Best Universities in Nigeria for Medicine & Pharmacy

Nigeria boasts several prestigious universities that offer top tier programs in Medicine and Pharmacy. These institutions stand out for their academic excellence, research output, facilities, and graduates’ employability.

University of Ibadan (UI)

As Nigeria’s oldest university, UI’s College of Medicine frequently ranks #1 in the country and among the top 400–500 worldwide. Its robust medical training environment, focused student to staff ratio, and strong reputation make it a top choice for aspirant doctors. In pharmacy, UI’s Faculty of Pharmacy is equally lauded for its rigorous curriculum and strong research orientation.

University of Lagos (UNILAG)

UNILAG consistently ranks among the top medical schools in Nigeria (globally in the 401–500 range). Known for its strategic location and strong clinical partnerships particularly with Lagos University Teaching Hospital (LUTH)—UNILAG provides rich practical exposure. Its pharmacy program also shines, benefiting from industry ties and exposure to leading pharmaceutical facilities in Lagos.

Ahmadu Bello University (ABU), Zaria

ABU is a highly respected name in Nigeria’s medical education, ranking within the 601–800 global bracket. It’s particularly known for its research strengths and broad healthcare curriculum. In pharmacy, ABU’s Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences offers strong academic training across key disciplines, backed by great lab facilities and hands on learning.

University of Benin (UNIBEN)

UNIBEN’s medical school is among Nigeria’s top, holding a global rank of 601–800. It stands out for its quality teaching, research output, and mid-range student-to-staff ratio. Its pharmacy program is well regarded as well, particularly for clinical pharmacy and research-driven training, fully accredited by the Pharmacy Council of Nigeria.

Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), Ile-Ife

OAU’s medical school enjoys high esteem, ranking in the 801–1000 global bracket   . Its College of Health Sciences, known for community based healthcare education, offers solid practical and academic training. On the pharmacy side, OAU is also a strong contender its curriculum combines theory with hands-on learning across areas like pharmacognosy and drug development.

University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN)

UNN is consistently ranked among the top medical schools in Nigeria, with global standing within the 801–1000 range

. The medical program is particularly praised for its favorable student-teacher ratio and research capacity. In pharmacy, UNN offers one of Nigeria’s most comprehensive and innovation-focused programs, emphasizing clinical and industrial pharmacy education   .

Final Thoughts

If you’re aiming for excellence in Medicine, UI and UNILAG are clear top choices for their reputation, research, and ranking. Meanwhile, ABU, UNIBEN, OAU, and UNN provide strong alternatives, especially for students who value specific specializations, geographic accessibility, or research interests.

In Pharmacy, UI, OAU, UNN, UNIBEN, and ABU lead in academic rigor and professional readiness. They also benefit from full accreditation by the Pharmacy Council of Nigeria, ensuring your degree holds credibility in practice.

Let me know if you’d like admissions tips or student experiences for any of these universities next