Choosing the Best Universities in Nigeria for law is like eating vegetables.
At first, there are other choices of sweet foods and junk, and eating vegetables is like a tough thing to do.
But when you consistently eat fruits and vegetables, you’d get healthier and win at the end of the day compared to others.
This is the same scenario as selecting a very good university to study law in Nigeria.
There are tons of Universities in Nigeria offering law, but there are a few selected and well-known for their educating prowess and standard of learning. These best universities in Nigeria for law may be difficult in getting admission, but careful planning will help you achieve it and in the long run, you’d be happier!
The quality of your post-graduation career depends heavily on the college you attend. Nigerian employers care so much about their employees’ education since certain universities there are not worth it. It’s for this reason that you should at the very least look into the best universities before making your final decision on where to attend college.
Previously, I wrote about the best medical schools to attend in Nigeria. In this Aspirant’s compass, I would be taking you to the best and cheapest universities in Nigeria to study law.
So, if you’re interested in studying law in Nigeria, these are the best universities in Nigeria for law.
Best Universities Offering Law in Nigeria
1. University of Lagos, Akoka (UNILAG)- Best universities in Nigeria for law
- Official website: https://unilag.edu.ng/
- Quota: 270
- Location: Lagos state.
The University of Lagos was founded in 1962 and is one of Nigeria’s top educational institutions. According to 4ICU in 2018, it is ranked the third best university in Nigeria.
Out of the millions of students who apply for admission each year, the UNILAG has an average intake of about 40,000 students. UNILAG is one of the most competitive and rigorous institutions when it comes to admission. Obviously, all this is because of the quality of learning and education it boasts of.
The University of Lagos (UNILAG) Law School is currently the best in Nigeria and boasts of a 270 graduating quota. Since the National University Commission gave the faculty full accreditation (NUC), they have been producing brilliant and competent lawyers in Nigeria. Almost all Nigerian lawyers agree that UNILAG is a great place to study law.
A good record of first-class law graduates were produced by the University of Lagos (UNILAG) in 2013. Thus, it was no longer just the best university, but also the most prestigious in the country.
If you want to go to the best law school in Nigeria, you should start with UNILAG. It also has, without a doubt, Nigeria’s best law faculty. Don’t forget to check the admission requirements for Law at UNILAG before applying.
2. Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU)
- Official website: https://oauife.edu.ng/
- Quota: 250
- Location: Osun state.
In the second place on this list of best universities in Nigeria for law is the Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU).
Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU) is one of Nigeria’s most prestigious law schools. When it was first founded in 1961, the university was known as the University of Ife. Obafemi Awolowo, one of Nigeria’s most prominent leaders, was eventually chosen as the name of the school.
OAU is a tough nut to crack because it is one of Nigeria’s most well-known institutions of higher learning. Only about 35,000 students are admitted to OAU each semester, despite the fact that thousands of students apply every year.
OAU’s law school is comparable to Harvard’s in terms of academic rigor. I’ve never seen a law school like this one before.
That this university is often the driving force behind international and national tournaments involving Nigerian and other African schools may surprise you.
In reality, OAU won the 2019 “All-university mooting competition” that just wrapped up.
3. University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN)
- Official website: https://www.unn.edu.ng/
- Quota: 220
- Location: Enugu state.
University of Nsukka’s motto is to restore the dignity of man and they’re right on track owing to their quality and standard of education.
UNN is one of the best universities in Nigeria for law. If you’re a Nigerian, you’ve probably heard of this university. It is Nigeria’s first and only indigenous university, with almost 44,000 students currently enrolled.
University of Nigeria (UNN) was the first Nigerian university to be modeled after the American educational system. This why the university is so highly regarded. According to Webometrics, UNN was voted the best university in Nigeria for the first time this year.
Even students outside Nigeria know about this institution. Excellent teaching standards, hardworking students, and at least five first-class students each year are hallmarks of UNN’s law school.
