Top 10 Universities in Nigeria to study Medicine and Dentistry according to world rankings
The University of Ibadan (UI) and the University of Nigeria, Nsukka, are among the best universities in Nigeria to study Medicine and Dentistry. This is according to the latest World University Rankings. Besides the two, there are other good institutions in the country to study medical courses.
Source: Twitter
TABLE OF CONTENTS
- Key takeaways
- Best universities in Nigeria to study Medicine and Dentistry - Top 10
- 10. Bayero University Kano (BUK)
- 9. Nnamdi Azikiwe University
- 8. University of Ilorin (UNILORIN)
- 7. University of Calabar
- 6. University of Benin (UNIBEN)
- 5. Ahmadu Bello University (ABU)
- 4. University of Lagos (UNILAG)
- 3. Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU)
- 2. University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN)
- 1. University of Ibadan (UI)
- Which university is best for studying Medicine in Nigeria?
- How many years does it take to study Medicine and Surgery in Nigeria?
- How many years does it take to study dentistry in Nigeria?
- How many universities offer dentistry in Nigeria?
- How many medical schools are in Nigeria?
- Which university has the lowest cut-off mark for Medicine in Nigeria?
- Which university is the best for dentistry?
- Which are the medical schools in Nigeria that do not require JAMB?
- Which universities offer medicine and surgery in Canada?
- What are some examples of private universities in Nigeria that offer programs in Medicine and Dentistry?
Key takeaways
- Medicine is considered one of the most competitive and prestigious courses in Nigeria.
- Leading the top 10 universities in Nigeria to study Medicine and Dentistry is the University of Ibadan.
- The University of Nigeria and the Obafemi Awolowo University are among the best institutions for the courses.
Best universities in Nigeria to study Medicine and Dentistry - Top 10
Nigeria boasts some of the top-rated institutions for medical courses in Africa. Explore the top 10 best universities in Nigeria to study medicine and dentistry in 2026 according to the latest Times Higher Education ranking. According to the ranking, the University of Ibadan and the University of Lagos are the best universities in Nigeria.
The two federal government-owned institutions rank between 605 and 966 globally. Discover why these facilities are considered among the best.
Ranking | University | Location |
1 | University of Ibadan (UI) | Ibadan |
2 | University of Nigeria | Nsukka |
3 | Obafemi Awolowo University | Ife |
4 | University of Lagos | Lagos |
5 | Ahmadu Bello University | Zaria |
6 | University of Benin | Benin |
7 | University of Calabar | Calabar |
8 | University of Ilorin | Ilorin |
9 | Nnamdi Azikiwe University | Awka |
10 | Bayero University Kano | Kano |
10. Bayero University Kano (BUK)
Source: Facebook
- Location: Kano City, Kano State
- Year founded: 1975
- Global ranking: 61
- Ranking in Africa: 1641
Bayero University Kano cannot miss the list of universities in Nigeria to study medicine and dentistry. Located in Kano, BUK is known for its rigorous academic programs and commitment to excellence in medical education.
The Faculty of Medicine at BUK provides a comprehensive curriculum that prioritizes hands-on learning, research, and clinical training.
9. Nnamdi Azikiwe University
Source: Twitter
- Location: Benin City, Edo State
- Year founded: 1970
- Global ranking: 1509
- Ranking in Africa: 55
Nnamdi Azikiwe University (UNIZIK) is considered among the best medical schools in Nigeria. This is due to its established reputation, strong faculty, and focus on practical training. It attracts top talent and offers comprehensive medical facilities.
8. University of Ilorin (UNILORIN)
Source: Twitter
- Location: Ilorin, Kwara State
- Year founded: August 1975
- Global ranking: 1423
- Ranking in Africa: 50
UNILORIN, situated in Ilorin, is well-known for its academic strength and dedication to student success in Medicine and Surgery. The Faculty of Health Sciences offers a medical program focusing on developing practical skills, research, and community service.
7. University of Calabar
Source: Facebook
- Location: Calabar, Cross River
- Year founded: 25 October 1975
- Global ranking: 1345
- Ranking in Africa: 47
The University of Calabar is known for its strong medical and surgical programs. In particular, its College of Medical Sciences and the University of Calabar Teaching Hospital (UCTH) are dedicated to medical education, research, and patient care. The institution is considered one of the most ideal universities in Nigeria to study Medicine.
6. University of Benin (UNIBEN)
Source: Facebook
- Location: Benin City, Edo State
- Year founded: 1970
- Global ranking: 1282
- Ranking in Africa: 45
Located in Benin City, the University of Benin (UNIBEN) is recognized for its high academic standards and dedication to producing well-rounded medical professionals.
The College of Medicine offers a challenging and thorough program designed to prepare students for the complexities of modern healthcare practice.
