A 2025 ranking published by Times Higher Education (THE) has identified the top Nigerian universities offering high-quality education in medicine and health sciences. These institutions were evaluated based on multiple criteria including academic standards, research influence, employer recognition, and graduate employability.

Given Nigeria’s ongoing healthcare crisis—marked by a significant deficit in medical personnel—pursuing a degree in medicine has become a strategic choice. It not only guarantees strong career prospects domestically but also opens doors to international opportunities.

Alarming Shortage of Doctors in Nigeria

A July 2024 report by Frontpage, drawing from data provided by the Medical and Dental Council of Nigeria (MDCN), revealed a worrying trend. While more than 130,000 doctors were registered in the country, only about 58,000 renewed their practice licenses in 2023. This suggests a large proportion of Nigeria’s medical workforce has either emigrated or left the profession altogether. Lagos State alone faces a doctor shortfall of nearly 30,000—placing its doctor-to-patient ratio well below the World Health Organization’s recommended standard.

Despite these challenges, Nigerian-trained doctors remain in high demand across the globe. Countries such as the United Kingdom, United States, and Canada recognize and accept their qualifications, making a degree in medicine not only nationally valuable but internationally portable.

Below is a look at the 10 leading Nigerian universities for studying medicine and health sciences in 2025:

10. Ladoke Akintola University of Technology (LAUTECH)

Known for its innovative curriculum in medical diagnostics and technology, LAUTECH accommodates around 33,331 students, with a student-to-staff ratio of 48.5. Although it did not rank in the top 10 in 2024, it has since made significant strides in research and educational quality.

9. Usmanu Danfodiyo University, Sokoto (UDUS)

Established in 1975, UDUS is recognized for its expertise in tropical medicine and public health. With 23,491 students and a gender ratio skewed toward males (27% female, 73% male), the institution boasts a student-to-staff ratio of 19.0. It ranks within the 801–1000 bracket globally.

8. University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN)

Founded in 1960, UNN is among Nigeria’s most historic academic institutions. It enrolls 43,168 students and has a favorable student-to-staff ratio of 11.4. UNN maintains a global ranking between 801–1000 and is recognized for its extensive research and medical training programs.

7. University of Ilorin (UNILORIN)

With 48,837 students and a student-to-staff ratio of 36.3, UNILORIN provides solid medical training across a vast 15,000-hectare campus. Although it ranked sixth nationally in 2024, it remains a top choice for prospective medical students. The institution has a near-equal gender distribution (48% female, 52% male).

6. Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU)

OAU in Ile-Ife is another respected name in medical education, ranking within the 801–1000 range globally. It supports 36,929 students and maintains a student-to-staff ratio of 29.3. In 2024, it achieved third place nationally, due in part to its strong academic and research credentials.

5. Bayero University, Kano (BUK)

Rapidly gaining national recognition, BUK ranked fourth among Nigerian universities in 2024 and is listed in the 801–1000 global bracket. The university educates 37,377 students with a student-to-staff ratio of 22.3, offering quality instruction in health and clinical sciences.

4. University of Benin (UNIBEN)

UNIBEN stands out for its reputable College of Medicine. It ranked fifth in Nigeria in 2024 and globally between 801–1000. With 44,140 students and a 24.1 student-to-staff ratio, the institution also reports an equal gender balance. Its teaching quality and research score of 51.4 highlight its academic strength.

3. Ahmadu Bello University (ABU), Zaria

ABU, founded in 1962, is a top-tier option for health sciences. Ranking between 601–800 globally, the university has 49,531 students and a low student-to-staff ratio of 16.6, enhancing personalized learning. While the gender ratio (37% female, 63% male) is uneven, ABU remains one of the most comprehensive medical schools in Nigeria.

2. University of Lagos (UNILAG)

UNILAG offers one of the best medical education programs in the country, tying with the University of Ibadan in the 401–500 global bracket in 2024. It supports a student body of 40,197 with a student-to-staff ratio of 24.4 and a perfectly balanced gender ratio (50:50). The school is known for strong industry connections and practical medical training.

1. University of Ibadan (UI)

Retaining its number-one position, UI stands as Nigeria’s leading medical institution in both 2024 and 2025. It ranks in the 401–500 range globally and boasts a strong research reputation. With 37,598 students and a low student-to-staff ratio of 17.9, UI provides an ideal academic environment. The gender ratio (51% female, 49% male) reflects a balanced and inclusive campus.

The university’s prestigious College of Medicine and longstanding academic tradition continue to produce highly skilled healthcare professionals who are respected worldwide.

Global Outlook: Top International Medical Institutions

While Nigeria’s universities are progressing, global benchmarks remain extremely competitive. According to THE’s latest rankings, medical schools in countries like the UK, US, and Canada continue to lead in medical education.

Top 10 Universities for Medicine and Health Sciences Globally:

1. University of Oxford

2. Harvard University

3. University of Cambridge

4. Imperial College London

5. Johns Hopkins University

6. Stanford University (tied)

7. Yale University (tied)

8. University College London (UCL)

9. University of Toronto

10. University of Pennsylvania

Oxford retains the number one spot for clinical and health education, while Harvard leads in research and teaching in medicine. These institutions are known not just for academic excellence but also for producing graduates who go on to shape global healthcare policy and innovation.

Final Thoughts

As Nigeria continues to combat a severe doctor shortage and a growing brain drain in the medical sector, the country’s top universities play a crucial role in preparing the next generation of healthcare professionals. These institutions offer not only a stepping stone into the national health system but also access to international career paths—making medical education a compelling option for the country’s youth.