French schools in Nigeria. If you are searching for that, you have more options than most people realize. From structured French language centres that prepare you for DELF, DALF, TEF and TCF, to full French-curriculum international schools in Lagos and Abuja, Nigeria has a strong French-learning network.
This guide covers the most reliable places to learn French, what they offer, where they are located, and what you should budget before enrolling.
What You Need to Know About French Schools in Nigeria
When people search for French schools in Nigeria, they usually mean one of two things: a place to learn French as a language, or a French-curriculum international school for children. Knowing the difference helps you pick the right option fast and avoid paying for the wrong thing.
French schools in Nigeria come in two main types:
- French language centres: These teach French in levels (A1 to C1/C2) for adults, students, and professionals. They are best for travel, jobs, exams, and relocation plans.
- French international schools: These teach children using the French curriculum, where French is the main classroom language and subjects follow the French education system.
Most serious French learning follows CEFR levels: Good French learning schools in Nigeria usually place you into A1, A2, B1, B2, C1, or C2. If a school can’t tell you your level or learning path, that’s a red flag.
Exams are a common reason people enroll: Many learners need certificates like DELF/DALF or TEF/TCF depending on their goal. Not every centre runs every exam all the time, so always ask about the next exam date and what they currently support.
And talking about the cost, fees depend on the type of French school. Language centres often charge per level or session, while French international schools charge full-year tuition like premium private schools, so the cost is much higher.
Knowing all these, it is wise you choose a French school in Nigeria based on whether you need conversation, exams, relocation support, or full-time schooling for a child. Below are the top schools to pick from based on your choice and location.
Top French Schools and French Language Centres in Nigeria
1. Alliance Française Lagos
Alliance Française is one of the most trusted names people mention when they talk about French schools in Nigeria, and Lagos is one of the busiest hubs. If you want a practical school to learn French in Lagos for work, travel, interviews, or relocation, this is usually the first stop. The centre typically runs beginner to advanced classes and supports learners who want to build confidence in speaking, listening, reading, and writing.
Another reason this is a strong option is flexibility: many learners combine group classes with personal practice, and some choose a branch based on traffic and proximity. For anyone searching for a French learning school in Ikeja or a French institute-style environment in Ikoyi, the two-branch structure makes it easier.
Details
- Address (Ikoyi): Mike Adenuga Centre, 9 Osborne Road, Ikoyi, Lagos
- Address (Ikeja): 58 Muiz Banire Street, Ikeja GRA, Lagos
- Phone: +234 705 228 8001 (Ikoyi), +234 705 248 8001 (Ikeja)
- Email: reception.lagos@afnigeria.org (Ikoyi), reception.ikeja@afnigeria.org (Ikeja)
- What they offer: French group classes (multiple levels), placement support for returning learners, cultural activities (varies)
- Why choose them: Strong track record, structured learning path, reputable brand for French learning in Nigeria
- Requirements: Basic registration, payment confirmation, placement test if you are not a complete beginner, valid ID is often requested for admin records
- Fees: Varies by session and level (ask the branch reception for the current session price)
- Official website: afnigeria.org/lagos
2. Lycée Français Louis Pasteur de Lagos
If your goal is not just French lessons but a full French-style education, LFLP is one of the most recognized French international schools people include when listing French schools in Nigeria. It runs the French curriculum from early years through senior school, which makes it ideal for families who want continuity, international exposure, and a strong academic structure.
This is also a great fit if you want a multilingual environment where French is the core language while students still interact with other languages in school life. For parents comparing private education options, this is often placed in the premium category because of its curriculum model and international positioning.