The institution has four campuses- Nsukka, Enugu, Old-site and Ituku-Ozalla. The Ituku-Ozalla is home to their teaching hospital which is well-known for treating even the most severed disease types in Nigeria.
As a law student in UNN, you’d stay in the Enugu campus. There’s an area crafted out specially for law students in UNEC. They’ve also got standard classrooms that attracts night-class readers due to how convenient it is for learning. Asides that, there’s the UNN moot court which is used for numerous judiciary activities.
If you’re serious about attending Nigeria’s greatest law school around the south-east, I strongly recommend that you also look into UNN. The following is a list of the university’s Faculty of Law departments:
- Legal Services for Business and Real Estate
- Department of International Law and Jurisprudence
- Departments of Law, both public and private.
4. University of Ibadan, Oyo state.
- Official website: https://www.ui.edu.ng/
- Quota: 150
- Location: Oyo state.
The fourth on our list of the best universities in Nigeria for law is the prestigious University of Ibadan which is located in Oyo state, south-western part of Nigeria.
This famous institution also known as UI is another great place to get a law education in Nigeria. UI is Nigeria’s first and best university. It was founded in 1948 as the University College Ibadan to educate and enlighten Nigerians during the colonial era.
And not just in law. UI is also Nigeria’s top and most esteemed university generally, according to a number of recent rankings.
In the same vein, the university’s law school is among the top in the country. UI consistently has the most first-class graduates from Nigerian Law School.
UI is well-known for its unwavering support of its students’ participation in virtually every type of competition. Students from the UI participate in virtually every legal competition in Nigeria. All of these factors influenced my decision to write about this university.
Don’t forget to check the admission requirements for UI if you really want to attend!
5. Ahmadu Bello University
- Official website: https://abu.edu.ng/
- Quota: 280
- Location: Kaduna state.
If you’re a student in Nigeria, chances are you’ve heard about ABU, Zaria. ABU is more popular in the North because it is the top university there. As a result, ABU is one of Nigeria’s top five universities overall.
Ahmadu Bello University, which was established in 1962, was renamed after Alhaji Sir Ahmadu Bello (the first premier of Northern Nigeria) when he died. Students in the North hold Ahmadu Bello in high regard, and as a result, many aspire to attend university under his tutelage.
Actually, ABU is in a good position. The Joint Admission and Matriculation Board (JAMB) ranks the university as one of the best in Nigeria (JAMB).
Law studies at ABU Zaria are among the best in Nigeria. If you reside in the Northern part of Nigeria, I definitely recommend you choose ABU to study law.
However, there is no rule that says the university can only accept students from the north. Students from all over Nigeria can also study law in this excellent institution.
Students from ABU represented Nigeria at the Sherman and Sterling International Round of the Philip C. Jessup competition in Washington, D.C., U.S.A. That was back in 2005, on the 7th of April. This is just an inkling showing proving that they are among the best.
6. University of Benin
- Official website: https://www.uniben.edu/
- Quota: 180
- Location: Benin
My Nigerian law students’ first choice has always been UNIBEN. Every year, the university receives a large number of applications for admission to the Faculty of Law. As a result, admission to UNIBEN is extremely competitive. UNIBEN may not admit you if you don’t put in the effort.
The Nigerian University Commission has recognized and certified the faculty of law at UNIBEN (NUC). Thousands of outstanding lawyers have come out of the faculty, and their names are well-known throughout Nigeria’s legal community.
Many of Nigeria’s most prominent lawyers, judges, and prosecutors received their formal education here. Former Lagos State Governor, Babatunde Raji Fashola, attended UNIBEN to study law. According to Iyom Josephine Anenih, UNIBEN is where she studied law.
If you wish to attend Nigeria’s greatest legal school, you should look into attending the University of Benin (UNIBEN).
7. University of Ilorin.
- Official website: https://www.unical.edu.ng/
- Quota: 170
- Location:
Another one on this list of best universities in Nigeria for law is the esteemed University of Ilorin (UNILORIN). If you’re looking to study law in Nigeria, UNILORIN is a wonderful option.
