List of State Universities in Nigeria and Year Established

 
Nigeria is home to numerous state universities, many of which offer exceptional educational opportunities across a wide range of disciplines. These institutions cater to diverse academic and professional needs, providing an environment conducive to learning, innovation, and research. In this blog post, we will focus on the state universities in Nigeria, their establishment years, and a little description of each university.

1. Abia State University, Uturu: (1981)

Located in the serene town of Uturu in Abia State, Abia State University was established in 1981. The university has grown to become one of the prominent institutions in the southeastern region of Nigeria. Known for its diverse academic programs, it offers a variety of undergraduate and postgraduate degrees. The university's focus on research, community development, and international collaboration makes it a significant player in the Nigerian educational landscape.

2. Adamawa State University, Mubi: (2002)

Established in 2002, Adamawa State University is located in Mubi, Adamawa State. The university is dedicated to providing quality education and equipping students with the necessary skills to thrive in various industries. Adamawa State University offers programs in various fields, including social sciences, health sciences, engineering, and humanities, contributing to the socio-economic development of the region.

3. Adekunle Ajasin University, Akungba: (1999)

Adekunle Ajasin University, located in Akungba, Ondo State, was established in 1999. Named after the former Governor of Ondo State, Chief Adekunle Ajasin, the university focuses on providing holistic education to students. It offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs, with a special emphasis on research, culture, and societal development.

4. Akwa Ibom State University, Ikot Akpaden: (2010)

Akwa Ibom State University was founded in 2010 and is situated in Ikot Akpaden, Akwa Ibom State. The university offers a broad spectrum of academic programs, including sciences, engineering, business administration, and social sciences. Known for its state-of-the-art facilities and highly qualified staff, it provides an excellent learning environment for students.

5. Ambrose Alli University, Ekpoma: (1980)

Founded in 1980, Ambrose Alli University (AAU) in Ekpoma, Edo State, stands as one of the oldest and most respected universities in Nigeria. It is named after the former Governor of the defunct Bendel State, Ambrose Folorunso Alli. The university has a rich academic heritage and is known for its contribution to various fields of study, including education, social sciences, and the arts.

6. Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University, Uli: (2000)

Named after the iconic Nigerian leader Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu, this university was established in 2000. Located in Uli, Anambra State, it offers degree programs in a variety of disciplines, with a particular focus on engineering, technology, and social sciences. The university continues to be a center of excellence in southeastern Nigeria.

7. Bauchi State University, Gadau: (2011)

Bauchi State University was founded in 2011 and is located in Gadau, Bauchi State. The university is committed to providing high-quality education and fostering research in various fields such as the arts, sciences, engineering, and social sciences. It aims to contribute to the development of the region and Nigeria as a whole.

8. Benue State University, Makurdi: (1992)

Established in 1992, Benue State University is located in the capital city of Benue State, Makurdi. The university offers various undergraduate and postgraduate programs in fields ranging from law, medicine, and engineering to social sciences and education. It has a strong reputation for academic excellence and research.

9. Yobe State University, Damaturu: (2006)

Founded in 2006, Yobe State University is located in Damaturu, the state capital of Yobe State. The university provides a range of programs in various fields and is committed to producing well-rounded graduates capable of contributing to the development of the region and nation.

10. Cross River State University of Technology, Calabar: (2004)

Established in 2004, the Cross River State University of Technology (CRUTECH) is located in Calabar, Cross River State. As the name suggests, it is primarily focused on technological and scientific education, with strong emphasis on engineering, computer science, and applied sciences.

11. Delta State University, Abraka: (1992)

Founded in 1992, Delta State University (DELSU) in Abraka, Delta State, has become a major educational institution in southern Nigeria. It offers a wide array of programs, including arts, sciences, engineering, and law. DELSU is well known for its commitment to academic excellence and quality research.

12. Ebonyi State University, Abakaliki: (2000)

Located in Abakaliki, Ebonyi State, Ebonyi State University (EBSU) was established in 2000. The university offers a variety of undergraduate and postgraduate programs in fields such as medicine, agriculture, social sciences, and law. EBSU is committed to advancing the quality of education and research in the state.

13. Ekiti State University: (1982)

Ekiti State University, established in 1982, is located in Ado-Ekiti, Ekiti State. The university has a diverse student population and offers a wide range of programs in areas such as education, humanities, science, and social sciences. It has earned a reputation for producing competent graduates in various fields.

