Why Study Botany in Nigeria?
If you’re passionate about plants, nature, and the science behind their growth and survival, a degree in Botany could be your perfect career path. Botany, a branch of biology, focuses on plant structure, reproduction, and their critical role in sustaining life on Earth.
Nigeria’s rich biodiversity, vast farmlands, and diverse ecosystems make it an excellent place to study botany. With increasing concerns about food security, climate change, and biodiversity loss, botanists are in high demand. A degree in botany opens doors to careers in:
- Agriculture & Crop Science
- Environmental Conservation
- Research & Academia
- Pharmaceutical & Herbal Medicine
- Forestry & Ecology
As the 2025/2026 academic session approaches, this guide provides a comprehensive list of Nigerian universities offering botany, helping you make an informed choice.
List of Universities Offering Botany in Nigeria (2025/2026)
Here’s a detailed list of federal, state, and private universities where you can study botany in Nigeria:
Federal Universities
- University of Ibadan (UI), Oyo State – Premier university with top-notch research facilities.
- University of Lagos (UNILAG), Lagos State – Strong science faculty with modern labs.
- Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), Osun State – Renowned for botany and plant research.
- University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN), Enugu State – Leading institution in plant sciences.
- University of Benin (UNIBEN), Edo State – Well-equipped labs and experienced lecturers.
- Bayero University, Kano (BUK), Kano State – Strong focus on plant research in northern Nigeria.
- University of Calabar (UNICAL), Cross River State – Excellent botany program with biodiversity studies.
- University of Jos (UNIJOS), Plateau State – Popular among northern students.
- Usmanu Danfodiyo University (UDUS), Sokoto State – Focus on northern Nigeria’s plant ecosystems.
- Federal University of Agriculture, Makurdi (FUAM), Benue State – Specializes in agricultural botany.
- Federal University, Lafia (FULAFIA), Nasarawa State – Practical training in plant sciences.
- Federal University, Kashere (FUKASHERE), Gombe State – Growing science programs.
- Nnamdi Azikiwe University (UNIZIK), Anambra State – Strong botany curriculum in the southeast.
State Universities
- Ambrose Alli University (AAU), Edo State – Hands-on plant studies.
- Delta State University (DELSU), Delta State – Advances science education in the south.
- Ebonyi State University (EBSU), Ebonyi State – Prepares students for agriculture & environmental careers.
- Gombe State University (GSU), Gombe State – Caters to plant science enthusiasts.
- Imo State University (IMSU), Imo State – Ideal for southeast students.
- Lagos State University (LASU), Lagos State – Attracts students from the southwest.
- Ondo State University of Science & Technology (OSUSTECH), Ondo State – Tech-driven botany program.
Private Universities
- Achievers University, Ondo State – Focuses on industry-relevant botany.
- Bingham University, Nasarawa State – Faith-based education with science.
- Crawford University, Ogun State – Modern scientific techniques in botany.
- Joseph Ayo Babalola University (JABU), Osun State – Combines science & Christian values.
- Southwestern University, Ogun State – Includes botany in its curriculum.
- University of Mkar (UMM), Benue State – Community-focused learning.
Special Focus: Applied Botany at Bauchi State University
While most universities offer general botany, Bauchi State University (BASU), Gadau, stands out with its Applied Botany program. This specialization focuses on:
- Crop improvement & agricultural productivity
- Herbal medicine development
- Environmental conservation strategies
If you want a career directly impacting agriculture or industry, this program is an excellent choice.
How to Choose the Right University for Botany
With many options available, consider these factors before applying:
✅ Location – Choose a school near home or explore a new region.
✅ Facilities – Look for universities with modern labs, greenhouses, and fieldwork opportunities.
✅ Reputation – Top schools like UI, UNILAG, OAU, and UNN offer strong programs.
✅ Cost – Federal universities are cheaper; private ones may offer scholarships.
✅ Admission Requirements – Check JAMB cut-off marks (usually Biology, Chemistry, and Physics/Mathematics).
For the 2025/2026 session, ensure you:
✔️ Meet JAMB UTME requirements
✔️ Select Botany as your course
✔️ Prepare for post-UTME screenings (if required)
As you prepare for the 2025 UTME, use this guide to choose the best institution. Plants sustain life—by studying botany, you’re contributing to a greener, healthier future!
Start your journey today and grow your career in botany! 🌿
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