Best Schools of Nursing in Lagos Abuja Ogun Oyo Rivers and Enugu: Nursing is one of the most respected and competitive health courses in Nigeria. Every year, thousands of students search for the best Schools of Nursing, Colleges of Nursing and Nursing Science programmes in states like Lagos, Abuja, Ogun, Oyo, Rivers and Enugu.
But before choosing a nursing school, you must understand something very important: the best nursing school is not only the one with a popular name. A good nursing school should be approved, properly regulated, accessible, affordable, well-equipped and suitable for your admission route.
Some nursing institutions offer Basic Nursing. Some offer Basic Midwifery. Some now offer ND/HND Nursing. Some universities offer Nursing Science. Because of this, students should not apply blindly.
This guide explains some of the best nursing school options in Lagos, Abuja, Ogun, Oyo, Rivers and Enugu, how to choose the right school, admission requirements, JAMB requirements, WAEC/NECO subjects and important mistakes to avoid.
Important Note Before Choosing Any School of Nursing
Before applying to any School of Nursing or College of Nursing in Nigeria, always confirm the current approval status from the Nursing and Midwifery Council of Nigeria, also known as NMCN.
Approval status, admission quota, programme type and admission requirements can change. A school may be approved for one programme but not another.
So, before paying for any nursing form, confirm:
- The school is approved
- The programme is approved
- The admission form is real
- The payment portal is official
- The school accepts your O’level result
- JAMB is required or not required
- The school has released official admission instructions
What Makes a School of Nursing One of the Best?
A good School or College of Nursing should have strong qualities that support proper training.
Here are things to check before choosing a nursing school:
1. Approval Status
The school should be approved by the relevant nursing authority. This is the first thing to confirm before applying.
2. Programme Type
Check whether the school offers:
- Basic Nursing
- Basic Midwifery
- ND Nursing
- HND Nursing
- Nursing Science
- Post-Basic Nursing
- Community Nursing
- Community Midwifery
Do not confuse one programme with another.
3. Training Facilities
A good nursing school should have classrooms, laboratories, clinical training opportunities and access to hospitals for practical experience.
4. Admission Transparency
The school should have a clear official portal, admission advert, entrance examination process and screening instructions.
5. School Fees
Choose a school you can afford. Some federal or state institutions may be cheaper than private options, while private schools may have different payment structures.
6. Location
Location matters because nursing training can be demanding. You may want a school close to home or in a city with good hospital exposure.
7. JAMB Requirement
Some nursing programmes require JAMB, especially ND/HND Nursing and university Nursing Science. Some Basic Nursing programmes may conduct entrance examination, depending on the school.
Best Schools of Nursing in Lagos State
Lagos is one of the most popular states for nursing education in Nigeria. It has teaching hospitals, state health institutions, private health facilities and strong clinical exposure.
Because Lagos is competitive, candidates should prepare well before applying.
1. Lagos State College of Nursing, Igando
Lagos State College of Nursing is one of the popular nursing institutions in Lagos. It is located in Igando and is connected with Lagos State health training.
The college is often considered by candidates who want a state-owned nursing institution in Lagos.
Why students consider it:
- Located in Lagos State
- Known among nursing applicants
- Offers professional nursing training routes
- Good option for students who want Lagos-based nursing education
- Linked with state health training structure
Before applying, check the official admission notice for the current programme, admission requirement and whether JAMB is required.
Also Read: List of Approved Schools and Colleges of Nursing in Nigeria 2026/2027
2. School of Nursing, Lagos University Teaching Hospital, LUTH
The School of Nursing connected with Lagos University Teaching Hospital, Idi-Araba, is another well-known nursing option in Lagos.
LUTH is a major teaching hospital, which makes it attractive to students who want strong hospital-based training exposure.
Why students consider it:
- Linked to a major teaching hospital
- Located in Lagos
- Strong healthcare environment
- Popular among nursing applicants
- Good clinical exposure opportunity
Candidates should confirm the current programme status, admission form, entry requirement and approval details before applying.
3. School of Nursing, Lagos State University Teaching Hospital, LASUTH
Lagos State University Teaching Hospital is another major health institution in Lagos. Nursing-related training connected with LASUTH can attract many applicants because of the hospital’s reputation.