Details
- Address: 16 Younis Bashorun Street, Victoria Island Annex, Lagos (PO Box 72172)
- Phone: +234 707 135 7661, +234 1 270 0545/46
- Email: lyceefrancais@lflp-lagos.com
- What they offer: Full French curriculum (nursery to terminale), school admissions support, structured school environment
- Why choose them: French curriculum pathway, strong international reputation, full-school experience rather than short courses
- Requirements: Application form, prior school records (where applicable), child’s documents (birth certificate/passport), placement or assessment may apply based on class level
- Fees (2025/2026 examples):
- First registration (new student): €2,000 (general tariff)
- Annual tuition (general fees): Nursery €5,902; Primary €7,377; Grade 7–10 €8,854; Grade 11–13 €10,599
- Company fee schedule is higher (for corporate-sponsored tuition)
- Official website: lflp-lagos.com
3. Institut Français du Nigéria (IFN Abuja)
For learners searching for a French language school in Abuja, IFN is one of the most important names to know. It is widely associated with language learning, cultural programming, and official certification paths. If you need French for career reasons, Francophone travel, or exam-focused goals, it offers a structured environment that feels more like a professional language centre than a casual tutorial setup.
It is also a strong pick if you want a serious French-learning routine in Abuja, because many learners combine classes with language labs, cultural events, and a community of other learners. When people say “French institute in Nigeria,” this is often what they mean.
Details
- Address: 52 Libreville Crescent, Wuse 2, Abuja
- Phone: 0 810 060 0456
- What they offer: Collective French courses, language centre programs, exams and certifications (program dependent), cultural activities
- Why choose them: Abuja’s flagship French institute-style environment, strong ecosystem for learning and certification
- Requirements: Registration, level assessment if you are not a beginner, passport photo/ID may be requested for certificates or exam registration
- Fees: Varies by session type (standard, intensive, and other formats may differ)
- Official website: institutfr-nigeria.org
4. Lycée Français Marcel-Pagnol d’Abuja (LFMPA Abuja)
LFMPA is a major option for families specifically seeking French international schooling in Abuja. It is not just a place for French lessons; it is built around the French educational model for children and teenagers. If you want an environment where French is the academic foundation and school life is structured around French curriculum levels, this is one of the most direct paths available in Nigeria.
For parents comparing premium schools, this often ranks high because it offers a complete schooling route rather than short courses. It also becomes relevant when families relocate or plan future international admissions, because the curriculum structure can align with French-style academic progression.
Details
- Address: Durumi District, after Prince and Princess Estate II, Abuja
- Phone: +234 916 441 72 21
- Email: secretariat.efmpa@lfmpabuja.com
- What they offer: Full French curriculum schooling (from early years through lycée level)
- Why choose them: Full-school pathway for children, French curriculum structure, Abuja-based
- Requirements: Admission application, student documents (birth certificate/passport), school records, assessment/placement where required
- Fees (2025/2026 examples):
- First registration fee (new student): ₦5,000,000
- Annual tuition ranges by level (examples): ₦3,150,000 (TPS) up to ₦8,700,000 (Lycée)
- Official website: lfmpabuja.com
5. Alliance Française Port Harcourt
If you want a school of French in Port Harcourt with both group learning and the possibility of private tutoring, this is one of the most visible and consistently referenced centres. It tends to attract professionals, students, and relocation-minded learners who want French for jobs, travel, or personal development. The centre also commonly runs weekend options and focused programs depending on the season.
A big advantage is flexibility. People who cannot fit regular weekday classes sometimes choose private lessons or special schedules. That makes it a strong contender for anyone searching for a French learning school in Rivers State or a practical school to learn French in Port Harcourt.
Details
- Address: 20 Herbert Macaulay Street, Amadi Flats, Old GRA, Port Harcourt, Rivers State
- Phone: +234 913 030 3620
- Email: reception.phc@af-nigeria.org
- What they offer: French language courses, private lessons (availability varies), cultural programming (varies)
- Why choose them: Active learning community, options for private lessons, trusted Alliance Française brand
- Requirements: Registration, placement test if you have prior French knowledge, payment confirmation
- Fees: Varies by program. Example posted rates show private lessons priced per hour (confirm current rates with reception)
- Official website: af-nigeria.org
6. Alliance Française Ibadan
For learners searching for French schools in Nigeria outside Lagos and Abuja, Ibadan is a practical option, especially for Oyo State residents who want structured learning without traveling. It is also useful for learners who plan to write French exams and want guidance on preparation because the centre highlights exams and related support as part of its role.