14. Enugu State University of Science and Technology, Enugu: (1982)

Established in 1982, Enugu State University of Science and Technology (ESUT) is one of the leading universities in Nigeria in the fields of science, engineering, and technology. Located in Enugu, the university has played a crucial role in advancing technological education in Nigeria.

15. Gombe State University, Gombe: (2004)

Founded in 2004, Gombe State University is located in Gombe, Gombe State. The university offers diverse programs in arts, sciences, social sciences, and business administration. It is known for its commitment to providing quality education and producing graduates who are well-prepared for the workforce.

16. Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida University, Lapai: (2005)

Established in 2005, Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida University in Lapai, Niger State, offers a wide range of academic programs in disciplines like science, social sciences, and humanities. The university is committed to enhancing its academic and research capabilities and contributing to the socio-economic development of the region.

17. Ignatius Ajuru University of Education, Rumuolumeni: (2010)

Named after Ignatius Ajuru, a renowned educational leader, the university was established in 2010. Located in Rumuolumeni, Rivers State, it focuses primarily on education programs, providing teacher training and offering degrees in fields such as education, arts, and social sciences.

18. Imo State University, Owerri: (1992)

Founded in 1992, Imo State University (IMSU) is located in Owerri, Imo State. The university offers a variety of programs, with special emphasis on law, business, health sciences, and social sciences. It has a reputation for producing competent graduates in both academic and professional fields.

19. Sule Lamido University, Kafin Hausa, Jigawa: (2013)

Sule Lamido University, established in 2013, is located in Kafin Hausa, Jigawa State. The university offers a range of undergraduate programs and strives to provide world-class education in areas such as agriculture, science, and technology.

20. Kaduna State University, Kaduna: (2004)

Founded in 2004, Kaduna State University is situated in Kaduna, the capital of Kaduna State. The university offers diverse academic programs in fields such as humanities, health sciences, engineering, and social sciences, and has made significant contributions to education in the northern region.

21. Kano University of Science & Technology, Wudil: (2000)

Kano University of Science & Technology (KUST) was founded in 2000 in Wudil, Kano State. As the name suggests, KUST focuses on science and technology programs, with an emphasis on engineering, computer science, and other technical fields. It plays a vital role in technological advancement in Nigeria.

22. Kebbi State University of Science and Technology, Aliero: (2006)

Founded in 2006, Kebbi State University of Science and Technology is located in Aliero, Kebbi State. It is dedicated to providing specialized education in science and technology, contributing to the region’s development in these areas.

23. Prince Abubakar Audu University, Anyigba: (1999)

Prince Abubakar Audu University, established in 1999, is located in Anyigba, Kogi State. It offers a range of programs in social sciences, arts, and education. The university is known for its strong academic foundation and community-oriented initiatives.

24. Kwara State University, Ilorin: (2009)

Established in 2009, Kwara State University (KWASU) is located in Ilorin, Kwara State. The university offers a diverse range of programs across several faculties, including business, science, humanities, and engineering. KWASU is committed to providing quality education and fostering innovation, particularly in areas such as entrepreneurship and research. The university’s focus on practical skills and leadership development ensures that graduates are well-equipped to succeed in both the national and global job markets.

25. Ladoke Akintola University of Technology, Ogbomoso: (1990)

Ladoke Akintola University of Technology (LAUTECH) was founded in 1990 and is located in Ogbomoso, Oyo State. The university is known for its strong emphasis on technological and engineering programs, providing students with a solid foundation in science and applied technology. LAUTECH is recognized for its high standard of academic excellence and for producing graduates who contribute to the advancement of technology and industry in Nigeria and beyond.

26. Ondo State University of Science and Technology, Okitipupa: (2008)

Founded in 2008, Ondo State University of Science and Technology (OSUSTECH) is located in Okitipupa, Ondo State. OSUSTECH is focused on providing quality education in science, technology, engineering, and related fields. The university aims to produce graduates who are equipped with the skills and knowledge necessary to drive technological and scientific innovation in the region and the nation.

27. Rivers State University: (1979)

Rivers State University (RSU) was established in 1979 and is located in Port Harcourt, Rivers State. The university offers a wide array of programs in fields such as engineering, humanities, sciences, and social sciences. RSU is known for its research output and its contributions to the educational and socio-economic development of the Niger Delta region.