Why students consider it:
- Connected to a teaching hospital
- Located in Ikeja, Lagos
- State health institution environment
- Good option for Lagos-based applicants
- Clinical training exposure
Always check the official portal and admission notice before paying for any form.
4. Nursing Science Programmes in Lagos Universities
Some universities in or around Lagos may offer Nursing Science or related health science programmes, depending on approval status.
University Nursing Science is different from Basic School of Nursing because it is a degree programme and normally requires JAMB.
Candidates interested in university Nursing Science should check:
- JAMB subject combination
- University cut-off mark
- Post-UTME requirements
- O’level requirements
- Programme approval status
- Admission through JAMB CAPS
Best Schools of Nursing in Abuja, FCT
Abuja is another popular location for nursing applicants because it is the Federal Capital Territory and has major health institutions.
1. School of Nursing, Gwagwalada, Abuja
School of Nursing, Gwagwalada is one of the nursing institutions commonly considered by students in the FCT.
Why students consider it:
- Located in Abuja
- Popular among nursing applicants
- Accessible to candidates in FCT and nearby states
- Good option for students seeking nursing education in the capital
- May have strong clinical exposure depending on programme structure
Applicants should confirm current admission requirements from the official school or FCT health training authority.
2. School of Midwifery, Gwagwalada, Abuja
For candidates interested in Midwifery, the School of Midwifery, Gwagwalada is another important option in the FCT.
Midwifery is different from General Nursing, so candidates must understand the programme before applying.
Why students consider it:
- Located in Abuja
- Suitable for candidates interested in midwifery
- Recognized among FCT health training options
- Good for students interested in maternal and child health
Before applying, check whether the admission is for Basic Midwifery, Post-Basic Midwifery or another programme.
3. Nursing-Related Programmes in Abuja Health Institutions
Abuja has several major health institutions, including federal and private hospitals. Some may offer approved nursing-related programmes or post-basic training.
Candidates should always confirm approval status and admission requirements before applying.
Best Schools of Nursing in Ogun State
Ogun State is close to Lagos and has several education and health institutions. It is a good option for students who want nursing education in the South-West but may not want the pressure of Lagos.
1. Ogun State College of Nursing Sciences
Ogun State College of Nursing Sciences is one of the major nursing education options in Ogun State.
Why students consider it:
- State-owned nursing education option
- Located in Ogun State
- May offer different nursing and midwifery programmes
- Good option for students in Ogun and nearby states
- Can be less stressful than Lagos for some candidates
Candidates should check the official Ogun State nursing admission portal or announcement before applying.
2. School of Nursing, Abeokuta
Abeokuta is one of the popular locations for nursing education in Ogun State.
Why students consider it:
- Located in the state capital area
- Accessible to many South-West candidates
- Popular among nursing applicants
- Good state-based nursing option
Before applying, confirm whether the programme is Basic Nursing, ND/HND Nursing, Midwifery or another approved route.
3. Babcock University Nursing Science
Babcock University, located in Ogun State, is a private university known for health-related programmes, including Nursing Science where approved and available.
University Nursing Science at a private university is different from a traditional School of Nursing. It usually requires JAMB and university admission screening.
Why students consider it:
- Private university environment
- Degree-based Nursing Science route
- Structured university learning
- Good option for candidates who can afford private university fees
- Located close to Lagos
Candidates should confirm current approval, fees and admission requirements before applying.
Best Schools of Nursing in Oyo State
Oyo State is one of the strongest education states in Nigeria. Ibadan, in particular, has major health and university institutions.
1. Oyo State College of Nursing Sciences
Oyo State College of Nursing Sciences is a key nursing education option for students in Oyo State.
Why students consider it:
- State-owned nursing option
- Located in a major education state
- Popular among South-West nursing applicants
- Offers nursing and midwifery-related routes depending on programme approval
- Good option for students who want state nursing education
Always check the official admission portal for current form, JAMB requirement and programme type.
2. School of Nursing, University College Hospital, Ibadan
University College Hospital, Ibadan, is one of Nigeria’s most famous teaching hospitals. Nursing-related training connected with UCH is highly attractive to many students.