If you want a reliable French language school in Ibadan, this is usually the first recommendation. Many learners start from beginner level and steadily move up through structured class levels, while people with prior experience often begin with a placement test.
Details
- Address: 7th Day Adventist Road, beside Magistrate Court, Iyaganku, Ibadan, Oyo State
- Phone/WhatsApp: +234 703 204 3178
- Email: ibadan@afnigeria.org
- What they offer: French classes (multiple levels), exam pathways and preparation support (centre dependent)
- Why choose them: Reputable network, structured curriculum style, exams and certification direction
- Requirements: Registration, placement test for non-beginners, payment confirmation
- Fees: Varies by session and level
- Official website: sites.google.com/view/af-ibadan
7. Alliance Française Enugu
Enugu is another important hub in the national map of French schools in Nigeria, and this centre stands out because it is not only about classroom learning. It tends to combine language learning with cultural programming, which helps learners practice French in more real-life contexts.
For many learners, that “community feel” makes it easier to stay consistent and improve speaking confidence. If you are searching for a French language school in Enugu or you want a reliable school to learn French in Enugu State, this is one of the most direct options.
Details
- Address: 40 Neni Street, Ogui New Layout, Enugu, Enugu State
- Phone: +234 803 714 3439
- Email: reception@afenugu.org
- What they offer: French classes, cultural events, community learning environment
- Why choose them: Structured levels, active centre community, credible location for French learning in Enugu
- Requirements: Registration, placement test if needed, payment confirmation
- Fees: Varies by intake and level
- Official website: afenugu.org
8. Alliance Française Kano
For Northern Nigeria, Kano is one of the places many learners look to when searching for French schools in Nigeria. This centre is a strong option for learners in Kano and nearby states who want structured French classes and cultural programming in a reputable setting.
It is particularly helpful if you want a serious learning environment without needing to travel to Abuja or Lagos. If your search looks like “French learning school in Kano” or “school of French in Kano,” this is one of the most credible listings.
Details
- Address: 14 Yandutse Road, Nassarawa GRA, Kano
- Phone: +234 703 778 0122, +234 816 607 1051
- Email: info@afkano.org
- What they offer: French classes, learning support, cultural activities (varies)
- Why choose them: Reliable centre in the North, structured class levels, credible contact channels
- Requirements: Registration, placement test if needed, payment confirmation
- Fees: Varies by session and level
- Official website: afkano.org
9. Alliance Française Ilorin
If you are based in Kwara State and searching for French schools in Nigeria that are closer than Lagos or Abuja, Ilorin is a smart option. The centre’s location makes it accessible for students and professionals who want French for travel, work, or personal growth.
This also works well for learners who want steady progress through structured levels, because most Alliance Française centres follow a level progression approach even when class formats differ.
Details
- Address: Opposite Ministry of Agriculture, Old Jebba Road, GSS Roundabout, Ilorin, Kwara State
- Phone: 07061059391, 09158526303
- What they offer: French language courses, structured learning levels
- Why choose them: Central access in Ilorin, reputable brand, practical learning pathway
- Requirements: Registration, placement test if needed, payment confirmation
- Fees: Varies by session and level
- Official website: (centre social pages commonly share updates; confirm from reception for the current official page)
10. Alliance Française Owerri
Owerri is another important location in the national network of French schools in Nigeria, especially for learners across Imo State and nearby states. The centre is popular among learners who want a structured class environment, but also want the social motivation that comes with learning in a community.
If you are searching for a French language school in Owerri or you want a reliable school to learn French in Imo State, this is one of the best-known choices.
Details
- Address: 1 Shell Camp Road, off Orlu Road, Owerri, Imo State
- Phone: 08034056198
- WhatsApp: 09014442415
- What they offer: French classes (levels vary by intake), community learning
- Why choose them: Recognized centre in the South East, accessible location for Owerri learners
- Requirements: Registration, placement test if needed, payment confirmation
- Fees: Varies by session and level
- Official website: (confirm current official page through the centre’s admin contacts)
11. Alliance Française Jos
Jos is often mentioned when people talk about the wider footprint of French schools in Nigeria, particularly for Plateau State learners. While public listings vary, the centre is commonly described as being around the Standard Building area, and it is referenced as a French cultural and language learning option.
