If you’re looking for a private university in Ondo State, Nigeria, you’re in luck. The state has some well-established and fast-growing private institutions that offer quality education, good facilities, and a great environment for learning.
In this guide, you’ll discover the 4 top private universities in Ondo State, what makes each unique, what you should look out for, and some tips on choosing the right one for you.

Why Choose a Private University in Ondo State?
Studying at a private university offers several advantages:
- Smaller class sizes and potentially more personal attention from lecturers.
- Often fewer disruptions from strikes compared to some public universities.
- Modern infrastructure and sometimes newer teaching methods.
- In Ondo State specifically, you’ll find options with good reputations, peaceful campuses, and a mix of disciplines.
Of course, private universities usually cost more, so you’ll need to balance quality, cost, and your own career goals.
Check Also: List of all Universities in Ondo State
What to Look For Before You Apply
When choosing a private university, especially in Ondo State, check for the following:
- Accreditation: Ensure the university is recognised by the National Universities Commission (NUC).
- Course accreditation: Make sure the specific programme you’re interested in is approved.
- Facilities: Good labs, good library, reliable power & internet, modern classrooms.
- Location & campus life: Is the environment safe? Are there amenities and support?
- Fee structure & value: What do you get for your money? Include tuition + accommodation + extras.
- Graduate outcomes: Do students from the university get jobs? Are alumni networks strong?
- Special focus or niche: Some universities may focus on technology, others on social sciences, etc.
That said, now let’s list out the private Universities in Ondo State…

4 Top Private Universities in Ondo State
Here are some of the best private universities in Ondo State, each with unique strengths.
1. Achievers University, Owo
- Location: Owo, Ondo State.
- Established: 2007.
- Why choose Achievers: It offers a broad range of courses (from engineering to law and management) and emphasises leadership, integrity and student-development.
- What to check: The fee for your specific course and year; it’s a private university so costs will be higher than public institutions.
2. Elizade University, Ilara‑Mokin
- Location: Ilara-Mokin, Ondo State.
- Established: 2012 (or around) as a private university by Chief Michael Ade Ojo.
- Strengths: Known for good infrastructure, engineering and technology programmes, and a commitment to innovation and global standard education.
- What to check: For engineering/technology courses, facilities matter a lot, labs, equipment, and real-world exposure.
3. Wesley University, Ondo
- Location: Ondo City, Ondo State.
- Established: 2007 by the Methodist Church Nigeria.
- Highlights: A faith-based institution combining academics with character development. Offers courses in management sciences, technology, agriculture and others.
- What to check: For your course of interest check accreditation and specialised classes in private universities sometimes newer courses take time to build full capacity.
4. Sam Maris University, Supare‑Akoko
- Location: Supare-Akoko, Ondo State.
- Founded: Very recently (2023) as a private university.
- Unique point: Because it’s new, there could be opportunities to be part of pioneering batches, possible scholarships, or newer facilities but also some caution since newer universities might still be building up reputation and resources.
- What to check: Check the departments you’re interested in, how many years they’ve been accrediting those courses, faculty strength, and if the university has full facilities.
Read Also: Universities that Offer Cybersecurity in Nigeria
How to Choose the Best Private University in Ondo State
If you’re not too sure of the right one to choose among these 4 top Private Universities in Ondo State, here’s a simple decision-making checklist:
- Course alignment: Does the university offer the exact course you want (e.g., Computer Science, Cybersecurity, Law, Engineering)?
- Accreditation & reputation: Is the programme accredited by NUC? What’s the reputation of the university for that particular course?
- Cost vs budget: What’s the tuition fee? What about accommodation, feeding, extra charges? Can you afford it?
- Campus and facilities: Visit if possible or check online photos, modern labs, good accommodation, power/internet supply.
- Location & convenience: Is the location manageable for you (travel from home, cost of living)?
- Career support & alumni: Does the university offer career services, internships, and is the alumni network active?
- Growth & future value: Will the degree hold value in the job market? Especially for private universities, look at graduate outcomes.
See Also: Cheapest Universities in Ondo State

FAQs for the Top Private Universities in Ondo State
Q1. Are private universities in Ondo State accredited?
Yes. The private universities listed (Achievers, Elizade, Wesley, Sam Maris) are recognised by the NUC and operate legally.
Q2. Are the fees at private universities in Ondo State very high?
Generally yes, they are higher than public universities since they don’t receive full government subsidy.
For example, estimates show private university fees in Ondo might range from about ₦900,000 to ₦1,500,000 (or more) per session depending on course.
Q3. Can I pay in instalments at private universities?
Many private universities allow payment in instalments or have early-payment discounts.
It’s advisable to check with the university’s finance/registrar office for specific plan.
Q4. Is it better to pick a private university now rather than public because of strikes?
In many cases, yes private universities often have fewer disruptions from strikes.
However, ensure you pick one with good academic standards, not only based on fewer strikes.
Q5. Does being newer mean the university is less valuable?
Not necessarily but it means you should check more carefully: ensure the programme is fully accredited, faculty experience, facilities are complete, and graduate outcomes are being tracked.
A newer university may offer some incentives but also might still be building up.
Final Words
If you’re ready to embark on your university journey in Ondo State and want the private-university experience, you have excellent options.
- If you prioritise technology and engineering, Elizade University might be a strong choice.
- If you value character and spiritual-grounded education, Wesley University could fit.
- If you want leadership, integrity and a solid private institution, Achievers University is worth considering.
- If you’re adventurous and want to be part of a new institution, Sam Maris University offers that possibility.
Make sure to visit the campuses (if possible), talk to current students, check the websites, compare fees, and align your choice with your career goal and budget.
Your choice of university is one of the biggest steps in your future, so you’ve to choose wisely, plan early, and aim for success.
Good luck!
And remember to share this insightful post with your family and friends.


