
When planning a career in law, the best university to study law in Nigeria is a choice that can define your future. There are many universities that offer the law course, so it’s not easy to make the best choice.
But others succeed due to academic excellence, renowned faculty, and the finest possible facilities. Regardless of whether your dream is to be a top legal professional or excel in the corporate law arena, selecting the right school is your key to success.
In this article, we walk you through the 15 best universities to study law in Nigeria in 2025. The institutions have a reputation for offering some of the nation’s most brilliant legal minds. From highly regarded federal schools with centuries of history to high-tech private colleges, there’s something for anyone.
Let’s talk about the best university to study law in Nigeria, why they are the best and why they can be the best destination for your legal studies.
Table of Contents
Is Law a Hard Course to Study?
This is one of the common questions in Nigeria. Law is a professional course, and therefore it is more difficult in getting the admission and studying it than other courses apart from medicine.
Learning Law is not just memorizing cases or provisions in the constitution. It takes more to learn law because the course typically involves more of critical, and deductive thinking which you cannot just wake up one morning and have the ability. Another assumption of why it is difficult to learn is the admission procedures of the course.
In most of the public universities, you have to score over 240 in Jamb UTME exams if you are going to have any chance of studying law in Nigeria. Based on these facts, it is possible to conclude that Law is not an easy course to study, whether in Nigeria or any other part of the world.
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How We Determined the Best University to Study Law in Nigeria in 2025
Below is how we went about making our list of the top university to pursue law in Nigeria:
- Accreditation: We checked each university’s status on accreditation of law. The universities listed on our list are accredited by great bodies like Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) and National Universities Commission (NUC).
- Experienced Lecturers: The quality of teaching matters a lot. We only chose universities that employed experienced lecturers and practicing lawyers as instructors.
- Modern Facilities: We chose institutions that possess well-stocked law libraries, moot courts, and other modern equipment to make learning more practical and interesting.
- Successful Graduates: A quality university produces graduates that do better in the legal profession. Thus, we chose institutions that have successful graduates who have made significant progress in the legal profession.
- Other Factors: We also considered low fees, safe and friendly campus environments, and extracurricular activities that help students grow outside of academia.
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15 Best University to Study Law in Nigeria in 2025
We have included the top ten best universities to study law in Nigeria and they have been ranked randomly; whatever one you choose, you have set yourself up for success in the legal field.
1. University Of Lagos (UNILAG)
We are confident that UNILAG’s inclusion on this list will come as no surprise to you. The University of Lagos (UNILAG), Lagos is one of Nigeria’s most renowned institutions which was established in 1962
The faculty is fully equipped with contemporary facilities, including up-to-date law libraries and moot courts in order to make sure that the students receive firsthand learning experiences. UNILAG also provides distinctive programs like workshops, seminars, and collaborations with legal firms for giving students that practical exposure to excel in professional life.
This is one. It has been consistently churning out top-notch quality graduates in the legal profession such as the former Vice President Yemi Osinbajo. It has also been highlighted by graduating numerous SANs.
In UNILAG’s 2023 Nigerian Law School bar finals, 25 of its students graduated with First Class honors out of 1,133. This is proof that UNILAG has one of the best Law programs in Nigeria.
2. Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU)
Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU) is another favorite university for its courses, particularly Law Faculty. The university was established in 1961 and has consistently produced well-trained lawyers with experience in the academic as well as practical application of law.
The university is known for its success in moot court competitions and legal research. OAU’s faculty of Law is made up of experienced academics and practicing lawyers who equip students with a balanced education that is both theoretical and practical.
3. The University of Ibadan (UI)
The University of Ibadan (UI) is rich in legal education. Its Faculty of Law was founded in 1948 and is thus one of the oldest law faculties in Nigeria. UI has immensely contributed to the Nigerian legal system through the production of highly qualified legal professionals over the years.
UI graduates have achieved grand success in the legal field, occupying positions as judges, lawyers, and legislators. UI offers extensive study courses that combine theoretical knowledge with practical competencies through various legal clinics, moot court sessions, and internships with credible institutions of law.
During the Nigerian Law School finals in 2023, UI students performed amazingly well, further solidifying UI as one of the best institutions for studying law in Nigeria.
