Education
Private Universities in Southeastern Nigeria
Here’s an overview of private universities in Southeastern Nigeria, covering institutions in Anambra, Enugu, Abia, Imo and Ebonyi States. It includes their locations, founding years and unique profiles to help students, parents and stakeholders understand their backgrounds and standing.
Southeastern Nigeria has emerged as a vibrant hub for private tertiary education that offers students alternatives to the often-overcrowded public universities. Over the past two decades, private universities in southeastern Nigeria have steadily grown, blending academic excellence with strong value-based education.
These universities, many of which were founded by religious organizations or visionary entrepreneurs, not only provide a wide range of courses, from law and medicine to engineering and business but also focus on smaller class sizes, modern infrastructure and a nurturing campus environment.
For students and parents navigating the complex landscape of higher education, understanding the private universities in Southeastern Nigeria is essential. This guide explores these institutions State by State, highlighting their history, locations, offerings and unique contributions to Nigeria’s educational landscape.
Anambra State
Anambra State is home to one of the highest concentrations of private universities in Southeastern Nigeria. Known for its rich cultural heritage and entrepreneurial spirit, the State has seen the establishment of several faith-based and independent institutions that combine academic excellence with values-driven education.
These universities offer a wide range of programmes and continue to attract students from across Nigeria and beyond.
1. Madonna University, Okija
Madonna takes the number one on the list of private universities in southeastern Nigeria. Established on 10 May 1999, Madonna University began as Nigeria’s first fully‑approved private Catholic university, with its take‑off campus in Okija, Anambra State.
Founded by the Very Rev. Fr. Prof. E. M. P. Edeh CSSp, OFR, the institution set out to blend rigorous academics with strong moral and spiritual foundations under the motto “Dignitas Scientiae et Moralis” (Decency in Education and Morals).
Though today Madonna University operates across multiple campuses, with the main administrative headquarters relocated to Elele, Rivers State in 2004, the Okija campus remains an important site for its Faculties of Arts, Social Sciences, Law and Education.
Located along Owerri–Onitsha Expressway in Ihiala LGA, Okija is the institution’s historic home. From those origins, Madonna University continues to draw students committed to academic excellence, service‑oriented leadership and ethical citizenship.
2. Tansian University, Umunya
Tansian University, Umunya stands out among private universities in Southeastern Nigeria. Licensed on 17 May 2007 by the National Universities Commission (NUC) to operate as a private university, it is located in Umunya, Oyi Local Government Area, Anambra State.
The university takes its name and inspiration from the Blessed Cyprian Michael Iwene Tansi, the first West African to be beatified by the Catholic Church, and places emphasis on a values‑based education.
Founded by the late Msgr. Prof. John Bosco Akam, Tansian University emphasizes moral virtue and scholarly excellence under its motto “Scientia Potestas et Virtus” (Knowledge is Power and Virtue).
The university uses two campuses: the main site at Umunya along the Enugu‑Onitsha Expressway, and a satellite campus at Oba in Idemili‑South Local Government Area.
With a wide array of faculties, including Natural & Applied Sciences, Management & Social Sciences, Education, Environmental Sciences, Health Sciences and Law, all programmes at Tansian University are approved and accredited by the NUC.
Essentially, for anyone researching private universities in Southeastern Nigeria, Tansian University, Umunya offers a blend of faith‑based foundation, accreditation assurance and regional relevance within Anambra State’s higher education landscape
3. Paul University, Awka
FACULTY OF LAW BUILDING, PAUL UNIVERSITY AWKA
Paul University, Awka stands as a prominent example of private universities in Southeastern Nigeria that offers both academic depth and a strong moral foundation. Located in Awka, the capital of Anambra State, the institution was officially licensed on 3 November 2009 by the National Universities Commission (NUC) and formally inaugurated on 30 November 2009.
Founded by the bishops of the five ecclesiastical provinces (now 55 dioceses) of the Church of Nigeria (Anglican Communion) East of the Niger, Paul University reflects a deeply rooted Anglican Christian ethos. Its campus was developed on the site of the former St. Paul’s University College, established in 1904 by the Church Missionary Society, thus making the university’s location historically significant in Nigeria’s faith‑based educational tradition.
