Studying Medicine and Surgery (MBBS) in Nigeria is one of the most prestigious academic pursuits, and the competition for admission into medical schools is intense. Choosing the right university is crucial to your training and career. This article ranks the best universities for medicine in Nigeria 2026 based on academic standards, accreditation, facilities and graduate outcomes.
1. University of Ibadan (UI) — College of Medicine
The University of Ibadan College of Medicine is widely regarded as Nigeria’s premier medical school. Established in 1948, it trains some of Nigeria’s most accomplished doctors and medical researchers. UI Medicine requires a JAMB score of 280+ and has consistently maintained accreditation by the Medical and Dental Council of Nigeria (MDCN). The college has state-of-the-art teaching hospitals and strong postgraduate research programmes.
2. University of Lagos (UNILAG) — College of Medicine
UNILAG College of Medicine is affiliated with the Lagos University Teaching Hospital (LUTH), one of Nigeria’s largest and best-equipped teaching hospitals. Candidates need a JAMB score of 260+ and strong O’Level results in Biology, Chemistry, Physics and Mathematics. UNILAG produces a high number of doctors who go on to specialize in the US, UK and Canada.
3. Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU) — College of Health Sciences
OAU’s College of Health Sciences in Ile-Ife is affiliated with the Obafemi Awolowo University Teaching Hospitals Complex (OAUTHC). It is consistently ranked among the best medical schools in Nigeria. The school emphasizes community medicine and public health alongside clinical training. Minimum JAMB requirement is 260+.
4. Ahmadu Bello University (ABU) — College of Medicine
ABU Zaria’s College of Medicine serves Northern Nigeria with a teaching hospital that handles thousands of patients daily. ABU Medicine is accredited by MDCN and produces doctors who serve across the country. JAMB requirement is 240+. The school is particularly strong in Surgery and Paediatrics.
5. University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN) — College of Medicine
UNN College of Medicine at the Enugu Campus is one of the oldest in the South-East. Affiliated with University of Nigeria Teaching Hospital (UNTH) in Ituku-Ozalla, the school provides quality clinical experience. Minimum JAMB score is 240+. UNN is known for its strong academic environment and competitive admission process.
6. Bayero University Kano (BUK) — Faculty of Clinical Sciences
Bayero University Kano offers MBBS through its Faculty of Clinical Sciences, affiliated with Aminu Kano Teaching Hospital (AKTH). BUK Medicine is a strong option for candidates from Northern Nigeria. JAMB requirement is 230+.
7. Nnamdi Azikiwe University (NAU) — College of Health Sciences
NAU’s College of Health Sciences at the Nnewi Campus is affiliated with Nnamdi Azikiwe University Teaching Hospital. The school offers MBBS and has grown rapidly in academic infrastructure in recent years. JAMB minimum is 230+.
8. Covenant University
Covenant University recently gained approval to offer Medicine after years of building world-class facilities. As a private university, school fees are significantly higher but the campus infrastructure is exceptional. JAMB requirement is 240+.
9. Babcock University — Benjamin Carson School of Medicine
Named after the legendary neurosurgeon Dr. Ben Carson, Babcock University’s medical school is a private institution in Ilishan-Remo, Ogun State. It is accredited and offers MBBS with modern facilities. JAMB minimum is 220+. School fees are higher than federal institutions.
10. University of Benin (UNIBEN) — College of Medical Sciences
UNIBEN’s College of Medical Sciences is affiliated with the University of Benin Teaching Hospital (UBTH). It offers a well-structured MBBS programme and has produced leading medical professionals. JAMB cut off is 240+.
MBBS Admission Requirements in Nigeria
To gain admission into any medical school in Nigeria, you generally need: a JAMB UTME score of at least 220 (240+ for top schools), five O’Level credit passes including English, Mathematics, Biology, Chemistry and Physics (in one sitting for most top schools), a strong post-UTME score, and successful completion of a medical entrance interview at some institutions. The MBBS programme runs for six years in Nigeria, followed by a one-year housemanship.
