Top 10 Navy Universities in Nigeria and Their Locations (Complete Guide)

Choosing a university is one of the most important decisions in a young person’s life. For students who are interested in naval, maritime, or military education, many people often search online for “top 10 navy university in Nigeria and their location.”

If you are one of those people, you are not alone.

This guide is written to help students, parents, guardians, and researchers  clearly understand what navy and naval-related universities in Nigeria actually exist, where they are located, and what each institution is known for.

To avoid confusion, this article also explains an important truth: Nigeria does not have ten full-fledged “navy universities” in the literal sense. However, Nigeria does have recognized naval, military, and maritime institutions that collectively serve naval education and training purposes.

Understanding Navy Universities in Nigeria

Before talking about specific institutions, it is important to understand what most people mean when they use the term “navy university” in Nigeria. In everyday usage, this phrase does not always point to one exact type of school. Instead, it is a general term people use when searching for higher institutions connected to naval, maritime, or military education.

In Nigeria, a “navy university” can refer to different kinds of institutions. It may mean a military university owned and managed by the Nigerian Navy, such as a navy-established higher institution. It can also refer to a defence academy that trains naval officers, even if it also trains army and air force personnel. In some cases, people use the term to describe maritime or naval training institutions that prepare students for sea-related and naval support careers.

Additionally, many universities that offer marine, maritime, ocean, or nautical-related programs are often grouped under this label, even though they are civilian institutions. Because of this broad and flexible meaning, online searches often combine military schools, naval academies, and maritime universities into one category, which explains why many people search for a “top 10” list of navy universities in Nigeria.

1. Admiralty University of Nigeria (ADUN), Ibusa, Delta State

The Admiralty University of Nigeria is the first university established by the Nigerian Navy. It was originally called the Nigerian Navy University, Okerenkoko, before being relocated and renamed. This university is unique because it is owned and managed by the Nigerian Navy, offering programs that combine civilian academic learning with military-inspired training. Its courses focus on maritime studies, engineering, sciences, and security, preparing students for both civilian and naval careers. Both civilians and military personnel can apply, making it accessible for anyone interested in naval and maritime professions.

2. Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA), Kaduna, Kaduna State

The Nigerian Defence Academy is Nigeria’s most prestigious military training institution. While it is not a navy-exclusive school, it trains Nigerian Navy officers alongside Army and Air Force cadets. NDA offers degree programs combined with rigorous military training, producing commissioned officers ready for service in all branches of the armed forces. Because of its central role in training naval officers, it is highly relevant for anyone considering a career in the Nigerian Navy or other military services.

3. Maritime Academy of Nigeria (MAN), Oron, Akwa Ibom State

The Maritime Academy of Nigeria specializes in seafaring, marine engineering, and nautical science, training students for careers in the naval, shipping, and maritime industries. Graduates may work in the Nigerian Navy, merchant navy, or related maritime fields. Known for its practical and professional training, MAN is highly respected as one of the country’s top institutions for maritime education, providing students with the technical skills needed to excel at sea or in port-based operations.

4. Nigerian Navy Polytechnic, Lagos State

The Nigerian Navy Polytechnic focuses on technical and vocational training for both naval personnel and civilians. Students learn skills in marine engineering, electrical technology, mechanical systems, and naval technical operations, making it an essential institution for naval manpower development. While it is not a traditional university, it plays a crucial role in preparing skilled professionals for Nigeria’s naval and maritime workforce.

5. Federal University of Petroleum Resources (FUPRE), Effurun, Delta State

The Federal University of Petroleum Resources may not be a navy-specific institution, but it provides education in marine engineering, offshore operations, and maritime technology, which are highly relevant to naval and maritime careers. Students gain expertise in offshore engineering, environmental and marine safety, and oil and gas operations, all of which intersect with national security and naval interests, making FUPRE an important option for aspiring naval engineers or maritime specialists.

6. University of Lagos (UNILAG), Lagos State

The University of Lagos offers programs in marine biology, fisheries, engineering, and ocean sciences, making it a key contributor to Nigeria’s naval and maritime talent pool. Located in a major coastal city, UNILAG prepares students for careers in maritime industries and naval-related fields, combining strong academic learning with practical marine-focused studies. Its strategic location and program offerings make it an attractive choice for those interested in ocean and naval careers.

7. Rivers State University (RSU), Port Harcourt, Rivers State

Rivers State University has a reputation for strong marine engineering and nautical programs, thanks in part to its proximity to Nigeria’s maritime hubs. Students benefit from programs in marine technology, engineering, and naval studies, preparing them for careers in both the private maritime sector and the Nigerian Navy. Its coastal location gives students practical exposure to port operations and naval logistics, making it a top choice for maritime education.

8. Nigerian Navy Training School (NNTS), Onne, Rivers State

The Nigerian Navy Training School is dedicated to preparing naval personnel for service. It trains sailors and ratings, focusing on technical and operational readiness. Although it is not a university, NNTS is a core institution for the Nigerian Navy, ensuring that personnel have the skills and knowledge required for naval operations. Its programs are highly practical, emphasizing real-world naval skills and career preparation.

9. Bells University of Technology, Ota, Ogun State

Bells University of Technology is a private institution that provides education in engineering and technology programs applicable to naval and marine industries. Students can specialize in fields that intersect with marine-related engineering and maritime technology, preparing them for careers in naval engineering, shipping, or maritime research. Its strong technical focus makes it relevant for students seeking a combination of engineering education and maritime career opportunities.

10. Federal College of Fisheries and Marine Technology, Lagos State

The Federal College of Fisheries and Marine Technology supports marine technology education aligned with naval and maritime professions. Programs focus on marine operations, fisheries management, and ocean resource development, preparing students for careers in both the naval sector and civilian maritime industries. While not a university, it remains a key training ground for technical expertise needed in Nigeria’s maritime workforce.

Navy-Related Institutions in Nigeria

Institution	Location
Admiralty University of Nigeria	Ibusa, Delta State
Nigerian Defence Academy	Kaduna State
Maritime Academy of Nigeria	Oron, Akwa Ibom
Nigerian Navy Polytechnic	Lagos State
Federal University of Petroleum Resources	Delta State
University of Lagos	Lagos State
Rivers State University	Rivers State
Nigerian Navy Training School	Rivers State
Bells University of Technology	Ogun State
Federal College of Fisheries & Marine Tech	Lagos State

Important Clarification for Readers

Nigeria currently has only one full navy-owned university, which is the Admiralty University of Nigeria.
Other institutions listed here support naval, maritime, and military education in different ways.

This clarification improves accuracy and trust, which is important for students and parents.

Career Opportunities After Studying in Naval or Maritime Institutions

Graduates from these institutions may work as:

• Naval officers

• Marine engineers

• Seafarers

• Maritime administrators

• Security and defense professionals

• Offshore engineers