The motto of Paul University, Awka is “Ecce Ego, Mite Me”, meaning, “Here I am; send me”, and signalling its commitment to producing graduates who are intellectually competent, spiritually grounded, and ready to serve.
As a noteworthy player among private universities in Southeastern Nigeria, Paul University, Awka offers a fully residential learning environment, a variety of undergraduate programmes across its faculties of Arts, Management & Social Sciences, Natural & Applied Sciences, an Institute of Theology, and continuously invests in infrastructure and student‑life enrichment.
For anyone researching private universities in Southeastern Nigeria, Paul University, Awka stands out with its strong Anglican heritage, recent but stable foundation since 2009, strategic location in Anambra State, and holistic approach to education, blending faith, scholarship and service.
4. Peter University, Achina‑Onneh
Peter Univerity, Achina / Onneh
Peter University, Achina-Onneh is a noteworthy new addition to the list of private universities in Southeastern Nigeria. Located in the twin towns of Achina and Onneh in Anambra State, this institution stands out for being faith-based, recently approved, and built with modern infrastructure.
The university is jointly owned by the Catholic Diocese of Awka and the Catholic Diocese of Ekwulobia, placing it firmly among the faith-based private universities in Southeastern Nigeria.
It was approved by the National Universities Commission (NUC) and the federal government of Nigeria as one of twelve new private universities in April 2022.
The official list from NUC lists Peter University, Achina-Onneh, Anambra State with establishment year 2022. Peter University is listed by national private school directories as being “officially established in 2022” and fully accredited.
The university offers a number of faculties including Science & Computing, Arts & Social/Management Sciences, Medical & Health Sciences, and Law.
In the broader context of private universities in Southeastern Nigeria, Peter University, Achina-Onneh is significant because it adds to the diversity of private universities in Southeastern Nigeria by bridging faith-based education with modern academic offerings in Anambra State. It represents the ongoing growth of private tertiary institutions in the region, especially newer entrants beyond the early pioneers. It offers opportunities for students seeking a private university in the Southeast with newer infrastructure and modern programmes, an option that complements older institutions in the region.
5. Legacy University, Okija
Legacy University, Okija stands as a compelling choice among private universities in Southeastern Nigeria. Located in Ubahumonum village, in Okija, Ihiala Local Government Area, Anambra State, the university occupies a peaceful and spacious campus about 20 km from Onitsha along the Onitsha–Owerri expressway.
The Federal Executive Council approved Legacy University on 2 November 2016, and its licence was issued by the National Universities Commission (NUC) on 22 November 2016.
As a listed private university in Southeastern Nigeria, Legacy University is part of the region’s growing portfolio of private institutions offering quality tertiary education.
In May 2022, Legacy University announced it had achieved full accreditation for all its courses under NUC supervision, and had ranked first for student-teacher ratio in the South-East zone for 2021.
The institution’s motto is “Scholarship par Excellence”, expressing its commitment to high academic standards and character formation. Legacy University campus sits on over 100 hectares of land, offering room for expansion and development of infrastructure.
In the realm of private universities in Southeastern Nigeria, Legacy University, Okija distinguishes itself by its relatively recent establishment (2016), its solid accreditation record, growth trajectory and its clear mission to deliver quality education in a serene environment. Prospective students seeking a private university in the Southeast will find Legacy University a credible, value-driven option within Anambra State.
Enugu State
6. Caritas University
Caritas University
Caritas University, Enugu is a well-established example of private universities in Southeastern Nigeria that offers a strong combination of faith-based values, academic breadth and modern infrastructure. It is a private Catholic university located in Amorji-Nike, Emene, Enugu State.
The university was approved by the Federal Government of Nigeria on 16 December 2004, and formally opened on 21 January 2005. Founded by Rev. Fr. Prof. Emmanuel M. P. Edeh C.S.Sp, OFR who also founded other educational institutions.
Its motto is “Love for Education and Moral”, reflecting its commitment to combining academic rigour with ethical formation. The university offers a variety of faculties, including Engineering, Environmental Sciences, Natural Sciences, Management & Social Sciences.
