Best State Universities in Nigeria (2026 Guide)

State universities in Nigeria are owned and funded by individual state governments. While they may charge slightly higher tuition than federal universities, many of them offer excellent academic programs, modern facilities, and competitive professional courses.

If you are searching for the best state universities in Nigeria, this detailed guide compares the top institutions based on academic quality, affordability, competitive courses, and admission requirements.

👉 You may also read our guide on Best Federal Universities in Nigeria to compare both categories.

Top 10 Best State Universities in Nigeria (2026)

1. Lagos State University(LASU)

LASU is widely regarded as the best state university in Nigeria. Located in Lagos State, it offers strong programs in Medicine, Law, Engineering, Accounting, and Business Administration.

General Cut-Off: 190–200+
Popular Courses: Medicine, Law, Accounting, Computer Science

2. Ambrose Alli University (AAU Ekpoma)

AAU is one of the most competitive state universities in Nigeria. It is known for Medicine, Law, Nursing, and Social Sciences programs.

👉 Read full guide: AAU Admission Requirements

3. Osun State University (UNIOSUN)

UNIOSUN has multiple campuses and offers strong programs in Nursing, Law, and Sciences.

4. Ekiti State University (EKSU)

EKSU is known for Education, Law, Arts, and Sciences. It attracts thousands of applicants yearly.

5. Delta State University (DELSU)

DELSU is respected for Medical Laboratory Science, Nursing, Engineering, and Management courses.

6. Rivers State University (RSU)

RSU is particularly strong in Engineering and Environmental Sciences.

7. Olabisi Onabanjo University (OOU)

OOU offers competitive programs in Law, Medicine, and Social Sciences.

8. Kaduna State University (KASU)

KASU provides affordable tuition and offers solid programs in Sciences and Social Sciences.

9. Imo State University (IMSU)

IMSU is competitive in Medicine, Law, and Business-related programs.

10. Benue State University (BSU Makurdi)

BSU is known for Arts, Education, and Sciences programs.

State Universities vs Federal Universities

Admission Requirements for State Universities

• Minimum JAMB score of 160–200
• Five O’Level credits including English
• Correct UTME subject combination
• Participation in Post-UTME screening
• Upload O’Level results on JAMB CAPS

How to Choose the Best State University

Before applying, consider:

• Accreditation status of your course
• School fees and living costs
• Departmental cut-off marks
• Location preference
• Graduate employability rate

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Which is the best state university in Nigeria?

Lagos State University (LASU) is widely regarded as the best state university.

2. Are state universities more expensive than federal universities?

Yes, tuition fees are generally higher in state universities.

3. What is the minimum JAMB score for state universities?

Most require 160–200 depending on the course.

4. Do state universities accept second choice?

Some do, but many require First Choice selection.