Studying Medicine and Surgery in Nigeria is a big dream for many young people. Medicine is one of the most respected and competitive courses in the country. Every year, thousands of students apply to different universities hoping to become doctors. But not all universities offer the same quality of education.
If you want to become a great doctor, it is very important to choose the best university to study Medicine and Surgery in Nigeria. In this blog post, we will share a detailed list of top universities that are known for their excellent medical programs. We will also talk about the things that make these schools special and why you should consider them.
Let’s begin.
Why Study Medicine and Surgery in Nigeria?
Before we list the best universities, let’s quickly talk about why studying medicine in Nigeria is a good idea.
- Affordable Tuition Fees: Compared to studying abroad, Nigerian universities are much more affordable.
- High Demand for Doctors: Nigeria needs more qualified doctors. Studying here means you have a high chance of getting a job after graduation.
- Top Medical Schools: Some Nigerian universities are highly respected for their medical training and research.
Now, let’s look at the best schools.
Top 10 Best Universities To Study Medicine And Surgery In Nigeria
Here are the best universities offering Medicine and Surgery in Nigeria, based on academic quality, facilities, history, and reputation:
1. University of Ibadan (UI)
- Location: Ibadan, Oyo State
- Established: 1948
- College of Medicine: One of the oldest and most respected in Nigeria
Why UI?
UI is the first university in Nigeria and has a strong College of Medicine. The university has great medical facilities, experienced lecturers, and partnerships with top hospitals like the University College Hospital (UCH). Many of Nigeria’s top doctors studied here.
2. Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU)
- Location: Ile-Ife, Osun State
- Established: 1961
Why OAU?
OAU has one of the best teaching hospitals in the country — the Obafemi Awolowo University Teaching Hospital Complex (OAUTHC). The Faculty of Clinical Sciences is known for producing top-class doctors.
3. University of Lagos (UNILAG)
- Location: Lagos State
- Established: 1962
Why UNILAG?
UNILAG has a reputable College of Medicine located in Idi-Araba, Lagos. The Lagos University Teaching Hospital (LUTH) provides hands-on clinical training. It’s one of the busiest and most advanced teaching hospitals in Nigeria.
4. Ahmadu Bello University (ABU)
- Location: Zaria, Kaduna State
- Established: 1962
Why ABU?
ABU’s Faculty of Medicine is well-respected in Northern Nigeria. The school has modern laboratories and strong clinical training through the Ahmadu Bello University Teaching Hospital (ABUTH).
5. University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN)
- Location: Enugu State
- Established: 1960
Why UNN?
UNN is known for academic excellence. The Faculty of Medical Sciences offers quality training and practical experience through its teaching hospital. The university is among the top choices in the eastern part of Nigeria.
6. University of Benin (UNIBEN)
- Location: Benin City, Edo State
- Established: 1970
Why UNIBEN?
UNIBEN’s College of Medical Sciences is highly ranked. The school offers solid clinical exposure, good hostel accommodation, and well-equipped laboratories. The University of Benin Teaching Hospital (UBTH) is a major health center in the South-South region.
7. Lagos State University (LASU)
- Location: Ojo, Lagos State
- Established: 1983
Why LASU?
LASU College of Medicine offers one of the best medical programs in Lagos. Though it’s a state university, it maintains a high standard and has access to good hospitals for practical learning.
8. Delta State University (DELSU)
- Location: Abraka, Delta State
- Established: 1992
Why DELSU?
DELSU’s Faculty of Basic Medical Sciences is well-equipped and provides quality education in medicine. The Delta State University Teaching Hospital (DELSUTH) also gives students enough practical training.
9. University of Ilorin (UNILORIN)
- Location: Ilorin, Kwara State
- Established: 1975
Why UNILORIN?
UNILORIN is known for being one of the most stable universities in Nigeria (few or no strikes). Its medical program is well-organized and offers a good balance between theory and practical training.
10. Babcock University
- Location: Ilishan-Remo, Ogun State
- Established: 1999
- Private University
Why Babcock?
Babcock University offers a private medical school with modern facilities and low student-to-lecturer ratio. If you can afford the tuition, Babcock is a great place to study Medicine and Surgery.
Other Good Universities Offering Medicine and Surgery
Apart from the top 10, there are other universities doing well in medicine:
- Nnamdi Azikiwe University (UNIZIK), Awka
- Benue State University, Makurdi
- University of Port Harcourt (UNIPORT)
- Olabisi Onabanjo University (OOU), Ogun
- Usmanu Danfodiyo University, Sokoto
- Madonna University, Elele (Private)
These schools also offer standard medical programs with good facilities and qualified lecturers.
General Admission Requirements for Medicine and Surgery in Nigeria
To gain admission into any of these universities to study medicine, you need to meet the following:
- SSCE Requirements: At least five credits in English, Mathematics, Biology, Chemistry, and Physics in one or two sittings.
- JAMB UTME: You must write and pass the JAMB exam with a high score (usually above 280).
- Post-UTME: Many universities conduct their own screening tests.
- Age: You must be at least 16 years old.
Things to Consider When Choosing a University for Medicine
When choosing where to study Medicine and Surgery in Nigeria, consider the following:
1. Accreditation
Make sure the school and its medical program are accredited by the Medical and Dental Council of Nigeria (MDCN).
2. Teaching Hospital
A good medical school must have a teaching hospital for practicals and clinical exposure.
3. Location and Accessibility
Consider if the school is in a region where you feel safe and comfortable.
4. Tuition and Fees
Federal universities are cheaper, while private universities like Babcock cost more.
5. Strike-Free Calendar
Some universities have fewer academic strikes (like UNILORIN), which means you can graduate on time.
In conclusion
Studying Medicine and Surgery in Nigeria is not easy, but it’s worth it. It takes a lot of hard work, focus, and determination. However, choosing the right university can make the journey smoother and more successful.
Whether you go for a federal, state, or private university, make sure the school has a strong reputation, good facilities, and the right environment for learning. This will help you become a qualified doctor who can make a difference in people’s lives.
We hope this guide on the best universities to study medicine and surgery in Nigeria helps you choose the right path. Remember, success in medicine starts with the right school!
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