Edo State is home to some great universities, each with its own unique qualities.
Whether you’re looking for a big university with thousands of students, a state-owned institution, or a private university with a more focused learning environment, Edo has options for you.
Let’s explore these universities in a way that makes it easy to understand, even if you’re just starting to think about higher education.
Federal University in Edo State
1. University of Benin (UNIBEN)
If you’ve heard about universities in Nigeria, UNIBEN is probably on your list. Established in 1970, it is one of Nigeria’s top federal universities, known for academic excellence and research.
- Location: Benin City
- Why it’s great: UNIBEN has a strong reputation in engineering, medicine, law, and social sciences. It also has a large, diverse student population, making it an exciting place to study.
- Fun fact: UNIBEN’s graduates are found in high places, including politics, business, and entertainment.
State Universities in Edo State
2. Ambrose Alli University (AAU), Ekpoma
Named after a former governor of Bendel State (now Edo and Delta), AAU is a well-respected state university.
- Location: Ekpoma
- Why it’s great: It offers a variety of courses in arts, sciences, and professional fields like medicine and engineering.
- Did you know? AAU has produced notable alumni in different fields, including business and politics.

3. Edo University, Iyamho (EDI)
Edo University, Iyamho (formerly known as Edo State University) is one of Nigeria’s newest universities, founded in 2016.
- Location: Iyamho
- Why it’s great: This university is modern, with excellent facilities and a focus on technology and innovation.
- Cool feature: The university has a partnership with international institutions, giving students access to global education opportunities.
Private Universities in Edo State
Edo State has several private universities. These schools often offer smaller class sizes, better student-teacher interaction, and modern learning environments.
University | Location | Why It’s Great |
---|---|---|
4. Benson Idahosa University (BIU) | Benin City | Founded by Archbishop Benson Idahosa, BIU emphasizes character and leadership. |
5. Igbinedion University | Okada | Nigeria’s first private university, offering diverse programs. |
6. Samuel Adegboyega University | Ogwa | A faith-based university with a focus on academic excellence. |
7. Wellspring University | Evbuobanosa | A fast-growing institution with modern teaching methods. |
8. Mudiame University | Irrua | Focuses on science, technology, and research. |
9. Lighthouse University | Evbuobanosa | One of the newer universities with a goal of providing quality education. |

Why Choose a University in Edo State?
So, why should you consider any of these universities? Here are some key reasons:
- Diverse Options: From federal to private, you can choose based on your budget and preferences.
- Rich Culture: Edo State has a deep historical and cultural background, making it an interesting place to live and study.
- Quality Education: Many of these universities have strong academic programs and notable alumni.
Whether you’re looking for a large, well-established university like UNIBEN or a smaller, focused institution like Samuel Adegboyega University, Edo State has something for everyone. The choice depends on what you want in a university—affordability, academic reputation, or specialized programs.
What do you think? If you were to choose a university in Edo, which one would be at the top of your list?
Subscribe to our Newsletter
Stay updated with the latest trends in African Pop Culture!