In terms of accreditation, Caritas University’s programmes such as Computer Science and Mechanical Engineering have received full accreditation from the National Universities Commission (NUC). Its Computer Science programme scored 84.80% in December 2024 and was recommended for full accreditation.
As one of the earlier private universities in southeastern Nigeria, Caritas University ranks among the pioneers of private tertiary education in Enugu State and the Southeast. It combines faith-based ownership/model with modern academic faculties which makes it a strong choice for students seeking both value-driven education and broad course offerings.
Its location in Enugu gives it regional advantage among private universities in Southeastern Nigeria by being accessible and part of an academic hub.
If you’re researching private universities in Southeastern Nigeria, Caritas University, Enugu stands out with its early establishment, credible accreditation track record, faith-based ethos and academic diversity.
7. Godfrey Okoye University
Godfrey Okoye University Hostel
Godfrey Okoye University (GOUNI), Ugwuomu-Nike is a standout institution among the private universities in Southeastern Nigeria, combining faith-based governance, modern infrastructure and a strong academic reputation.
This private university is owned by the Catholic Diocese of Enugu and named after Bishop Godfrey Mary Paul Okoye, a prominent former Bishop of Enugu.
It obtained its operational licence from the National Universities Commission (NUC) on 3 November 2009, marking its official establishment. The main campus is located at Ugwuomu-Nike in Enugu State.
Over the years, GOUNI has gained accreditation for a number of its academic programmes. For example, in August 2021, 13 programmes received full accreditation, including Law, Computer Science and Sociology.
The motto of the university is “Unity of Knowledge”, underlining its commitment to integrating faith, scholarship and societal service. GOUNI is also noted for its unique infrastructure and development initiatives. Its Ugwuomu-Nike campus houses a European Business Park and a Centre of Practical Skills in collaboration with European companies, offering an innovative blend of academic and vocational training.
When exploring private universities in Southeastern Nigeria, Godfrey Okoye University, Ugwuomu-Nike (Enugu) stands out for its relatively early establishment (2009), faith-based ownership, increasing accreditation achievements, and modern campus development located in Enugu State.
8. Renaissance University
Renaissance University, Ugbawka (Enugu State) is one of the noteworthy private universities in Southeastern Nigeria. It was established in 2005, placing it among the earlier private tertiary institutions in the region. Located in Ugbawka, Nkanu East Local Government Area, Enugu State, the campus is accessible from Enugu city and lies off the Enugu–Port Harcourt Express Road.
The university offers a range of faculties including Natural & Applied Sciences, Management & Social Sciences, and Law. It recently achieved full re-accreditation for key programmes like Law, Computer Science, Accounting, History & International Studies, and Economics.
As a leading example of private universities in Southeastern Nigeria, Renaissance University combines its early establishment, accreditation achievements and strategic location in Enugu State to offer students a credible private university option in the region.
Abia State
9. Gregory University
Gregory University, Uturu is among the private universities in southeastern Nigeria. It is located in Amaokwe-Achara, Uturu (Isuikwuato LGA), Abia State. The university was licensed by the National Universities Commission (NUC) in 2012.
The institution’s motto is “Knowledge for Tomorrow”, reflecting its commitment to future-focused education. The founder and Chancellor is Gregory Ibe, a Nigerian academic, entrepreneur and educationist.
Gregory University sits on a large, serene campus of approximately 100 hectares in Uturu, Abia State. The University offers a wide array of programmes across its faculties, including Medicine & Health Sciences, Engineering, Law, Agriculture, Natural & Applied Sciences, Humanities, Social & Management Sciences.
The institution emphasizes entrepreneurial education, practical skills and full-residency experience as part of its distinguishing features among private universities in Southeastern Nigeria. It has developed modern facilities: e-learning systems, engineering workshops, laboratories, language labs (for second-language acquisition) and industry-linked centres of enterprise.
As one of the private universities in Southeastern Nigeria located in Abia State, Gregory University expands the options for tertiary education in the region beyond public institutions. Its focus on technology, entrepreneurship and global perspectives sets it apart among the region’s private universities in Southeastern Nigeria.
For prospective students or families exploring private universities in Southeastern Nigeria, Gregory University serves as a credible option combining modern infrastructure, broad programmes and a value-driven mission.
