Chemistry is among the most fundamental sciences courses in Nigeria. It is a crucial component in the food fields, pharmaceuticals, petrochemicals cosmetics, agriculture, and food. With the increasing need for research and innovation. Chemistry graduates are vital in tackling local and global issues.
Choosing the best university to study at Chemistry in Nigeria will affect your academic progress and career progression. An excellent university provides laboratories, high-quality instruction and research facilities. This guide will help you locate the most reputable institutions for you to begin your journey in Chemistry.
Here are the following criteria for the Best University to Study Chemistry in Nigeria for the 2025 academic year:
- Accreditation from NUC and other professional organizations
- Quality of teaching and lab infrastructure
- Research output and employability of graduates
- International recognition of staff qualifications and certifications for employees.
- Students’ satisfaction and the learning environment
Top 10 Universities to Study Chemistry in Nigeria
1. University of Ibadan (UI)
The University of Ibadan is Nigeria’s oldest and most revered institutions. Its Department of Chemistry has a solid foundation of scientific excellence as well as research. The department provides students with hands-on experiences in organic, physical, and inorganic and analytical chemistry.
Why Choose University of Ibadan?
- A highly ranked science faculty from West Africa
- Department of Chemistry with a focus on research
- Collaborations with international partners and programs for exchange
- A strong postgraduate and research program.
- Facilities and laboratories that are well-funded and equipped
Characteristics of Teaching:
- Professionally qualified lecturers with international exposure
- Sessions in well-equipped labs
- Regularly scheduled seminars and workshops
- Approach centered on the student
- Active Chemistry student group
UI remains the top choice to serious Chemistry students looking for a quality education and support for research.
2. Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU)
The OAU’s Chemistry program is known for its top-quality researchers and scientists. The faculty focuses on practical and theoretical aspects of Chemistry. Students receive the extensive lab instruction and an interdisciplinary curriculum.
Why Choose OAU?
- The top science and technology faculty
- Modern labs are available as well as Pilot plant
- Affordable tuition with the highest academic value
- Opportunities to learn in the industrial sector and internships
- Robust alumni-based network of the field of science and technology
Characteristics of Teaching:
- Current Chemistry syllabus
- The focus should be on research and innovation.
- The lab to field transition is strong.
- Participation in global and local Chemistry competitions
- Active mentorship from lecturers
OAU provides a stimulating learning environment that helps develop knowledgeable as well as competent Chemistry graduates.
3. University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN)
UNN provides a well-organized Chemistry program that is a blend of scientific research with applied sciences. The university is a centre for innovation in science and well-known for its contributions to the Nigerian industry and academic sectors.
Why Choose UNN?
- NUC International accreditation
- Research-driven culture that is strong both in applied and pure Chemistry
- Strategic location and industry connections
- Awards for students who excel
- Journals and publications from the department that are active.
Characteristics of Teaching:
- Blend of theory and practical learning
- Assessment based on projects
- Chemical laboratories that are well-equipped
- Professionals from the industry give guest lectures.
- Regularly reviewed curriculum for the relevance
UNN is an excellent option for Chemistry students looking to achieve industry relevance and academic excellence.
4. Ahmadu Bello University (ABU)
The Chemistry department at ABU Zaria is notable for its dedication to community growth by utilizing research. It provides postgraduate and undergraduate programs that focus on environmental, analytical and industrial chemistry.
Why Choose ABU?
- One of the biggest Chemistry department in Nigeria
- Quality education and affordable tuition
- The campaign is gaining momentum to Northern Nigeria
- Engaged in sustainable development initiatives
- A wide range of Chemistry options for specialization
Characteristics of Teaching:
- The emphasis is on hands-on projects and fieldwork.
- A diverse group of faculty from both the local and international world.
- Integration of local issues in the curriculum
- Job placement and internships via industrial links
- Utilization of ICT in lab and teaching management
ABU is the ideal choice for students who are interested in research and solving real-world problems by using Chemistry.
5. University of Lagos (UNILAG)
UnilAG’s Chemistry program is renowned for its the highest quality in the field of applied science and innovation. It offers advanced education in a variety of Chemistry branches, aided by highly experienced instructors and modern laboratories.
Why Choose UNILAG?
- located in Nigeria’s capital city, Lagos.
- Solid academic and industry collaboration
- A vibrant student experience with academic help
- Different specialization areas in Chemistry
- Grants for innovation and competitive research
Characteristics of Teaching:
- Blend of lectures, project work and laboratory sessions
- Digital library access
- Continuously assessed and feedback
- Collaboration with pharmaceutical and tech companies
- Support for last year research projects
UNILAG offers a cutting-edge Chemistry program that is designed to meet the needs of modern technological demands and future-focused career.