More first-class students from the Nigerian Law School are produced by UNILORIN than many other state and even federal universities in Nigeria, according to research findings
Ilorin, the capital of Nigeria’s Kwara State, was home to UNILORIN in 1975, while the country was under military rule. Despite the fact that it has only recently opened, the university is already regarded as one of Nigeria’s best.
In addition, according to Wikipedia, UNILORIN was formed to implement one of the educational objectives of the Third National Development Plan (NDP3), which was intended at increasing the number of Nigerians who could pursue university education and creating high-level workers.
As a law aspirant, you should consider UNILORIN if you want to attend one of Nigeria’s top law schools.
8. University of Calabar, Cross river state
- Official website:
- Quota: 170
- Location: Cross-river state
Law aspirants in Nigeria can’t go wrong with UNICAL; one of the best universities in Nigeria for law. Beyond my own research, I have friends who are now enrolled at the school’s law school, and I’m happy to report that they are doing exceptionally well academically.
The University of Calabar, is a federal university situated in Cross River state. It wasn’t until 1975 that UNICAL became a fully autonomous institution.
Students are encouraged to use their education to help those in need. This is clearly the message that the institution wants to get through to its pupils. The University of Calabar (UNICAL) is ensuring that students use their education to have a positive impact on their communities.
Studies show that the UNICAL Faculty of Law In the fall of 1980, the faculty welcomed its first class of approximately one hundred students and six faculty members. Two departments were the first to join the faculty (Department of Private Law and the Department of Public and International Law).
As of now, UNICAL’s law school is renowned around the globe. University students have represented Nigeria in numerous international contests across Africa and beyond.
This UNICAL Admission Requirements for Law should be checked out if you’re looking for a good law school to attend this year.
9. Lagos State University (LASU)
- Official website:
- Quota: 170
- Location:
I believe that LASU is the best state university in Nigeria to study law. Like the University of Calabar (UNICAL), Lagos state University (LASU) aims to produce students who will use their knowledge to benefit the community.
In 1983, Lagos State University (LASU) was established in Ojo, Lagos State, Nigeria. One of Nigeria’s best-known public institutions with 35,000 students currently enrolled.
LASU is home to one of Nigeria’s top law schools, according to recent research. Many national and international law competitions have seen the institution come away with honorable mentions for their work. Accordingly, students from Lagos State University have represented Nigeria in numerous international legal disputes.
LASU is without a doubt one of Nigeria’s top legal education institutions. Check out the admissions requirements for the LASU School of Law by visiting this page.
10. Enugu state university of science and technology (ESUT).
- Official website:
- Quota: 170
- Location:
ESUT which is located in Enugu town is widely regarded as one of the country’s best. Although it has been able to surpass many other Nigerian state universities in the Nigerian University Commission’s annual list of institutions, it now competes with federal government-owned colleges (NUC).
There was a law faculty at ESUT when it was founded in 1980, along with other professional degrees, such as business administration and engineering. It’s hard to find a better group of professors in Nigeria right now than what we have here. If there are law school competitions in the country, at least 7th place is guaranteed for students of ESUT.
Several of the pupils that represented Nigeria in an international tournament just last year were also students at the university at that time. This demonstrates that the university is currently one of Nigeria’s top for studying law. However, it is worth noting that Enugu State University of Science and Technology’s law school fees are among the most costly in the country. But I can assure you that it’s worth it.
11. Olabisi Onabanjo University (OOU)
- Official website: https://oouagoiwoye.edu.ng/
- Quota: 170
- Location: Ogun state.
The Olabisi Onabanjo University which is a state-run institution is located In Ago-Iwoye, Ogun State, Nigeria. As a tribute to Chief (Dr.) Olabisi Onabanjo, whose efforts as the then civilian governor of Ogun State were instrumental in establishing Olabisi Onabanjo University.
The institution was renamed Olabisi Onabanjo University on May 29, 2001. In the meantime, many students still use the original moniker for the university, referring to it as OSU.