28. Olabisi Onabanjo University, Ago Iwoye: (1982)

Established in 1982, Olabisi Onabanjo University (OOU) is located in Ago Iwoye, Ogun State. The university offers a range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs in disciplines such as law, social sciences, humanities, and natural sciences. OOU is dedicated to fostering academic excellence and social responsibility in its students, preparing them for leadership roles in both public and private sectors.

29. Lagos State University, Ojo: (1983)

Lagos State University (LASU), founded in 1983, is located in Ojo, Lagos State. As one of Nigeria's largest and most prestigious public universities, LASU offers a broad spectrum of academic programs. The university is renowned for its faculties of business, law, and engineering, and its commitment to producing graduates who can make a significant impact in various sectors of the economy.

30. Niger Delta University, Yenagoa: (2000)

Established in 2000, Niger Delta University (NDU) is located in Yenagoa, Bayelsa State. The university offers a variety of programs in disciplines such as agriculture, engineering, social sciences, and environmental studies. NDU is committed to addressing the unique challenges faced by the Niger Delta region and preparing students to contribute to the sustainable development of the area.

31. Nasarawa State University, Keffi: (2002)

Nasarawa State University (NSUK) was founded in 2002 and is located in Keffi, Nasarawa State. The university offers a variety of undergraduate and postgraduate programs in fields such as science, humanities, social sciences, and education. NSUK is focused on providing high-quality education and fostering research in a wide range of disciplines, with an emphasis on community development and national progress.

32. Plateau State University, Bokkos: (2005)

Founded in 2005, Plateau State University is located in Bokkos, Plateau State. The university provides educational opportunities in fields such as agriculture, science, and social sciences. PSUB is dedicated to fostering academic excellence and promoting regional development through its diverse programs.

33. Tai Solarin University of Education, Ijebu Ode: (2005)

Tai Solarin University of Education (TASUED), located in Ijebu Ode, Ogun State, was established in 2005. The university specializes in teacher education, offering programs that train students to become highly skilled educators. TASUED is also involved in research, particularly in the field of education, with a focus on improving Nigeria's educational system.

34. Umar Musa Yar’Adua University, Katsina: (2006)

Umar Musa Yar'Adua University (UMYU), located in Katsina, was established in 2006. Named after the former President of Nigeria, Umar Musa Yar'Adua, the university offers a wide range of academic programs, including engineering, social sciences, health sciences, and education. UMYU is committed to providing high-quality education with a focus on research, innovation, and community development in the northern region of Nigeria.

35. Osun State University, Osogbo: (2006)

Osun State University (UNIOSUN) was established in 2006 and is located in Osogbo, Osun State. The university offers undergraduate and postgraduate programs in fields such as humanities, social sciences, engineering, health sciences, and law. UNIOSUN is known for its commitment to academic excellence, quality research, and the development of skills that prepare students for success in their professional lives.

36. Taraba State University, Jalingo: (2008)

Founded in 2008, Taraba State University (TSU) is located in Jalingo, Taraba State. The university offers diverse academic programs across various faculties, including science, engineering, education, and health sciences. TSU plays a vital role in the educational development of the northeastern region and aims to provide quality education that contributes to the sustainable growth of the region.

37. Sokoto State University: (2009)

Sokoto State University (SSU) was established in 2009 and is located in Sokoto, the capital city of Sokoto State. The university offers academic programs in arts, social sciences, natural sciences, and engineering, with a focus on providing a strong educational foundation. SSU is known for its research initiatives and is dedicated to improving the socio-economic conditions of the region through education.

38. Yusuf Maitama Sule University, Kano: (2012)

Yusuf Maitama Sule University, established in 2012 in Kano, is named after the late Nigerian statesman Yusuf Maitama Sule. The university offers programs in areas such as law, social sciences, humanities, and science. Known for its commitment to academic excellence, the university aims to produce graduates who are equipped with the necessary skills to contribute to the development of the nation.

39. First Technical University, Ibadan: (2012)

Founded in 2012, First Technical University (Tech-U) in Ibadan, Oyo State, is Nigeria’s first technical university. It offers specialized programs in engineering, technology, and applied sciences. The university aims to produce highly skilled professionals who will drive technological innovation and economic development. Its curriculum is tailored to meet the demands of modern industry and the digital economy.

40. Ondo State University of Medical Sciences: (2015)

Ondo State University of Medical Sciences (OSUMS), established in 2015, is located in Ondo State. The university specializes in medical and health sciences education, offering programs in medicine, nursing, pharmacy, and other health-related disciplines. OSUMS is dedicated to providing high-quality medical education and training healthcare professionals who will contribute to the advancement of healthcare services in Nigeria.

