosing a private university ensures stability, quality facilities, and global exposure—but it comes at a cost.
If you can afford it, schools like ABUAD, Babcock, and Bowen offer world-class opportunities.
For those looking for more affordable options, Madonna and Edwin Clark University provide good value.
Whichever you choose, remember: success in Medicine isn’t just about the school, but your dedication, discipline, and resilience.
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