Are you passionate about Islamic legal studies and looking for accredited Nigerian universities offering Sharia/Islamic Law? This guide provides a detailed list of institutions, admission requirements, career prospects, and why studying Sharia Law in Nigeria is a rewarding choice.
What is Sharia/Islamic Law?
Sharia/Islamic Law is a legal framework derived from the Qur’an, Hadith, and Islamic jurisprudence. It governs personal and public matters for Muslims, including:
- Family law (marriage, divorce, inheritance)
- Contract law (business transactions)
- Criminal justice (Islamic penal codes)
In Nigeria, Sharia Law coexists with common law, making it essential for legal professionals to understand both systems.
Why Study Sharia/Islamic Law in Nigeria?
Nigeria has a large Muslim population, particularly in the northern regions, where Sharia courts operate alongside secular courts. Studying Islamic Law in Nigeria offers:
✅ Career opportunities in Sharia courts, legal advisory, and policy-making
✅ Integration of Islamic and common law for diverse legal practice
✅ High demand for Sharia lawyers in Muslim-majority regions
List of Universities Offering Sharia/Islamic Law in Nigeria (2025/2026)
Here are the accredited Nigerian universities where you can study Sharia/Islamic Law:
| University | Program Offered |
|---|---|
| Kogi State University (KSU), Anyigba | Sharia Law |
| University of Maiduguri (UNIMAID) | Sharia Law |
| Ahmadu Bello University (ABU), Zaria | Sharia Law |
1. Kogi State University (KSU), Anyigba
- Program: Sharia Law
- Faculty: Faculty of Law
- Highlights: Strong blend of Islamic jurisprudence and Nigerian legal systems
2. University of Maiduguri (UNIMAID)
- Program: Sharia Law
- Faculty: Faculty of Law
- Highlights: Renowned for Islamic legal studies and research
3. Ahmadu Bello University (ABU), Zaria
- Program: Sharia Law
- Faculty: Faculty of Law
- Highlights: Prestigious institution with comprehensive Sharia and common law training
Admission Requirements for Sharia/Islamic Law (2025/2026)
To study Sharia/Islamic Law in Nigeria, candidates must meet the following criteria:
1. O’Level Requirements
- Five (5) credits in English, Literature in English, Islamic Religious Studies (IRS), and two other relevant subjects (WAEC, NECO, or NABTEB).
2. JAMB UTME Subjects
- English Language
- Literature in English
- Government
- Islamic Religious Studies (IRS)
3. JAMB Cut-Off Mark
- Most universities require a minimum score of 180+ in JAMB UTME.
4. Post-UTME Screening
- Candidates must pass the university’s post-UTME exam and meet departmental cut-offs.
Career Opportunities in Sharia/Islamic Law
Graduates of Sharia/Islamic Law can pursue careers in:
- Sharia Courts (as lawyers or judges)
- Legal Consultancy (Islamic law advisory)
- Policy & Governance (Sharia-compliant legislation)
- Academia (teaching and research in Islamic law)
Ensure you meet the admission requirements, prepare well for JAMB UTME, and choose the best university for your Sharia Law degree.
Best of luck in your academic journey!