If you are looking for a good state university to study Law in south-western Nigeria, then OOU is a great choice for you. The faculty of law is top-notch and they have tons of quality lecturers that attracts numerous aspirants each year.
12. Babcock University
- Official website: https://www.babcock.edu.ng/
- Quota: 100
- Location: Ilishan-Remo
Babcock University is also one of the best universities in Nigeria for law. The Seventh-day Adventist Church in Nigeria owns and operates Babcock University, a private Christian coeducational university in Nigeria.
This prestigious institution is located in Ilishan-Remo, a midway point between Ibadan and Lagos. The Ben Carson School of Medicine’s inaugural graduating class was held in 2017.
The university is regarded as one of Nigeria’s best private universities for students interested in law.
Full compilation of 55 Universities That Offer Law in Nigeria
The council of legal education and Nigerian Law School is the organization that is solely responsible for accrediting Universities that can offer law in Nigeria. Here is the full list of accredited and approved law universities and their quota in the country:
16 Federal Universities that offer law in Nigeria
- University of Lagos
- University of Nigeria, Nsukka
- Bayero university, Kano
- University of Benin
- Nnamdi Azikwe university
- University of Calabar
- University of Jos
- University of Ibadan
- University of Ilorin
- University of Uyo
- Usman dan fodio University
- University of Porthacourt
- University of Maiduguri
- Ahmadu Bello University
- University of Abuja
- Obafemi Awolowo University
20 State universities offering law in Nigeria
- Rivers state university
- Olabisi Onabanjo University
- Ebonyi state university
- Abia state university
- Adekunle Ajasin University
- Ekiti state university
- Delta state university
- Enugu state university of science and technology
- Kogi state university
- Osun state university
- Bikar Abba Ibrahim university
- Imo state university
- Bauchi state university
- Chukwuemeka Odimegwu Ojukwu university
- Lagos state university
- Benue state university
- Niger delta university
19 Private universities offering Law in Nigeria
- Igbinedion university
- Afe Babalola university
- Crescent university
- Babcock university
- Baze university
- American university of Nigeria
- Bowen university
- Benson Idahosa university
- Nigerian Turkish Nile university
- Joseph Ayo Babalola University
- Al-hikmah university
- Ajayi Crowther university
- Edwin Clark university
- Madonna university
- Elizade university
- Salem university
- Gregory university
- Edo university
Download the official list of accredited universities for law in Nigeria. You would also see their admission quotas and more information to get you started on your la school journey!
Factors to consider before choosing the best universities in Nigeria for law
Don’t merely apply to a university because your best friend is there.
Is it a mystery who does this? Don’t be surprised; many students make their college decisions primarily on the recommendations of their peers.
You, on the other hand, are exempt from this stage of the process because you are aspiring to become a Lawyer.
In Law school, what works for one person may not work for you. Second, schools have different entrance standards for such highly competitive programs.
Do you think it’s okay if you don’t make the decision based on recommendations from your social circle? What if your friends were there? That’s a good analogy, too! Even if your parents think you should go to a particular university. Take your time and think things through before diving in.
The following are the most critical considerations to make before applying to any Nigerian university.
1. Merit-based admission opportunities
You may begin to notice how lovely the buildings in your preferred school are, or how conducive the atmosphere is.
But how are you going to take use of that if you don’t have access?
That gets us to our first consideration, which is whether or not you’ll be accepted into law school in Nigeria.
The first thing you should do before choosing the best universities in Nigeria for law is look up the various cutoff marks for law. Get to know which one is the high and lower than others.
In order for a student to be considered for admission, he or she must score above the school’s merit cut-off point.
Students’ academic performance is all that matters in determining the merit cut off, and not factors such as ELDs or catchment areas.
So, if you’re trying to decide which law university is best for you, here’s what you should do: For that university, check the prior merit cut off scores and gauge how hard you need to prepare in scoring high in JAMB.