5. Ahmadu Bello University (ABU)
Source: Twitter
- Location: Zaria, Kaduna State
- Year founded: 4 October 1962
- Global ranking: 1203
- Ranking in Africa: 39
Located in Zaria, Ahmadu Bello University (ABU) is widely recognized for its dedication to innovative approaches to medical education. This makes the excellent institution one of the universities for medical studies in Nigeria.
The Faculty of Medicine at ABU offers a well-rounded curriculum that integrates theoretical learning with hands-on training.
4. University of Lagos (UNILAG)
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Source: Facebook
- Location: Yaba, Lagos State
- Year founded: 1962
- Global ranking: 1015
- Ranking in Africa: 26
Situated in Lagos, UNILAG is a prominent institution celebrated for its dynamic campus life and academic success in Medicine and Surgery.
The College of Medicine at UNILAG delivers a thorough curriculum that blends theoretical instruction with extensive hands-on clinical exposure.
3. Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU)
Source: Twitter
- Location: Ile-Ife, Osun State
- Year founded: 1961
- Global ranking: 982
- Ranking in Africa: 24
Located in the historic city of Ile-Ife, Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU) is widely recognized as one of the best universities in Nigeria to study Medicine.
The Faculty of Clinical Sciences at OAU offers a robust medical program that fosters critical thinking, innovative problem-solving, and a compassionate approach to patient care.
2. University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN)
Source: Twitter
- Location: Nsukka, Enugu State
- Year founded: 7 October 1960
- Global ranking: 966
- Ranking in Africa: 23
Located in Nsukka, UNN is famous for its academic rigour and research-driven approach to medical education. It is arguably the second-best school to study medicine in Nigeria.
The Faculty of Medical Sciences offers a comprehensive program emphasizing experiential learning and interdisciplinary collaboration.
1. University of Ibadan (UI)
Source: Twitter
- Location: Ibadan, Oyo State
- Year founded: 1948
- Global ranking: 605
- Ranking in Africa: 10
The University of Ibadan (UI) is regarded as the top university in Nigeria to study Medicine and Dentistry for many reasons. Its College of Medicine stands out as a hub of excellence in Medicine and Surgery.
With decades of rich history, UI offers cutting-edge facilities, including advanced laboratories, simulation centres, and teaching hospitals.
Which university is best for studying Medicine in Nigeria?
The University of Ibadan is considered the best university to study Medicine in Nigeria. It ranks number 10 in Medicine in Africa and 605 globally.
How many years does it take to study Medicine and Surgery in Nigeria?
Studying Medicine and Surgery (MBBS) in Nigeria takes about 6 years. The program is typically divided into basic sciences (pre-clinical section) and a clinical section.
How many years does it take to study dentistry in Nigeria?
In Nigeria, studying Dentistry typically takes 6 years for the Bachelor of Dental Surgery (BDS) degree, which includes both pre-clinical and clinical training. After graduation, graduates must complete a 1-year mandatory internship before full professional practice.
How many universities offer dentistry in Nigeria?
In Nigeria, about 20 universities offer Dentistry (Bachelor of Dental Surgery, BDS) programmes, including a mix of federal, state, and private institutions.
How many medical schools are in Nigeria?
There are currently 48 medical schools in Nigeria, according to the Medical and Dental Council of Nigeria (MDCAN).
Which university has the lowest cut-off mark for Medicine in Nigeria?
Ahmadu Bello University, situated in Zaria, Kaduna State, has the lowest cut-off mark for the Medicine and Surgery program at 220. The institution is known for its academic excellence.
Which university is the best for dentistry?
The University of Ibadan (UI) and the University of Lagos (UNILAG) are widely regarded as the best for studying Dentistry, offering strong academics, modern facilities, and extensive clinical training.
Which are the medical schools in Nigeria that do not require JAMB?
In Nigeria, almost all reputable medical schools require JAMB for admission into Medicine and Surgery (MBBS) or Dentistry (BDS) programmes. However, a few private universities, such as Madonna University, Bowen University, and Novena University, sometimes offer alternative entry routes or foundation programmes that may allow admission without JAMB.
Which universities offer medicine and surgery in Canada?
In Canada, Medicine and Surgery (MD) programmes are offered by 17 accredited medical schools across the country, including top institutions such as the University of Toronto, McGill University, University of British Columbia, University of Alberta, and McMaster University.
What are some examples of private universities in Nigeria that offer programs in Medicine and Dentistry?
Some private universities in Nigeria that offer Medicine and Dentistry programmes include Babcock University, Igbinedion University, Madonna University, Novena University, and PAMO University of Medical Sciences.
You can enrol in one of the top 10 Universities in Nigeria to study Medicine and Dentistry. According to world rankings, these institutions have the best and most modern faculties for equipping medical learners with knowledge and skills.
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