Why students consider it:
- Connected to a major teaching hospital
- Located in Ibadan
- Strong clinical environment
- Popular among health science applicants
- Recognized by many Nigerian students
Because of its popularity, admission may be competitive. Candidates should prepare well and confirm current admission requirements.
3. University of Ibadan Nursing Science
The University of Ibadan is one of Nigeria’s leading universities. Nursing Science in a university setting is a degree route and usually requires JAMB.
Why students consider it:
- Prestigious university environment
- Degree-based Nursing Science route
- Strong academic reputation
- Good option for candidates with high JAMB and post-UTME performance
- Located in Ibadan
Candidates should check JAMB subject combination, cut-off mark, post-UTME and departmental requirements.
4. Lead City University Nursing Science
Lead City University in Ibadan may be considered by candidates looking for private university Nursing Science options where approved and available.
Why students consider it:
- Private university option
- Located in Ibadan
- Degree-based route
- May be suitable for candidates who want private university admission
- Alternative to public university competition
Applicants should confirm approval status, school fees and admission requirements.
Best Schools of Nursing in Rivers State
Rivers State is one of the major states in the South-South region. Port Harcourt has teaching hospitals, private hospitals and health education opportunities.
1. Rivers State College of Nursing Sciences
Rivers State College of Nursing Sciences is a major nursing education option in Rivers State.
Why students consider it:
- State-owned nursing institution
- Located in Rivers State
- Popular among South-South nursing applicants
- May offer different nursing and midwifery programmes
- Good option for candidates in Rivers and nearby states
Before applying, confirm the current admission route and programme requirements.
2. School of Nursing, Port Harcourt
School of Nursing, Port Harcourt is another nursing option associated with the state’s health training system.
Why students consider it:
- Located in Port Harcourt
- Known among nursing applicants in the South-South
- Offers access to a major urban healthcare environment
- Good option for candidates in Rivers State
Always verify the official admission form and school approval before applying.
3. University of Port Harcourt Nursing Science
University of Port Harcourt may be an option for candidates interested in university Nursing Science where approved and available.
Why students consider it:
- Federal university environment
- Degree-based Nursing Science route
- Located in Port Harcourt
- Good option for candidates with strong JAMB scores
- Competitive public university route
Candidates should confirm departmental cut-off mark, O’level requirements and programme approval.
4. PAMO University of Medical Sciences Nursing Science
PAMO University of Medical Sciences in Rivers State is a private medical university that may offer Nursing Science where approved.
Why students consider it:
- Medical science-focused private university
- Located in Port Harcourt
- Degree-based Nursing route
- Private university environment
- Option for candidates seeking health-focused university training
Applicants should check school fees, JAMB requirement and current approval status.
Best Schools of Nursing in Enugu State
Enugu State is one of the major education and health training centres in the South-East. It has teaching hospitals and university-based nursing options.
1. School of Nursing, University of Nigeria Teaching Hospital, Enugu
The School of Nursing connected with University of Nigeria Teaching Hospital, Enugu, is one of the popular nursing options in the South-East.
Why students consider it:
- Linked to a major teaching hospital
- Located in Enugu
- Strong healthcare training environment
- Popular among South-East nursing applicants
- Good clinical exposure opportunity
Candidates should check the official UNTH or school portal for current admission status and requirements.
2. Enugu State College of Nursing Sciences
Enugu State College of Nursing Sciences is another important nursing education option in the state.
Why students consider it:
- State-owned nursing education option
- Located in Enugu State
- May offer nursing and midwifery programmes
- Good option for South-East candidates
- Popular among applicants seeking state nursing admission
Confirm current programme approval and admission route before applying.
3. School of Nursing, Enugu State University Teaching Hospital, Parklane
Parklane is another known health institution in Enugu State. Nursing-related training connected with the teaching hospital can attract candidates interested in state teaching hospital training.
Why students consider it:
- Connected with a teaching hospital environment
- Located in Enugu
- Popular among nursing applicants
- State health institution exposure
Before applying, confirm the current programme and admission form from official sources.
4. University of Nigeria Nursing Science
University of Nigeria offers Nursing Science where approved and available through the university route.
Why students consider it:
- Federal university route
- Degree-based Nursing Science
- Strong academic reputation
- Good option for candidates with strong scores
- South-East location
Candidates should check JAMB, post-UTME, O’level and departmental cut-off requirements.