Here are some of the Universities in Nigeria and their previous cut off mark for Law:
| Universities | Previous merit cut off marks |
| UNN | 296.5 |
| UNILAG | 76.5 |
| OAU | 67.8 |
| UNIZIK | 77.1 |
| UNIBEN | 76 |
| UNIBADAN | 65.37 |
2. Admission by catchment areas
If you’re looking for a good institution to study law, you should look at the ones in your state’s geographic region.
Here’s the reason;
A majority of Nigerian universities employ three admission criteria: merit, catchment, and educationally less developed states.
When it comes to admission prospects, students from certain catchment areas are prioritized over those from other states in the region.
To illustrate, let’s take a look at the University of Nigeria first. Abia state is one of its main catchment areas. Now, how does this work?
Because the cutoff points are lower in Abia, your chances of being admitted are higher. When it comes to aspirants from other states, it’s going to be a lot harder! Do you see the point?
However, this isn’t the most critical things to consider. Despite the fact that you can undoubtedly get into a university based on your academic merit, I recommend that you choose institutions that are located in your state as one of their catchment areas.
A list of the states in Nigeria and the universities in their respective catchment areas is provided here.
3. NUC Accreditation
Isn’t it true that Nigeria is home to a whopping 300+ educational institutions? Does your institution of choice have accreditation for the law?
You should consider the Nigerian Universities Accreditation before deciding on which school to study law.
As a law aspirant, you should be certain that a particular university is accredited for Law undergraduate studies before enrolling in classes.
For example, a student applying for law school at Covenant University, a private institution that is not accredited for law education, is definitely on the wrong track. This is because covenant university is not accredited for law.
4. School fees for Law in Nigeria
Another factor to take into account before selecting a law school in Nigeria is the financial demands of the university.
The cost of attending a Nigerian university varies from one institution to the next in terms of tuition. As a result, it is imperative that you carefully evaluate your options based on your budget.
How much money are you able to put aside for your law education? Is it possible for you to attend a private law school? Do you prefer to attend a public university, or do you think private institutions are better?
The choice is entirely up to you and is dependent completely on your financial resources.
Find out how much the tuition at each of the schools you’re considering is going to cost you, and then make an informed decision about where to apply. Find out if there are any expenses that aren’t included in the tuition.
We’ve compiled a list of helpful resources on law school tuition. Here’s a basic rundown of Nigerian universities offering law and tuition costs.
- Federal universities: 40,000 -100,000 Naira
- State universities: 150,000 – 500,000
- Private: 1,000,000 – 5,000,000
5. Environment
Look at this situation…
There are no cheap lodging options at the University of Lagos, thus students end up spending more money finding a place to stay outside of the university.
However, because the University of Nigeria, Nsukka campus is located within Nsukka village, accommodations there are considerably less expensive.
Which school would you most likely choose if you wanted to live away from campus but don’t have a large accommodation budget? Absolutely UNN!
The argument is that before choosing a university to attend, you should think about the culture and environment of the institution.
Even if it doesn’t seem important but your well-being is influenced by the people you interact with on campus.
Water is a big issue for students in the state of Enugu, such as at the University of Nigeria, Enugu and other schools in the area.
A gallon of water can cost as much as 80 Naira in some regions, according to a recent research. That’s a lot for students to handle on a daily basis.
However, you can avoid this by heading for the best universities in Nigeria for law which have enough water everywhere.
But note; this scenario is for Enugu state alone. A state’s challenges and peculiarities may be different in other states.
A state with a wide range of religious and cultural traditions might be an exciting place to attend school. Afterward, you can think about the culture of the area surrounding your prospective university.
What to do next: Investigate the school of your choice. Is the lodging and surroundings adequate for your needs and preferences? Find out what’s going on.
Final words on the Best Universities in Nigeria for Law
Becoming a Lawyer is a satisfactory occupation. You get to defend the laws of the country and cast decisions based on the constitution. However, getting into a law school may be a hard nut to crack.
In this article, I have listed the best universities for law in Nigeria. You have also learned factors to consider before choosing a law school in Nigeria. Now go ahead and make an informed choice!
