Are you planning to study a commercial course in Nigeria for the 2025/2026 academic session? You’re in the right place. Many universities across the country offer business and finance-related programs that prepare students for rewarding careers in accounting, banking, marketing, entrepreneurship, and public administration.
This guide provides:
- A list of universities offering commercial courses (federal, state, and private).
- Admission requirements for UTME and Direct Entry candidates.
- Key factors to consider when choosing the right university.
Contents
- What Are Commercial Courses?
- Universities Offering Commercial Courses in Nigeria (2025/2026)
- Federal Universities
- State Universities
- Private Universities
- Admission Requirements for Commercial Courses in Nigeria
- 1. JAMB Subject Combination
- 2. O’Level Requirements (WAEC/NECO/NABTEB)
- 3. Direct Entry Requirements
- Factors to Consider When Choosing a University
What Are Commercial Courses?
Commercial courses focus on business, finance, and management. They prepare students for roles in banking, entrepreneurship, public service, and corporate organizations. Some of the most popular commercial courses in Nigeria include:
- Accounting
- Banking and Finance
- Business Administration
- Economics
- Insurance
- Marketing
- Mass Communication
- Public Administration
- Entrepreneurship
- Human Resource Management
Universities Offering Commercial Courses in Nigeria (2025/2026)
Federal Universities
- University of Lagos (UNILAG) – Strong reputation in Accounting, Business Administration, and Economics.
- University of Ibadan (UI) – Noted for research-driven business and economics programs.
- Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU) – Offers a wide range of business and management courses.
- Ahmadu Bello University (ABU), Zaria – Well-established Faculty of Administration and Economics.
- University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN) – Renowned for Business Administration and Mass Communication.
- University of Benin (UNIBEN) – Strong track record in Accounting and Banking & Finance.
- Federal University of Technology, Akure (FUTA) – Offers Management and Entrepreneurship.
- Bayero University, Kano (BUK) – Reputable for business education in Northern Nigeria.
- Nnamdi Azikiwe University (UNIZIK) – Known for vibrant commercial and management programs.
- Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta (FUNAAB) – Specializes in Agribusiness.
State Universities
- Lagos State University (LASU) – Popular choice for Business Administration and Marketing.
- Rivers State University (RSU) – Offers strong business and finance-related programs.
- Olabisi Onabanjo University (OOU), Ogun State
- Ekiti State University (EKSU)
- Ambrose Alli University (AAU), Edo State
- Delta State University (DELSU)
- Abia State University (ABSU)
- Benue State University (BSU)
- Kaduna State University (KASU)
- Ebonyi State University (EBSU)
Private Universities
- Covenant University, Ota – Highly rated for Accounting, Marketing, and Entrepreneurship.
- Babcock University, Ogun State – Noted for Business Administration and Economics.
- Afe Babalola University, Ado-Ekiti (ABUAD)
- Bowen University, Iwo
- Caleb University, Lagos
- Lead City University, Ibadan
- Madonna University, Okija
- Igbinedion University, Okada
- Nile University, Abuja
- Baze University, Abuja
Admission Requirements for Commercial Courses in Nigeria
1. JAMB Subject Combination
Most commercial courses require the following UTME subjects:
- English Language (Compulsory)
- Mathematics (Compulsory for Accounting, Banking & Finance, Business Administration)
- Economics
- One other relevant subject (Commerce, Government, or Financial Accounting)
2. O’Level Requirements (WAEC/NECO/NABTEB)
Five (5) credit passes in:
- English Language
- Mathematics
- Economics
- Commerce / Accounting / Government
- One other relevant subject
3. Direct Entry Requirements
For Direct Entry admission:
- OND, HND, NCE, or A-Level in relevant fields.
- Minimum of Upper Credit (for polytechnic students).
Factors to Consider When Choosing a University
- Accreditation – Confirm that the university and your chosen course are accredited by the National Universities Commission (NUC).
- Reputation – Universities like UNILAG, UNN, and Covenant University have strong reputations in business and finance.
- Tuition Fees – Private universities usually cost more than federal and state institutions.
- Career Opportunities – Schools with strong industry links provide better internship and job prospects.
- Location & Environment – Consider cities like Lagos, Abuja, or Ibadan for broader career opportunities.
Nigeria offers a wide range of options for students interested in commercial courses. Whether you choose a federal, state, or private university, make sure to verify accreditation, review admission requirements, and consider career prospects before applying.
Studying a commercial course can open doors to careers in banking, accounting, marketing, entrepreneurship, and public service. Choose wisely, and you’ll set yourself up for success.
💡 Tip: Always check the official university website for the latest admission details.