41. Edo State University, Uzairue: (2016)

Established in 2016, Edo State University is located in Uzairue, Edo State. The university offers a wide range of programs, including engineering, sciences, social sciences, and business. With a strong commitment to providing quality education, the university focuses on research and community service, playing a vital role in the educational development of Edo State.

42. Kingsley Ozumba Mbadiwe University, Ogboko, Imo State: (2016)

Kingsley Ozumba Mbadiwe University was established in 2016 in Ogboko, Imo State. The university is named after the renowned Nigerian statesman Kingsley Ozumba Mbadiwe. It offers programs in fields such as social sciences, humanities, science, and technology, with a focus on producing well-rounded graduates who can contribute to national development.

43. University of Africa, Toru Orua, Bayelsa State: (2016)

University of Africa (UAT), established in 2016, is located in Toru Orua, Bayelsa State. The university offers undergraduate and postgraduate programs in various fields, including engineering, sciences, and social sciences. UAT is dedicated to delivering quality education while promoting research and innovation that addresses the unique challenges of the Niger Delta region.

44. Bornu State University, Maiduguri: (2016)

Bornu State University, established in 2016, is located in Maiduguri, the capital of Borno State. The university offers a wide array of academic programs, focusing on areas such as social sciences, humanities, agriculture, and technology. Borno State University aims to promote academic excellence and contribute to the development of northern Nigeria.

45. Moshood Abiola University of Science and Technology, Abeokuta: (2017)

Founded in 2017, Moshood Abiola University of Science and Technology (MAUSTECH) is located in Abeokuta, Ogun State. The university is focused on offering programs in technology, engineering, and applied sciences. It is named after the late Moshood Abiola, a prominent Nigerian statesman, and aims to provide students with the technical skills required to thrive in an increasingly technology-driven world.

46. Gombe State University of Science and Technology: (2017)

Gombe State University of Science and Technology, established in 2017, is located in Gombe, Gombe State. The university specializes in science and technology-related programs, including engineering, computer science, and environmental science. It plays a crucial role in providing technical education and fostering research that addresses regional and national development needs.

47. Zamfara State University: (2018)

Founded in 2018, Zamfara State University is located in Talata Mafara, Zamfara State. The university offers a variety of academic programs in areas such as science, social sciences, humanities, and engineering. With a focus on quality education and research, the university aims to contribute to the development of the northwestern region of Nigeria.

48. Bayelsa Medical University: (2019)

Bayelsa Medical University, established in 2019, is located in Yenagoa, Bayelsa State. The university is specialized in medical education, offering degrees in medicine, surgery, nursing, and other health sciences. Its primary goal is to produce competent healthcare professionals who will contribute to the improvement of healthcare services in Nigeria and beyond.

49. University of Agriculture and Environmental Sciences, Umuagwo, Imo State: (2019)

Founded in 2019, University of Agriculture and Environmental Sciences is located in Umuagwo, Imo State. The university focuses on agricultural sciences, environmental studies, and related disciplines, with the aim of producing graduates who are well-equipped to address the challenges of food security, environmental sustainability, and rural development in Nigeria.

50. Confluence University of Science and Technology, Osara, Kogi: (2020)

Confluence University of Science and Technology (CUSTECH) was established in 2020 in Osara, Kogi State. The university specializes in science, engineering, and technology programs, with a vision to become a center of excellence in technological innovation and applied research. CUSTECH aims to play a pivotal role in advancing Nigeria’s technological development.

51. University of Delta, Agbor: (2021)

University of Delta, founded in 2021, is located in Agbor, Delta State. The university offers programs in diverse fields such as social sciences, humanities, engineering, and science. It is committed to delivering a high-quality education that prepares students for the global job market while contributing to the development of Delta State and Nigeria.

52. Delta University of Science and Technology, Ozoro: (2021)

Established in 2021, Delta University of Science and Technology (DUSTECH) is located in Ozoro, Delta State. The university focuses on providing education in science, engineering, and technology. DUSTECH aims to produce graduates who are well-equipped with the skills necessary to thrive in a rapidly evolving global economy.

53. Dennis Osadebe University, Asaba: (2021)

Dennis Osadebe University, founded in 2021, is located in Asaba, Delta State. The university offers programs in education, social sciences, humanities, and applied sciences. Named after the late Dennis Osadebe, a prominent Nigerian statesman, the university is committed to providing quality education and fostering community development.