10. Clifford University
Clifford University, Owerrinta is a compelling example of private universities in Southeastern Nigeria. It is a private Christian university owned and operated by the Seventh‑day Adventist Church in Nigeria. It is located in Owerrinta, with take-off campus or facilities also at Ihie in Isiala Ngwa North, Abia State.
The institution was founded in 2013, according to Adventist history sources, and officially approved/licensed by the National Universities Commission (NUC) in 2016. Its motto is “Excellence, Faith, and Service.”
The university has grown rapidly. From its inception with 3 faculties, 10 departments and 15 degree programmes around 2017 to by 2024 having six faculties, 30+ departments and 34+ degree programmes, with student numbers rising sharply.
Clifford University emphasizes moral and character development alongside academics rooted in faith-based values, in line with many private universities in Southeastern Nigeria. It stands out among the private universities in Southeastern Nigeria because it represents a faith-based private university option in Abia State, a region where choices for private tertiary education are expanding.
It is a relatively recent but rapidly expanding institution, indicating the growth trend of private universities in Southeastern Nigeria. It is commitment to combining academic offerings and moral/spiritual formation, which is a common value proposition among private universities in Southeastern Nigeria.
11. Spiritan University
Spiritan University
Spiritan University, Nneochi is a key player among private universities in Southeastern Nigeria, particularly within Abia State’s tertiary education landscape. Located in Umunneochi Local Government Area of Abia State, Nigeria, the university was established by the Congregation of the Holy Spirit (Spiritans), Province of Nigeria Southeast, and is owned and operated under the Catholic mission.
Spiritan University, Nneochi was approved and licensed as a private and conventional university by the National Universities Commission (NUC) and the Federal Executive Council (FEC) on 6 December 2017. It commenced academic activities in the 2018/2019 academic session, initially with 15 departments in the Faculties of Natural & Applied Sciences, Arts, Management & Social Sciences, plus a Unit of General & Entrepreneurial Studies.
The motto of the institution is: “Learning for Industry and Dignity.” This reflects the institution’s emphasis on preparing graduates for meaningful work and dignified contribution to society.
In May 2022, the university announced that 10 of its programmes had undergone accreditation review by the NUC; 7 achieved full accreditation and 3 received interim status.
As one of the comparatively newer institutions in the region, Spiritan University, Nneochi expands the options for tertiary education in the Southeast. It embodies the trend of faith-based private universities in Southeastern Nigeria that aim to combine academic excellence with values, moral formation and service.
Because it is located in Abia State, a State with fewer private universities compared to some neighbours, it helps increase access to private tertiary education within the region.
For anyone exploring private universities in Southeastern Nigeria, Spiritan University, Nneochi stands out because of its faith-based foundation and ownership by the Spiritans; recent establishment; solid accreditation beginnings, with several programmes fully approved; and its strategic location in Abia State, offering another private university option in the regio
12. Nigerian British University
Nigerian British University (NBU), Asa, Abia State is a contemporary example of private universities in Southeastern Nigeria, with a clear emphasis on global standards and local access. It is a private university located at Kilometre 10, Port Harcourt/Aba Expressway, Asa (Ukwa West LGA), Abia State.
The institution was licensed by the National Universities Commission (NUC) as a private university in 2022. In February 2023, the then-Governor of Abia State, Okezie Ikpeazu formally commissioned NBU and awarded scholarships to its first cohort of students.
By March 2025, NBU had achieved accreditation from the NUC for 24 courses across its faculties, signalling its steady growth among private universities in Southeastern Nigeria. The university describes itself as delivering “British standard education within Nigeria,” blending global best practices with a Nigerian context.
As a private university in Southeastern Nigeria, Nigerian British University stands out in several respects. It is among the newer entrants in the region, thus expanding educational options for students in Abia State and neighbouring communities. Its stated aim to provide “British-Nigerian” education aligns with the trend of private universities in Southeastern Nigeria striving for international relevance while remaining accessible locally.
With accreditation milestones met early (such as 24 courses in 2025), it demonstrates commitment to legitimacy and growth which is considered important for families comparing private universities in Southeastern Nigeria.