4. Ahmadu Bello University (ABU)
Ahmadu Bello University (ABU) is well reputed in the north of Nigeria, and specifically for its law school, which has been a cornerstone of legal education since the university was founded.
The university offers a variety of courses, including legal research, advocacy, and field-based legal training, to equip the students with theoretical and practical skills. The alumni of ABU have served in influential judicial capacity and as vital legal advisory capacity in Nigeria’s legal systems in various ways.
5. The University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN)
The University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN) is one of Nigeria’s most prestigious universities, especially with regard to legal education. The UNN Faculty of Law has never lacked a solid foundation for students to excel in the practice and theory of law.
Students can specialize in areas such as legal research, advocacy, and the use of contemporary technology in legal practice. The university is equipped with up-to-date facilities, including state-of-the-art moot courtrooms and extensive law libraries, which provide a practical and resourceful learning experience.
UNN graduates have performed exceptionally well in the legal sector, venturing into core areas such as legal practice, the judiciary, and policy making. The presence of this university on this list should not be a mistake, as it has become one of the best institutions to study law over the years.
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6. The University of Uyo (Uniuyo)
The University of Uyo (Uniuyo) is a well-known public university in Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria. Uniuyo Faculty of Law offers a comprehensive legal education with focus on academic and vocational training. The faculty boasts modern infrastructure, comprising a well-stocked law library and moot courts, which maximize the learning process for law students.
Uniuyo has been renowned for having an allegiance to the development of effective legal professionals specialized in various areas of law. Uniuyo graduates have contributed immensely to the practice of law in Nigeria, with most of them holding key positions in law firms, judiciary, and educational institutions.
7. Babcock University
Babcock University, located in Ilishan-Remo, Ogun State, is a well-respected private university for its high-quality education and moral development. Babcock Law Faculty is particularly famous for its delivery of balanced legal education between academic distinction and practical exposure.
The institution is well-furnished with modern facilities, including moot courts and a resourceful law library, which prepare students to be well-equipped to excel. Babcock also focuses on graduating students who are not only well-versed in legal theory but also well-equipped to handle practical legal matters.
8. Nnamdi Azikiwe University
Nnamdi Azikiwe University (UNIZIK) located in Awka, Anambra State, is especially renowned for its high legal education. The UNIZIK Faculty of Law has built a reputation for churning out effective legal professionals who are proficient both in practice and academics since 1992.
The university has a wide range of courses with theory and practice integration. UNIBEN has state-of-the-art facilities such as moot courts and fully equipped law libraries that facilitate hands-on learning for students.
9. The University of Benin (UNIBEN)
The University of Benin (UNIBEN) is one of the universities that is highly renowned for its law programs. Ever since its establishment in 1970, UNIBEN has never been anything less than excellent when it comes to its academic programs, particularly its outstanding law course.
UNIBEN Faculty of Law provides a comprehensive legal education that prepares students with the knowledge necessary for theoretical and practical life within the legal profession. Students are provided with modern facilities, including fully equipped law libraries and moot courtrooms, which enhance learning and practice of the law.
10. Madonna University
Madonna University, being a Catholic institution in Elele, Rivers State, is highly distinguished for academic and moral excellence. Since 1999 when the university was launched, it has offered a strong legal education with its Faculty of Law that integrates ethical training into aggressive academic programs.
Madonna University’s Law Faculty provides students with a strong foundation in principles of law, focusing on both practice and theory. With the latest facilities such as moot courtrooms and a smart law library, students are well equipped to pursue legal practice and research.
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11. Bayero University
While it might surprise you, it is all the more very true that Bayero University boasts one of Nigeria’s best law schools after a rigorous study. Its Faculty of Law was born in 1977 with the vision of producing lawyers whose sense of discipline shall serve and cater to the legal interests of the general community.
The faculty has a sound syllabus that is designed to be in a position to study both Islamic Law and English Common Law, which is meant to prepare their students realistically for the challenges they are most likely to face in their future career either as judges, legal practitioners or corporate consultants wherever they may be in Nigeria.
