Rivers State, home to Nigeria’s oil and gas capital Port Harcourt, is one of the most commercially vibrant states in the country. Beyond its economic strength, the state also hosts a growing number of NUC-accredited private institutions offering world-class education. If you are searching for every private university in rivers state and their fees, this guide gives you a complete and up-to-date breakdown for the 2026/2027 academic session.
Private universities in Rivers State provide stable academic calendars, smaller class sizes, modern infrastructure, and faster graduation timelines compared to most public institutions. Whether you are a JAMB candidate, a parent exploring options, or a working professional considering further education, this detailed guide on private university in rivers state and their fees covers everything you need — from tuition structures and course offerings to admission requirements and campus facilities.
Rivers State currently has three NUC-accredited private universities, each targeting a different student profile and budget. From an ultra-premium institution charging over ₦9 million per session to an affordable faith-based university under ₦700,000, the range of options ensures that every student can find an institution that matches their academic goals and financial capacity.
Quick Overview: All Private Universities in Rivers State
Below is a summary table showing every private university in rivers state and their fees for the 2026/2027 session.
| S/N | University | Location | Estimated Fees (Per Session) |
| 1 | Rhema University | Obeama-Asa, Rivers | ₦350,000 – ₦675,000 |
| 2 | PAMO University of Medical Sciences | Port Harcourt, Rivers | ₦2,345,000 – ₦5,435,000 |
| 3 | Wigwe University | Isiokpo, Rivers | ₦9,600,000 – ₦11,998,800 |
Fees above are estimated ranges and vary by programme, student level, and additional charges like acceptance fees, accommodation, and laboratory fees. Always confirm current fees directly on each university’s official website before making any payments.
1. Rhema University
Rhema University is the most affordable entry on the private university in rivers state and their fees list. Founded in 2009, Rhema is a Christian faith-based institution located in Obeama-Asa, Asa Local Government Area of Rivers State. The university holds full NUC accreditation and operates with a strong emphasis on moral values, academic excellence, and character development.
School Fees Breakdown
| Programme/Faculty | Estimated Fees Per Session |
| Arts, Social Sciences, Management | ₦350,000 – ₦450,000 |
| Natural Sciences, Computer Science | ₦450,000 – ₦600,000 |
| Professional Courses (Law, etc.) | ₦550,000 – ₦675,000 |
| Acceptance Fee | ₦68,000 (one-time) |
| Accommodation | ₦50,000 – ₦100,000 |
Rhema University offers programmes in Social Sciences, Management Sciences, Natural Sciences, Arts, and Education. The university’s affordable fee structure makes it attractive to families across the South-South and Southeast regions. Students also benefit from a serene campus environment, personalized academic attention due to small class sizes, and a strong support system that emphasizes both intellectual and spiritual growth.
The university provides hostel accommodation on campus with separate blocks for male and female students. Rhema’s location near Port Harcourt means students enjoy easy access to the city’s commercial and social amenities while studying in a quieter, distraction-free setting.
2. PAMO University of Medical Sciences
PAMO University of Medical Sciences is the mid-range option among private university in rivers state and their fees. Established in 2017, PAMO holds the distinction of being Nigeria’s first private university dedicated exclusively to medical and health sciences education. Located along the Port Harcourt–Aba Expressway in Elelenwo, the university is named after its founding vision of “Peace, Academics, Morality, and Obedience.”
School Fees Breakdown
| Programme | Estimated Fees Per Session |
| Medicine and Surgery (MBBS) | ₦4,500,000 – ₦5,435,000 |
| Nursing Science | ₦2,345,000 – ₦3,000,000 |
| Medical Lab. Science | ₦2,500,000 – ₦3,200,000 |
| Public Health | ₦2,345,000 – ₦2,800,000 |
| Acceptance Fee | ₦200,000 (one-time) |
PAMO University is the specialist choice on the private university in rivers state and their fees list. Every programme offered at PAMO falls within the medical and health sciences field, making it ideal for students with a clear ambition in healthcare. The university operates a teaching hospital that provides students with hands-on clinical training from their early years.
Despite the higher fees compared to Rhema, PAMO delivers focused medical education with modern simulation laboratories, anatomy labs, and clinical facilities that rival some of the best in West Africa. The university also maintains strong partnerships with international medical institutions, offering students exposure to global best practices in healthcare delivery.
3. Wigwe University
Wigwe University is the premium institution on the private university in rivers state and their fees list and currently ranks as the most expensive university in Nigeria. Founded by the late Dr. Herbert Wigwe, former CEO of Access Bank, the university opened its doors in August 2024 in Isiokpo, Ikwerre Local Government Area of Rivers State.
School Fees Breakdown
| College/Programme | Estimated Fees Per Session |
| College of Arts | ₦9,600,000 – ₦10,500,000 |
| College of Mgt. & Social Sciences | ₦9,800,000 – ₦10,800,000 |
| College of Science & Computing | ₦10,500,000 – ₦11,500,000 |
| College of Engineering | ₦11,000,000 – ₦11,998,800 |
| Accommodation | ₦2,500,000 – ₦3,800,000 |
Wigwe University offers programmes across four colleges: Arts, Management and Social Sciences, Science and Computing, and Engineering. The fees include tuition, health insurance, books, library access, professional memberships, and student activity charges. Accommodation is billed separately and ranges from ₦2.5 million to ₦3.8 million depending on room type.