If you are evaluating private universities in Southeastern Nigeria, Nigerian British University, Asa, Abia State offers a fresh, globally-oriented option grounded in the region. Its early achievements in accreditation and infrastructure, combined with a modern educational model, make it a noteworthy choice within the expanding landscape of private higher education in the Southeast.
Imo State
13. Hezekiah University
Department of Business Administration – Hezekiah University Umudi
Hezekiah University, Umudi, Nkwerre, Imo State stands out among the private universities in Southeastern Nigeria for its faith‑based founding, accreditation and growing infrastructure. Hezekiah University was officially established as a private university in May 2015 under a licence from the federal government of Nigeria.
The campus is located in Umudi town, Nkwerre Local Government Area, Imo State. It operates on two campuses: a take‑off campus of about 13.1 hectares and a main campus of about 100.6 hectares within Umudi. The university is founded by the Living Christ Mission Inc. and named after His Grace Prof. Daddy Hezekiah, MFR.
Its motto is “Academic Excellence with Good Morals.” According to sources, it is the first private university in Imo State. The university held its maiden convocation ceremony in March 2025, signalling its emergence and consolidation among the private universities in Southeastern Nigeria.
As part of the growing category of private universities in Southeastern Nigeria, Hezekiah University adds crucial tertiary‑education capacity within Imo State and the region. Its faith‑based origin, emphasis on morals and character alongside academics and substantial land base position it as a strong option within the network of private universities in Southeastern Nigeria.
For prospective students and families looking into private universities in Southeastern Nigeria, Hezekiah University offers a relatively newer but credible choice, especially, in Imo State where private university options were fewer.
14. Claretian University of Nigeria
Claretian University of Nigeria, Nekede is among the notable private universities in Southeastern Nigeria that offers a faith‑based education rooted in service, scholarship and character. The university is owned by the Claretian Missionaries through its subsidiary, the Claretian University Education Foundation (CUEF).
The Federal Executive Council (FEC) approved the establishment of Claretian University, Nekede among a batch of new private universities on 3 February 2021. The take‑off campus is located at Maryland, Old Nekede Road, Owerri West Local Government Area, Imo State.
The university’s motto is “Securing the future through Education.” As at May 2023, Claretian University matriculated 152 new students for the 2022/2023 academic session, up from 71 students in its maiden matriculation.
As a private university in Southeastern Nigeria, Claretian University, Nekede stands out for its relatively recent establishment in Imo State, expanding private tertiary‑education choices in the region; its faith‑based ownership and mission, aligning with a pattern seen among many private universities in Southeastern Nigeria where religious organizations take leadership roles; its commitment to growth. Despite being new, the institution is already matriculating new student cohorts and developing infrastructure.
For students and parents exploring private universities in Southeastern Nigeria, Claretian University of Nigeria, Nekede offers a meaningful option: faith‑based, newly established, with a modern mission and growing presence.
However, given its relative youth, it’s wise to verify the accreditation of specific programmes and review how the university is building its institutional track‑record.
Ebonyi State
15. Evangel University
Evangel University, Akaeze is a distinguished example of private universities in Southeastern Nigeria that blends faith‑based education with academic ambition in Ebonyi State. It was officially licensed by the National Universities Commission (NUC) in February 2012.
It commenced academic activities on 27 November 2012, for the 2012/2013 session at its take‑off campus in Okpoto, along the Enugu‑Abakaliki Expressway (Km 48), Ebonyi State. The institution is owned by the Assemblies of God Church, Nigeria and operates on a faith‑based mission.
Its core motto is “Education for the total man,” which underscores its aim to provide holistic education, combining academics, moral character and service to society. Evangel University comprises four main colleges – the College of Science, College of Health Sciences, College of Management Sciences, and College of Arts & Social Sciences.
The university obtained full accreditation from the NUC in 2016. Initially operating from its take‑off campus at Okpoto, the university is in the process of relocating to a permanent site at Akaeze in Ebonyi State.