12. University of Ilorin
Seeking the University of Ilorin Faculty of Law means enjoying a comprehensive legal education that promotes academic excellence as well as the instillation of strong moral principles. Hence, offering our students a balanced knowledge of the law.
There exists a learning and teaching environment conducive to cultivation, with a fervent commitment towards experiential, practicum-based learning.
This practical experience not only builds their advocacy competence but also equips them with the confidence to perform well in real legal settings and excel splendidly at the Nigerian Law.
13. University of Jos (UNIJOS)
University of Jos achieved its new ranking as the second-best University in Nigeria as per WeboMetric rankings, it was among the few Faculties of Law to be fully accredited by the National University Commission. Additionally, UNIJOS has the first run Student Lab in the university and the first On-Line Legal Research Computer Lab in Nigeria.
The two Labs were set up with the support of the Carnegie Corporation of New York in 2004 and they are very intensive and internet-enabled.
14. Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University
Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University (COOU) in Uli, Anambra State, Nigeria, is especially famous for its powerful Faculty of Law. The faculty offers intensive legal training with focus on academic as well as on-practice training and supported by a law library with modern infrastructure.
COOU focuses on the production of skilled legal professionals, with the majority of alumni working excellently in law firms, the judiciary, and academia. The university also publishes the Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University Law Journal, which contains quality legal research.
15. University of Calabar (UNICAL)
University of Calabar (UNICAL) of Cross River State in Nigeria has an outstanding Faculty of Law with four departments that provide a solid legal education. The faculty balances intellectual intensity and practical experience by providing the students with access to moot courts and extensive legal literature.
UNICAL is committed to the production of competent legal professionals, with several of its graduates achieving success in various fields within the legal sector. The institution is also reputable for its comprehensive array of academic programs and its emphasis on building leadership among its students.
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General Requirements for the Study of Law In Nigeria
To study at a university as a law student, you must meet the following general requirements:
- West African Senior School Certificate (WASSCE) or Senior School Certificate (SSCE): The candidates should have credits in Government, English, Mathematics, and two other subjects.
- Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME): The candidates should have the subject combination of Government or Economics, CRS/IRS, Literature in English, and English, with a JAMB score range of 240 – 300.
- Institutional Exam (Post UTME): Where required, the applicants will have to pass the institution’s entry examination.
- Direct Entry: This is for individuals with passes in the appropriate subjects, e.g., A-Level, IJMB, or the International Baccalaureate (IB).
- JUPEB Diploma: A diploma in the relevant area, e.g., National Certificate in Education (NCE), National Diploma (ND), or Higher National Diploma (HND) is also considered.
How Many Years to Study Law in Nigeria
The least study time for the Bachelor of Laws (LL.B) program is five years long. On successful completion of the program, students are issued the LL.B degree.
Law Graduates are called to the Nigerian Bar as Legal Practitioners upon passing the Nigerian Law School Bar examination and becoming lawyers by law.
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Tips for Aspiring Law Students
- Research Programs: Investigate individual universities’ specialized law programs, lecturers, and facilities to find the best fit for your career goals.
- Check Accreditation: Check if the law program is accredited by the Nigerian Bar Association or other relevant bodies.
- Visit Campuses: Where possible, visit universities to get an impression of facilities and the scholarly environment.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes a good university to study law?
Some of the key factors in consideration are well-qualified lecturers, sufficiently stocked law libraries, moot courts, efficient alumni networks, and Council of Legal Education accreditation
How much does it cost to study law in Nigeria?
Fees vary according to institution, with federal ones like Unilorin and UNILAG costing less than private institutions like Afe Babalola University
Does the selection of university determine career prospects in law?
Yes, attending one of the best universities like Unilorin or UNILAG is good for career opportunities because they have very good reputations and alumni networks
Which are the most competitive admissions to law schools in universities?
Universities like UNILAG, UI, and OAU are highly competitive because students prefer them and they have strict academic standards
Conclusion
Choosing the ideal university to study law in Nigeria can be a career-defining choice for your future. Now that you have our top 15 universities, you have a reference guide to enable you to make a better-informed choice.
The best university where you can study law will depend on your aspirations and your requirements. With the right institution, you’ll be all set to be a successful lawyer. Study it well, keep your time, and choose the best for your future in law.
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