54. Bamidele Olumilua University of Science and Technology, Ikere, Ekiti State: (2020)

Established in 2020, Bamidele Olumilua University of Science and Technology (BOUESTI) is located in Ikere, Ekiti State. The university specializes in science, technology, and engineering programs, with a focus on producing graduates who are ready to contribute to technological and scientific innovation in Nigeria and the wider world.

55. Lagos State University of Education, Ijanikin: (2021)

Lagos State University of Education (LASUED) was established in 2021 and is located in Ijanikin, Lagos State. The university is focused on producing highly skilled educators through its specialized programs in education, training students to become teachers who can contribute to the improvement of Nigeria's education sector.

56. Lagos State University of Science and Technology, Ikorodu: (2021)

Lagos State University of Science and Technology (LASUSTECH) was established in 2021 and is located in Ikorodu, Lagos State. This university specializes in science and technology programs, with a focus on fostering innovation and research in fields such as engineering, computer science, and applied sciences. LASUSTECH aims to produce graduates who can meet the demands of a technology-driven economy while contributing to the growth of the Lagos State economy.

57. Shehu Shagari University of Education, Sokoto: (2022)

Shehu Shagari University of Education (SSUED) was established in 2022 and is located in Sokoto, the capital of Sokoto State. The university focuses primarily on education-related programs and is named after Shehu Shagari, the former president of Nigeria. SSUED’s mission is to produce skilled and highly qualified educators who will positively impact the educational landscape of Nigeria, particularly in the northern region.

58. State University of Medical and Applied Sciences, Igbo-Eno, Enugu: (2022)

Founded in 2022, State University of Medical and Applied Sciences (SUMAS) is located in Igbo-Eno, Enugu State. This university specializes in medical sciences and applied health disciplines. SUMAS is committed to producing highly trained healthcare professionals capable of meeting the medical needs of Nigeria, particularly in the southeastern region. The university’s focus is on practical skills and knowledge that will contribute to the nation’s health sector.

59. University of Ilesa, Osun State: (2022)

University of Ilesa, established in 2022, is located in Ilesa, Osun State. The university offers programs in humanities, social sciences, natural sciences, and engineering. It aims to become a leading institution in Nigeria by focusing on research, innovation, and community development. University of Ilesa is committed to fostering academic excellence and ensuring that its graduates are well-prepared for the challenges of the modern workforce.

60. Emanuel Alayande University of Education, Oyo: (2022)

Founded in 2022, Emanuel Alayande University of Education (EAUED) is located in Oyo, Oyo State. This institution is focused on providing quality education programs, particularly for future educators. EAUED aims to enhance the quality of education in Nigeria by training highly skilled teachers who will contribute to the educational development of the country. The university's emphasis on research and teaching pedagogy makes it a key player in educational reforms in Nigeria.

61. Sa'adatu Rimi University of Education: (2023)

Sa'adatu Rimi University of Education, established in 2023, is located in Kano, Kano State. This university is dedicated to advancing education in Nigeria by producing highly skilled teachers and educational administrators. It offers a wide range of education-related programs, with a focus on teacher training and research aimed at improving the Nigerian education system.

62. Kogi State University, Kabba: (2023)

Kogi State University, established in 2023, is located in Kabba, Kogi State. The university offers a variety of academic programs, including those in the humanities, social sciences, natural sciences, and education. The goal of Kogi State University is to become a center of excellence in research, teaching, and community development. It aims to produce graduates who will contribute meaningfully to the socio-economic development of the region and the country.

63. AbdulKadir Kure University, Minna, Niger State: (2023)

AbdulKadir Kure University, founded in 2023, is located in Minna, Niger State. Named after the late former governor of Niger State, AbdulKadir Kure, the university aims to provide high-quality education in various fields, including social sciences, engineering, and agriculture. The university's mission is to produce graduates who will play significant roles in addressing the development needs of Niger State and Nigeria as a whole.

##Conclusion
These universities represent the broad spectrum of academic excellence found within Nigeria's higher education system. With a wide variety of programs ranging from the sciences and engineering to the humanities and social sciences, they cater to a diverse student body. The establishment of these universities over the years reflects Nigeria's growing commitment to improving access to quality education, fostering research, and addressing regional needs. Whether focused on technological innovation, societal development, or entrepreneurial leadership, these universities are vital contributors to Nigeria's future prosperity. Their sustained growth and academic rigor ensure that they remain key players in the country’s higher education system.