The university positions itself as Africa’s gateway to entrepreneurship, technology, and innovation. Every programme integrates entrepreneurial thinking into the curriculum, regardless of the discipline. Wigwe’s campus features world-class infrastructure including modern lecture theatres, innovation hubs, sports facilities, and a sustainability-focused landscape design. The university also offers merit-based scholarships for outstanding students, requiring a minimum JAMB score of 180 and selection of Wigwe as first choice.
Comparing the Three Universities
When reviewing every private university in rivers state and their fees, the right choice depends on your budget, career goals, and preferred learning environment.
Rhema University is the most affordable option, ideal for students seeking a solid private education without the financial weight of premium institutions. PAMO University of Medical Sciences is the best choice for students committed to healthcare careers, offering specialized medical training with modern clinical facilities. Wigwe University targets families seeking an ultra-premium, internationally oriented education with a strong entrepreneurship focus.
All three universities benefit from their location in Rivers State, one of Nigeria’s wealthiest and most cosmopolitan states. Port Harcourt offers a lower cost of living compared to Lagos, vibrant cultural life, strong industry connections particularly in oil and gas, and excellent transportation links. Students at these institutions gain access to internship opportunities with multinational companies, a thriving tech ecosystem, and a supportive academic community.
Admission Requirements
Admission requirements are broadly consistent across each private university in rivers state and their fees:
- JAMB (UTME): Minimum score of 140–180 depending on the institution. Wigwe University requires at least 180, while Rhema accepts from 140. Select your preferred university as first choice during JAMB registration.
- O’Level Credits: Five credits including English Language and Mathematics at not more than two sittings (WAEC/NECO). PAMO requires Biology and Chemistry for all medical programmes.
- Post-UTME Screening: Each university conducts its own screening exercise, which may include aptitude tests, interviews, or document verification.
- Direct Entry: Candidates with ND, NCE, IJMB, or A’Level qualifications can apply through JAMB Direct Entry for admission into 200 level.
How to Choose the Right University
Selecting from the private university in rivers state and their fees requires careful consideration of these factors:
- Budget: Rhema University offers fees under ₦700,000. PAMO ranges from ₦2.3 million to ₦5.4 million. Wigwe starts at ₦9.6 million. Choose based on what your family can sustain for 4–6 years.
- Career Path: If you want Medicine or Nursing, PAMO is the specialist choice. For Engineering or Computing, Wigwe offers cutting-edge programmes. For general Arts, Sciences, or Management, Rhema provides solid, affordable options.
- Facilities: Visit each campus to inspect laboratories, hostels, libraries, and recreational areas before committing.
- Scholarships: Wigwe offers merit-based scholarships. Rhema and PAMO may offer fee reduction for exceptional candidates. Confirm availability directly with each institution.
- Payment Plans: Most private universities in Rivers State allow instalment payments. Confirm each institution’s specific payment schedule with the bursary department.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How many private universities are in Rivers State?
Rivers State currently has three NUC-accredited private universities: Rhema University in Obeama-Asa, PAMO University of Medical Sciences in Port Harcourt, and Wigwe University in Isiokpo. Each private university in rivers state and their fees targets a different budget and academic focus.
Which is the cheapest private university in Rivers State?
Rhema University is the most affordable, with fees ranging from ₦350,000 to ₦675,000 per session depending on the programme. The acceptance fee is ₦68,000. This makes Rhema accessible to a wide range of families seeking quality private education in the South-South region.
Is Wigwe University worth the cost?
Wigwe University is the most expensive private university in rivers state and their fees, with tuition starting at ₦9.6 million. However, the institution offers world-class infrastructure, an entrepreneurship-focused curriculum, international faculty, and merit-based scholarships. It targets families seeking a globally competitive education.
Does PAMO University offer only medical courses?
Yes. PAMO University of Medical Sciences focuses exclusively on medical and health sciences programmes including Medicine and Surgery, Nursing Science, Medical Laboratory Science, and Public Health. It is the only private medical university in Nigeria.
Can I pay fees in instalments?
Yes. Most institutions on the private university in rivers state and their fees list allow flexible payment plans. Contact each university’s bursary or finance department for specific instalment schedules, deadlines, and any additional charges that may apply.
What is the JAMB cut-off for private universities in Rivers State?
Cut-off marks vary. Rhema University accepts JAMB scores from 140, PAMO requires 150–160 for most programmes, and Wigwe University sets a higher benchmark of 180. Each private university in rivers state and their fees also conducts post-UTME screening as part of the admission process.
Conclusion
Rivers State offers three distinct private university options, each catering to a different budget and career ambition. Rhema University provides affordable, faith-based education under ₦700,000 per session. PAMO University of Medical Sciences delivers specialized healthcare training for future doctors and nurses. Wigwe University offers a premium, internationally oriented experience with tuition exceeding ₦9 million.
Use the fee breakdowns and comparisons in this guide to identify the institution that best fits your academic goals and financial situation. Visit each university’s official website to confirm current fees, review accredited courses, and begin your application. The right choice today shapes your entire career trajectory — take the time to choose wisely and apply early.