Business education in Nigeria has grown rapidly over the last two decades, with several institutions now meeting international and national accreditation standards. This is important because accreditation ensures that a school’s curriculum, faculty, and facilities meet global best practices, giving students an edge in the competitive job market.
Whether you’re looking for an MBA in Nigeria, an Executive MBA, or a specialized management program, choosing an accredited school is the first step toward securing a quality education that opens doors worldwide.
In this guide, we’ll explore the top Nigerian business schools with accreditation, their programs, fees, strengths, and why they stand out in 2025.
Why Accreditation Matters in Business Education
Accreditation isn’t just a stamp on a school’s brochure — it’s proof of quality.
Here’s why it’s important:
| Reason | Why It Matters |
|---|---|
| Quality Assurance | Ensures teaching, curriculum, and facilities meet set standards. |
| Global Recognition | Your certificate is respected by employers worldwide. |
| Better Job Prospects | Employers prefer graduates from accredited schools. |
| Networking Opportunities | Accredited schools attract top industry leaders and alumni. |
Some of the top global accreditation bodies include:
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AACSB – Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business
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AMBA – Association of MBAs
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EQUIS – European Quality Improvement System
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ISO Certifications – For quality management systems
Top Accredited Business Schools in Nigeria (2025)
Below is a detailed look at Nigeria’s leading business schools:
1. Lagos Business School (LBS), Pan-Atlantic University
Location: Lekki, Lagos
Accreditations:
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AACSB – First in West Africa to achieve this.
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AMBA – Recognized for MBA excellence.
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ISO 9001:2015 – Quality management certification.
Why LBS Stands Out:
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Ranked among the top business schools in Africa by the Financial Times.
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Offers globally recognized Executive MBA, full-time MBA, and executive education programs.
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Strong alumni network including CEOs, entrepreneurs, and policymakers.
Popular Programs & Estimated Fees:
| Program | Duration | Estimated Fees (₦) |
|---|---|---|
| Full-time MBA | 18 months | ₦8M – ₦10M |
| Executive MBA | 24 months | ₦12M – ₦15M |
| Executive Education | Short courses | ₦500K – ₦2M |
2. University of Lagos Business School (ULBS)
Location: Akoka, Lagos
Accreditations: NUC, professional bodies in management and finance.
Why ULBS Stands Out:
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Affordable tuition compared to LBS.
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Offers Executive MBA, postgraduate diplomas, and specialized short courses.
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Access to UNILAG’s vast professional and research network.
Popular Programs & Estimated Fees:
| Program | Duration | Estimated Fees (₦) |
|---|---|---|
| Executive MBA | 24 months | ₦3M – ₦4M |
| PGD in Business Administration | 12 months | ₦800K – ₦1.2M |
3. Obafemi Awolowo University Business School (OAU Business School)
Location: Ile-Ife, Osun State
Accreditations: Eduniversal “Two Palmes of Excellence” for regional influence.
Why OAU Business School Stands Out:
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Strong emphasis on ethics and leadership.
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Affordable tuition with high-quality curriculum.
| Program | Duration | Estimated Fees (₦) |
|---|---|---|
| MBA | 18 – 24 months | ₦1.5M – ₦2.5M |
| Executive MBA | 24 months | ₦2M – ₦3M |
4. Ahmadu Bello University Business School (ABUBS)
Location: Zaria, Kaduna State
Accreditations: NUC, national professional councils.
Why ABUBS Stands Out:
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Over 50 years of academic excellence.
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Strong research focus and connection to Northern Nigeria’s economic needs.
| Program | Duration | Estimated Fees (₦) |
|---|---|---|
| MBA | 24 months | ₦1M – ₦1.5M |
| Executive MBA | 24 months | ₦1.5M – ₦2M |
5. Covenant University School of Business (CUSOB)
Location: Ota, Ogun State
Accreditations: NUC, global university rankings recognition.
Why CUSOB Stands Out:
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Integrates moral and leadership development into its curriculum.
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Focuses on entrepreneurship and innovation.
| Program | Duration | Estimated Fees (₦) |
|---|---|---|
| MBA | 18 – 24 months | ₦2.5M – ₦3.5M |
| MSc in Business | 24 months | ₦2M – ₦2.8M |
6. Babcock University School of Management Sciences
Location: Ilishan-Remo, Ogun State
Accreditations: NUC, professional bodies in accounting, finance, and management.
Why Babcock Stands Out:
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Strong faith-based approach to ethical leadership.
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Flexible MBA formats for working professionals.
| Program | Duration | Estimated Fees (₦) |
|---|---|---|
| MBA | 24 months | ₦3M – ₦4M |
| Executive MBA | 24 months | ₦4M – ₦5M |
7. Rome Business School Nigeria
Location: Lagos
Accreditations: European dual accreditation from Italy and the EU.
Why Rome Business School Stands Out:
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Strong focus on global exposure and online learning.
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Courses taught by international faculty.
| Program | Duration | Estimated Fees (₦) |
|---|---|---|
| International MBA | 12 months | ₦5M – ₦7M |
| Short Executive Courses | 3 – 6 months | ₦500K – ₦1.5M |
Quick Comparison Table of Top Business Schools in Nigeria (2025)
| Business School | Location | Accreditation | Estimated MBA Fees (₦) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lagos Business School | Lagos | AACSB, AMBA, ISO | 8M – 15M |
| UNILAG Business School | Lagos | NUC, Prof. bodies | 3M – 4M |
| OAU Business School | Osun | Eduniversal Palmes | 1.5M – 3M |
| ABU Business School | Kaduna | NUC, Prof. bodies | 1M – 2M |
| Covenant University | Ogun | NUC, Global ranking | 2.5M – 3.5M |
| Babcock University | Ogun | NUC, Prof. bodies | 3M – 5M |
| Rome Business School | Lagos | European Accreditation | 5M – 7M |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Which is the most prestigious business school in Nigeria?
Lagos Business School is widely regarded as the most prestigious, with AACSB and AMBA accreditation and global rankings.
2. Which is the cheapest accredited MBA program in Nigeria?
Ahmadu Bello University Business School and OAU Business School offer some of the most affordable accredited MBA programs.
3. Can I study MBA online in Nigeria?
Yes, schools like Rome Business School Nigeria and some Nigerian universities offer online or hybrid MBA options.
4. How long does it take to complete an MBA in Nigeria?
Most MBA programs last between 18 and 24 months, while Executive MBAs may take longer due to part-time study formats.
5. Does accreditation really matter for an MBA?
Yes — accreditation ensures your certificate is recognized globally and improves your employability.
Conclusion
If you’re serious about a career in management, finance, or entrepreneurship, enrolling in an accredited Nigerian business school is one of the best investments you can make.
From Lagos Business School’s world-class programs to the affordable yet high-quality options at OAU and ABU, there’s a choice for every budget and career goal. Remember — the right business school doesn’t just give you a degree; it connects you to a powerful network and equips you with skills to succeed in Nigeria’s fast-changing economy.