Admission Requirements for Schools of Nursing
Although requirements may vary by school and programme, Nursing candidates usually need five O’level credit passes in:
- English Language
- Mathematics
- Biology
- Chemistry
- Physics
These credits are usually required in WAEC, NECO, NABTEB or approved equivalent examinations, depending on the school.
Many schools accept not more than two sittings, but candidates should confirm from the specific institution.
Does School of Nursing Require JAMB?
It depends on the programme.
JAMB is usually required for:
- University Nursing Science
- ND Nursing
- HND Nursing
- Colleges of Nursing running ND/HND programmes
JAMB may not be required for some Basic Nursing or Basic Midwifery programmes if the school uses entrance examination.
Always check the official admission advert.
JAMB Subject Combination for Nursing
The common JAMB subject combination for Nursing is:
- English Language
- Biology
- Chemistry
- Physics
English Language is compulsory.
Candidates should confirm from the JAMB brochure and their preferred school before registration.
Can I Study Nursing Without JAMB?
Yes, it may be possible through some Basic Nursing or Basic Midwifery programmes that use entrance examination.
However, if you are applying for Nursing Science in a university or ND/HND Nursing in a College of Nursing, JAMB is usually required.
Can I Use Two Sittings for Nursing?
Many nursing institutions accept two sittings, but this depends on the school and programme.
Two sittings means combining two O’level results, such as WAEC and NECO, to meet the required five credits.
Before applying, confirm if your preferred school accepts two sittings.
How to Choose the Best Nursing School for You
Do not choose a nursing school only because it is popular. Choose based on your personal situation.
Ask yourself:
- Is the school approved?
- Is the programme approved?
- Can I afford the fees?
- Does the school require JAMB?
- Do I have the correct O’level subjects?
- Is the school close to me?
- Is the course Basic Nursing, ND/HND Nursing or Nursing Science?
- Does the school have good clinical training exposure?
- Is the application portal official?
- Is admission currently open?
The best nursing school for one student may not be the best for another student.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Are the Best Schools of Nursing in Lagos?
Popular options to check in Lagos include Lagos State College of Nursing, LUTH-related nursing training and LASUTH-related nursing training. Always confirm current approval and admission requirements.
What Are the Best Schools of Nursing in Abuja?
Popular options to check in Abuja include School of Nursing Gwagwalada, School of Midwifery Gwagwalada and approved FCT nursing-related programmes.
What Are the Best Schools of Nursing in Ogun?
Popular options include Ogun State College of Nursing Sciences, School of Nursing Abeokuta and Babcock University Nursing Science.
What Are the Best Schools of Nursing in Oyo?
Popular options include Oyo State College of Nursing Sciences, UCH Ibadan School of Nursing, University of Ibadan Nursing Science and Lead City University Nursing Science.
What Are the Best Schools of Nursing in Rivers?
Popular options include Rivers State College of Nursing Sciences, School of Nursing Port Harcourt, University of Port Harcourt Nursing Science and PAMO University of Medical Sciences.
What Are the Best Schools of Nursing in Enugu?
Popular options include UNTH School of Nursing, Enugu State College of Nursing Sciences, Parklane nursing-related training and University of Nigeria Nursing Science.
Is JAMB Required for School of Nursing?
JAMB is required for university Nursing Science and usually for ND/HND Nursing. Some Basic Nursing programmes may use entrance examination.
What Subjects Are Needed for Nursing?
The major O’level subjects are English Language, Mathematics, Biology, Chemistry and Physics.
Can I Use Two Sittings for Nursing?
Many schools accept two sittings, but candidates should confirm from their preferred institution.
How Do I Know If a Nursing School Is Approved?
Check the latest NMCN approved-schools list, confirm the programme type, and verify from the school’s official portal.
Conclusion
Lagos, Abuja, Ogun, Oyo, Rivers and Enugu all have strong nursing education options for students who want to become professional nurses.
However, the best school for you depends on the programme you want, your O’level result, JAMB score, budget, location and admission route.
Before applying, always confirm that the school and programme are approved, check whether JAMB is required, use only official portals, and avoid fake admission agents.
Nursing is competitive, but choosing the right school and following the correct admission process can improve your chances.