As a private university in Southeastern Nigeria, Evangel University excels due to its early approval among private universities in the region, giving it an established presence in Ebonyi State; faith‑based ownership and mission which emphasize character development, making it an option for parents and students seeking value‑based private universities in Southeastern Nigeria; wide range of faculties and accredited programmes, ensuring it meets recognized academic standards among the private universities in Southeastern Nigeria; regional location in Ebonyi State, adding to the options for private universities in Southeastern Nigeria beyond the more heavily‑served states.
When exploring private universities in Southeastern Nigeria, Evangel University offers a credible choice. Established in 2012, faith‑rooted, fully accredited as of 2016, with expanding academic offerings and a holistic education philosophy. Prospective students should, as with any institution, verify specific programme accreditation and campus facilities. Overall, Evangel University stands firmly among the private universities in Southeastern Nigeria.
Observations and Reflections
Private universities in Southeastern Nigeria largely emerged after the first wave of private universities in Nigeria around 1999 – 2005. Many are church‑owned (Catholic, Anglican or other Christian denominations) and emphasize values such as morality, holistic formation and service, alongside academics, e.g. Madonna University, Caritas University, Godfrey Okoye University. This trend reflects the desire of religious organizations to participate in higher education and to offer alternatives to state‑run institutions.
Anambra State has the largest cluster in the list, with five private universities – Madonna, Tansian, Paul, Peter, Legacy identified. This indicates a strong appetite and market for private tertiary education in Anambra. Enugu State also has several – Caritas, Godfrey Okoye, Renaissance while Abia, Imo and Ebonyi each have private universities, albeit fewer in number, showing more recent growth or later entry in those States.
Many of these institutions have received accreditation or licensure from the National Universities Commission (NUC) which is Nigeria’s statutory regulator for universities. For example, Tansian University secured full accreditation for ten programmes in 2022. Godfrey Okoye University received its provisional licence in November 2009 and has since expanded into multiple faculties.
However, being newer, some of the institutions are still building their reputation, alumni network, research output and infrastructure.
Private universities in the Southeast face several challenges such as competition for students, especially, with public universities, ensuring accreditation and maintaining quality, building research capacity, attracting and retaining qualified faculty, and, in some cases, infrastructure development.
At the same time, they have opportunities: offering more stable academic calendars (fewer strikes than public universities), smaller class sizes, bespoke programmes, stronger industry linkages, international collaborations and innovation in blended learning.
In Conclusion …
Private universities in Southeastern Nigeria have steadily transformed the educational landscape, providing diverse options for students seeking quality tertiary education beyond public institutions. From the longstanding institutions like Madonna University, Okija to the more recent entrants such as Nigerian British University, Asa, these universities combine academic rigour, faith‑based values and modern infrastructure to meet the evolving needs of students.
Across states like Anambra, Enugu, Abia, Imo and Ebonyi, private universities offer specialized programmes, accreditation credibility and opportunities for personal and professional development. Institutions such as Godfrey Okoye University, Renaissance University and Evangel University showcase how faith‑based education and entrepreneurship-driven curricula can coexist to prepare graduates for both local and global challenges.
For students and parents evaluating options, private universities in Southeastern Nigeria represent a growing, dynamic sector with choices that cater to academic excellence, moral formation and industry-relevant skills. Whether seeking tradition, innovation, or faith‑integrated learning, the region’s private universities provide credible, accredited and accessible pathways to higher education success.
In essence, the landscape of private universities in Southeastern Nigeria continues to expand, reflecting both the region’s educational aspirations and Nigeria’s broader commitment to higher education growth and diversity.
References
- https://www.nigerianprivateschoolsdirectory.com/universities/madonna-university-okija
- https://www.educationinfo.com.ng/tansian-university
- https://www.educationinfo.com.ng/paul-university
- https://www.educationinfo.com.ng/peter-university
- https://www.educationinfo.com.ng/legacy-university
- https://www.firstclassnigeria.com/caritas-university
- https://independent.ng/13-academic-programmes-get-full-accreditation-in-godfrey-okoye-university-enugu-vc/
- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Godfrey_Okoye_University
- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Clifford_University
- https://spiritanuniversity.edu.ng/about-us
- https://nbu.edu.ng/contact/
- https://claretianuniversity.edu.ng/home/aboutus
- https://hezekiah.edu.ng/about-us/
- https://official.evangeluniversity.edu.ng/
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