6. Covenant University (CU)
Covenant University is one of the top private universities in Nigeria with a an innovative approach to innovation and science. The university’s Department of Chemistry integrates modern research as well as ethics and technology to help students become successful scientists. The university focuses on a focused, disciplined academic environment as well as an innovation-focused education.
Why Choose Covenant University?
- Modern laboratories and equipment
- Industry-aligned Chemistry curriculum
- International study and internship opportunities
- Facilities for clean, technologically-connected campus
- Very high graduate employment rate
Characteristics of Teaching:
- Mentorship for Researchers and PhD students
- Learning with ICT integrated
- Regular science exhibits and innovation competitions
- Modern chemical simulation software
- A strong emphasis on entrepreneurship in Chemistry
CU is still one of the most prestigious private universities to study Chemistry in Nigeria perfect for students looking for structure, support for research as well as high-quality standards in the world.
7. Federal University of Technology, Akure (FUTA)
FUTA is famous for its science and technology oriented approach as well as their Chemistry Department is a vital element of that reputation. The program combines fundamental knowledge of science and technology with applications in materials sciences, pharmaceuticals, and environmental management. It’s an ideal option for students looking for technical exposure and new ideas.
Why Choose FUTA?
- A strong reputation for STEM-based education
- A curriculum designed specifically for the needs of modern industry requirements
- Collaborations with research agencies such as NASENI and NIPRD
- The home of several research and tech centers
- The ability to access grants and competitions
Characteristics of Teaching:
- Hands-on lab experiments every semester
- Training in the use of analytical software tools
- Research assignments based on teams
- Innovation hubs based on Chemistry
- Peer mentorship and academic clubs
FUTA offers a thorough Chemistry training for the next generation of researchers, specifically those wanting to investigate environmental or industrial chemical.
8. University of Ilorin (UNILORIN)
The UNILORIN’s Chemistry program is well-known by its reliability, unbroken academic calendar, and constant quality. The department provides a mix of instruction in the classroom, hands-on lab experience, and community-based research, which makes it a renowned name in Nigeria’s academic world.
Why Choose UNILORIN?
- A quick academic calendar that is not impacted by strikes
- A safe and well-maintained learning space
- Demand in UNILORIN Chemistry graduates
- Professional training for postgraduate studies
- Strong regional and local alliances
Characteristics of Teaching:
- Scheduled lectures and labs
- Community-based and periodic industrial projects
- Close student-lecturer mentoring
- Workshops, study groups and peer-led groups
- Thesis research that is competitive and final-year.
UNILORIN is the ideal choice for shrewd learners who are seeking an organized and stable academic setting with excellent career prospects.
9. Lagos State University (LASU)
The LASU’s Department of Chemistry is a rapidly growing hub for academic and industrial training in sciences. It is located in the center of Lagos where students can gain the classroom and in field experiences in chemistry applied, and have access to industry for practical experience and internships.
Why Choose LASU?
- Urban location strategically located near research labs and businesses
- Competitive Chemistry curriculum
- The high level of employability in Lagos-based industry
- Influence of alumni is strong within the business sector
- Affordable tuition and a high-quality education
Characteristics of Teaching:
- Frequent visits to the industrial site and fieldwork
- Practical and dynamic classes
- Regularly reviewed the curriculum to meet industry demands
- Experimentation with the entrepreneurial the chemistry of entrepreneurial
- Collaborative learning that is interdisciplinary in its goal
LASU offers a wide range of opportunities for students who want to combine learning in science with real-world industrial and business engagement.
10. University of Benin (UNIBEN)
UNIBEN is among the most active universities in Nigeria and has a long-running Chemistry department. The school’s focus is on pure and applied Chemistry, encouraging student research presentation, academic research, and collaborations with international academics.
Why Choose UNIBEN?
- Research funding that is consistent and grants
- Active participation in the national Chemistry forums
- Large departmental research database
- A solid lab equipment and safety protocols
- Strategic location for linkages between industry and
Characteristics of Teaching:
- Teaching through research and the final year defense of the project
- Support for the publication of journals for students
- Solid collaborations with the petrochemical industry
- Access to the latest chemistry software tools
- Interdisciplinarity in learning through biotech and Physics
UNIBEN is distinguished by its innovative and research-based curriculum. an excellent choice for those who are interested in industrial or academic chemical careers.
Conclusion
The study of Chemistry in Nigeria can lead to jobs in industries, health as well as energy and education. These universities are the top institutions of 2025 for those seeking an academically rigorous education as well as research opportunities and practical skills. Each university has its own advantages through the use of technology, industry access or international partnerships.
Choose a university that aligns with your career goals and learning style. If you have the right training your Chemistry degree can open the door to world-wide opportunities in the field of science and technology.
