Borno State, located in Nigeria’s North-East, is not just known for its history and culture but also for its growing educational opportunities. The state is home to a mix of federal, state, and private universities that cater to diverse academic interests ranging from medicine and engineering to education and the humanities.

If you’re considering studying in Borno, here’s a comprehensive guide to all the universities in the state, their unique strengths, and what makes each institution stand out.

Federal Universities in Borno State

1. University of Maiduguri (UNIMAID)

• Year Established: 1975

• Location: Maiduguri

• Overview: One of Nigeria’s largest universities, UNIMAID offers programs across Medicine, Law, Engineering, Pharmacy, Veterinary Science, Agriculture, Social Sciences, and Humanities.

• Highlight: It is home to the prestigious University of Maiduguri Teaching Hospital (UMTH) and several research institutes focusing on conflict resolution, public health, and desertification.

• Why Choose UNIMAID? It’s a hub of academic excellence in the North-East and attracts students nationwide.

   

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2. Nigerian Army University, Biu (NAUB)

• Year Established: 2018

• Location: Biu

• Overview: A specialized university run by the Nigerian Army but open to civilians. It combines military discipline with civilian academic freedom.

• Courses: Science, Technology, Engineering, Humanities, and Social Sciences.

• Highlight: NAUB is regarded as Africa’s first Green University, with a strong emphasis on technology, security studies, and environmental science.

• Why Choose NAUB? Perfect for students interested in leadership, defense-related fields, and cutting-edge STEM programs.

State University in Borno State

1. Borno State University (BOSU) – Renamed Kashim Ibrahim University in 2025

• Year Established: 2016

• Location: Maiduguri

• Overview: BOSU was created to provide affordable education for indigenes and non-indigenes. It offers programs in Science, Arts, Social Sciences, Management, Agriculture, and Education.

• Recent Development: The university continues to expand its facilities, including Senate buildings, lecture halls, and staff quarters.

• Why Choose BOSU? A young but fast-growing institution focused on accessibility and quality education at the state level.

Private University in Borno State

1. Al-Ansar University, Maiduguri

• Year Established: 2020

• Location: Maiduguri

• Overview: The first private university in Borno State, approved by the NUC in 2020. It offers courses in ICT, Sciences, Social & Management Sciences, Arts, and Health Sciences.

• Highlight: Modern facilities, smaller class sizes, and strong emphasis on innovation.

• Why Choose Al-Ansar? Ideal for students looking for a private, faith-inspired institution with personalized academic experiences.

Frequently Asked Questions About Universities in Borno State

1. How many universities are in Borno State?

Borno State has four universities in total:

• Two federal universities – University of Maiduguri (UNIMAID) and Nigerian Army University, Biu (NAUB).

• One state university – Borno State University (BOSU).

• One private university – Al-Ansar University, Maiduguri.

2. What is the oldest university in Borno State?

The University of Maiduguri (UNIMAID), established in 1975, is the oldest and most prominent university in Borno State.

3. Which is the best university in Borno State?

The University of Maiduguri (UNIMAID) is widely regarded as the best due to its size, range of courses, research facilities, and teaching hospital. However, NAUB is also becoming popular for its innovation and discipline.

4. Does Borno State have a private university?

Yes. Al-Ansar University, Maiduguri, established in 2020, is the first and only private university in Borno State.

5. What courses are offered at the Nigerian Army University, Biu (NAUB)?

NAUB offers programs in Sciences, Technology, Engineering, Environmental Studies, Arts, Social Sciences, and Management Sciences, with an emphasis on security and defense studies.

6. What is the cut-off mark for universities in Borno State?

Generally, the UTME cut-off mark for most universities in Borno State is 150–170, depending on the institution and course of study. Competitive courses like Medicine, Law, Nursing, and Engineering may require 200 and above.

Final Thoughts

Borno State’s higher education system may be relatively young compared to states like Lagos or Oyo, but it’s growing rapidly.

• UNIMAID remains the academic giant of the North-East, offering nearly all fields of study.

• NAUB is carving a niche as a tech-driven, military-inspired university with global relevance.

• BOSU is bridging the gap for affordable education at the state level.

• Al-Ansar University represents the future of private higher education in the region.