Nigeria Nigeria’s Best Medical Schools for 2025: UI, UNILAG, ABU Lead the Pack

As Nigeria battles a growing exodus of healthcare professionals, the 2025 Times Higher Education (THE) ranking offers guidance on where to study medicine and health sciences locally. Despite doctor shortages - 58,000 licensed renewals out of over 130,000 registered - these universities are producing graduates who remain in high demand globally.

1. University of Ibadan (UI)
   • Global rank: 401–500
   • Nigeria’s oldest and top-ranked for medicine
   • Student-to-staff ratio: 17.9
   • Female-male ratio: 51:49
2. University of Lagos (UNILAG)
   • Global rank: 401–500
   • Known for industry links and gender balance
   • Student-to-staff ratio: 24.4
3. Ahmadu Bello University (ABU), Zaria
   • Global rank: 601–800
   • Renowned for its research and broad health curriculum
   • Student-to-staff ratio: 16.6
4. University of Benin (UNIBEN)
   • Global rank: 601–800
   • Balanced gender ratio and solid medical training
5. Bayero University, Kano (BUK)
   • Global rank: 801–1000
   • Rising profile in medical education
   • Student-to-staff ratio: 22.3
6. Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU)
   • Global rank: 801–1000
   • Strong student population with global ambition
7. University of Ilorin (UNILORIN)
   • Global rank: 801–1000
   • One of Nigeria’s largest campuses
   • Gender ratio: 48:52
8. University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN)
   • Global rank: 801–1000
   • Noted for low student-teacher ratio and research depth
9. Usmanu Danfodiyo University, Sokoto (UDUS)
   • Global rank: 801–1000
   • Specialises in tropical medicine and public health
10. Ladoke Akintola University of Technology (LAUTECH)

With Nigerian doctors migrating at alarming rates, local medical schools are stepping up to fill the talent gap, while offering qualifications recognised around the world. For young Nigerians eyeing a resilient, respected career path, these institutions are worth considering.