The University of Abuja was established in January 1988 out of the need to provide an institution of higher learning within Abuja, the new Federal Capital,  whose objectives will be in stride with the ideals that informed the conception of the city.  The  matriculation of pioneer students of the University in 1990 marked the beginning of its academic work in its mini campus, Gwagwalada. In the same year, the University was allocated an expanse of land covering over 11,824 hectares along Abuja-Airport Road for the development of its main campus.While development of structures continued to grow on the main campus of the University,  it has continued to run  its regular programmes in the mini campus and its distance learning programmes in Area 3 Garki.To the Glory of God, most of the University’s Faculties and the Centre for Distance Learning  have  now relocated to the permanent site of the University, which is located less than  ten minutes drive  from the Nnamdi Azikwe International Airport. 

The University provides educational opportunities to all persons without distinction of race, gender, or political convictions, thus it is regarded as the University for National Unity, located in the centre of unity.  The University of Abuja has abundant potential because of its favoured location in the heart of the country.