Getting a quality education without spending too much is possible if you know the right schools to target. Many students and parents search for the cheapest federal universities in Nigeria and their school news to help them plan their studies. Federal universities often have lower tuition compared to private institutions, and they offer recognized degrees accepted across the country. Top 25 Cheapest Federal Universities in Nigeria and Their School Fees
In this guide, we look at 25 affordable federal universities, their latest updates, and why they remain good choices for budget-conscious students.
Why Federal Universities Remain the Most Affordable Choice
Federal universities receive funding from the Federal Government, which helps to keep tuition fees lower than many state or private schools. While there are still other costs such as accommodation, acceptance fees, and departmental charges, the overall expense is usually much less than private alternatives.
Also, these universities often have long-standing reputations and offer a wide range of programs, making them appealing for students in different fields.
How We Compiled the List of the Cheapest Federal Universities in Nigeria
To compile this list, we looked at official tuition fee schedules, past school announcements, and verified student reports. Only institutions with confirmed low fees and credible academic records are included. The list is in no particular order, as fees can vary slightly based on department or level of study.
Top 25 Cheapest Federal Universities in Nigeria
1. Ahmadu Bello University (ABU), Zaria
ABU remains one of the most affordable with tuition fees starting from ₦20,000 for many courses. The school offers a wide range of programs from sciences to humanities.
Latest school news: ABU recently announced its new academic calendar for the 2024/2025 session, and students are advised to complete registration before resumption.
2. University of Ibadan (UI)
UI charges between ₦25,000 – ₦35,000 per session. for most undergraduate programs, excluding accommodation.
Latest school news: UI is currently reviewing its hostel allocation process to give priority to first-year and final-year students.
3. University of Lagos (UNILAG)
Fees range from ₦37,000 – ₦58,000 depending on the course. UNILAG offers quality teaching and strong alumni support.
Latest school news: UNILAG announced an upgrade to its online learning platform to improve access for remote learners.
4. Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU)
OAU’s tuition starts at about ₦25,000 – ₦35,000 per session. for arts and some science courses.
Latest school news: The management recently released the 2025/2026 Post-UTME schedule for prospective students.
5. University of Benin (UNIBEN)
With tuition between ₦15,000 and ₦45,000, UNIBEN is a solid choice for affordable learning.
Latest school news: UNIBEN is expanding its entrepreneurship program to include digital skills training.
6. University of Ilorin (UNILORIN)
Known for its stable academic calendar, UNILORIN charges around ₦100,000–₦150,000.
Latest school news: UNILORIN has opened applications for its 2025 sandwich degree program.
7. Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta (FUNAAB)
FUNAAB tuition fees range from ₦18,000 to ₦32,000 depending on the department.
Latest school news: FUNAAB announced a new student farm project aimed at providing hands-on training in agriculture.
8. Bayero University, Kano (BUK)
BUK charges between ₦30,000 and ₦45,000. The university is well-respected for its medical and science programs.
Latest school news: BUK has launched a new research grant scheme for postgraduate students.
9. University of Port Harcourt (UNIPORT)
With fees starting at ₦120,000, UNIPORT offers quality programs in engineering, medicine, and humanities.
Latest school news: UNIPORT has commenced online clearance for newly admitted students to speed up registration.
10. Federal University of Technology, Minna (FUTMINNA)
FUTMINNA tuition is about ₦22,000–₦37,000 depending on the course.
Latest school news: FUTMINNA will host its annual technology exhibition in October 2025.
Alright — here’s Part 2 of Top 25 Cheapest Federal Universities in Nigeria and Their School News following the same rules and tone.
11. Federal University of Technology, Akure (FUTA)
FUTA’s tuition fees are around ₦22,000–₦45,000 depending on the program. Known for engineering and environmental sciences.
Latest school news: FUTA announced the introduction of new renewable energy courses starting in the 2025 academic year.
12. Usmanu Danfodiyo University, Sokoto (UDUS)
Fees start from as low as ₦15,000 for several courses, making it one of the cheapest.
Latest school news: UDUS has expanded its e-library services to include access to international journals.
13. University of Calabar (UNICAL)
Tuition fees range between ₦22,000 and ₦35,000 depending on the faculty.
Latest school news: UNICAL management has fixed new dates for the postponed inter-faculty sports competition.
14. Federal University of Petroleum Resources, Effurun (FUPRE)
Fees start around ₦45,000, slightly higher but still affordable compared to private tech schools.
Latest school news: FUPRE is collaborating with international oil firms for student internship placements.
15. Michael Okpara University of Agriculture, Umudike (MOUAU)
Charges between ₦18,000 and ₦35,000 depending on the program.
Latest school news: MOUAU has opened applications for its 2025 agricultural extension training.
16. Federal University, Oye-Ekiti (FUOYE)
FUOYE tuition fees range from ₦35,000 to ₦50,000 depending on the course of study.
Latest school news: FUOYE announced the completion of new science laboratories for practical sessions.
17. Federal University, Dutse (FUD)
One of the newer institutions, with fees starting at ₦35,000.
Latest school news: FUD has partnered with foreign universities for exchange programs in computer science.
18. Federal University, Lokoja (FULOKOJA)
Fees range from ₦40,000 to ₦50,000 depending on the program.
Latest school news: FULOKOJA launched its 2025 entrepreneurship development scheme for final-year students.
19. Federal University, Lafia (FULAFIA)
Charges ₦30,000–₦45,000 depending on the faculty.
Latest school news: FULAFIA announced plans to open a new faculty of law in 2026.
20. Federal University, Kashere (FUKASHERE)
Fees start at ₦28,000 and go up to ₦40,000 for certain departments.
Latest school news: FUKASHERE introduced a scholarship program for students from low-income families.
21. Federal University, Dutsin-Ma (FUDMA)
Tuition is around ₦32,000–₦45,000 depending on the program.
Latest school news: FUDMA is introducing an online learning platform to support distance education.
22. Modibbo Adama University, Yola (MAU)
Fees range between ₦28,000 and ₦40,000.
Latest school news: MAU recently upgraded its ICT center to improve internet access for students.
23. Federal University, Wukari (FUWUKARI)
Charges around ₦35,000–₦48,000 depending on the course.
Latest school news: FUWUKARI launched a new mentoring program for freshers in collaboration with senior students.
24. Federal University, Gusau (FUGUS)
One of the most affordable, with tuition starting at ₦28,000.
Latest school news: FUGUS announced a new faculty of education to start in 2025/2026.
25. National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN)
NOUN’s fees are affordable, starting from ₦18,000 per semester for many programs.
Latest school news: NOUN recently introduced more online degree options to cater to working-class students.
Factors That Affect Tuition Costs in Federal Universities
While tuition fees in federal universities are generally low, there are factors that can make costs vary:
Course of Study: Professional programs like medicine, engineering, and law often cost more.
Level of Study: Some universities have slightly higher charges for final-year students.
Departmental and Faculty Fees: These are additional charges specific to certain programs.
How to Keep Up With School News and Updates
To stay informed about admission deadlines, tuition changes, and academic calendars, students can:
- Follow the university’s official website and social media pages.
- Join verified student WhatsApp or Telegram groups.
- Subscribe to email updates from credible education news platforms.
Final Thoughts
If you are looking for the cheapest federal universities in Nigeria and their school news, this list can guide you in making an informed choice. Apart from affordability, these schools offer recognized degrees, quality teaching, and opportunities for skill development.