If you are planning to register here, the best approach is to call first, confirm the exact gate and directions, then visit with a clear schedule.
Details
- Address: French Cultural Center, opposite Standard Building, Jos, Plateau State (confirm by phone before visiting)
- Phone: 08161783396 (confirm current line)
- What they offer: French learning programs and cultural centre activities (varies)
- Why choose them: Local access for Plateau learners without traveling out of state
- Requirements: Registration, placement test if needed, payment confirmation
- Fees: Varies by session and level
- Official website: (confirm from centre admin)
12. Nigeria French Language Village (Badagry, Lagos State)
The French Language Village is a unique option among French schools in Nigeria because it is commonly associated with immersion-style learning and institutional programs. Some learners prefer this format because it pushes you to practice French more intensively than a casual weekly schedule.
If your goal is deep immersion, academic collaboration, or a more structured program experience tied to language development, this is worth exploring. Because offerings can differ depending on the time of year, call ahead and ask what programs are open to the public at the moment.
Details
- Address: Badagry, Lagos State (confirm the exact campus gate directions by phone before visiting)
- Phone: +234 1 773 3506 (additional lines may be available through their admin office)
- What they offer: Program-based French learning, immersion-style learning formats (availability varies)
- Why choose them: Immersion approach, structured program options
- Requirements: Program-specific (application forms and documentation depend on the program)
- Fees: Program-based
- Official website: frenchvillage.edu.ng
Comparison of the Best French Schools in Nigeria
| School / Centre | City | Best For | Fees (What to Expect) | Exams / Certificates |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alliance Française Lagos (Ikoyi + Ikeja) | Lagos | Adults, teens, beginners to advanced learners | Varies by session and level | DELF/DALF prep and related exams (varies by centre) |
| Lycée Français Louis Pasteur de Lagos (LFLP) | Lagos | Full French curriculum (ages 2–18) | From €5,902 to €10,599 yearly (general fees) | French curriculum pathway |
| Institut Français du Nigéria (IFN) | Abuja | French courses, certifications, cultural centre | Varies by session | DELF, DALF, TCF, etc (program dependent) |
| Lycée Français Marcel-Pagnol d’Abuja (LFMPA) | Abuja | Full French curriculum (early years to lycée) | Annual: about ₦3.15m to ₦8.7m, plus registration | French curriculum pathway |
| Alliance Française Port Harcourt | Port Harcourt | French courses + private lessons | Example: private lessons can be priced per hour | Language exams support varies |
| Alliance Française Ibadan | Ibadan | French classes + exams prep | Varies by session | DELF/DALF/TEF prep noted by centre |
| Alliance Française Enugu | Enugu | French classes + cultural activities | Varies by session | Exams and prep vary |
| Alliance Française Kano | Kano | French learning and cultural centre | Varies by session | Exams and prep vary |
| Alliance Française Ilorin | Ilorin | French classes (Kwara and nearby) | Varies by session | Exams and prep vary |
| Alliance Française Owerri | Owerri | French classes + community learning | Varies by session | Exams and prep vary |
| Alliance Française Jos | Jos | French classes (Plateau and nearby) | Varies by session | Exams and prep vary |
| Nigeria French Language Village | Badagry | Immersion-style learning and institutional programs | Varies (program-based) | Program dependent |
How to Apply to French Schools in Nigeria
Applying to French schools in Nigeria depends on whether you are enrolling in a language centre (short courses) or an international school (full curriculum).
For French language centres (Alliance Française and Institut Français)
- Contact the reception by phone or email to confirm the next intake date.
- If you have learned French before, request a placement test so you join the right level.
- Complete registration, submit any requested ID details, and make payment.
- Collect your schedule and start date, then confirm whether books or materials are included.
For French international schools (LFLP Lagos and LFMPA Abuja)
- Request the admissions pack or application form.
- Prepare student documents (birth certificate, passport, immunization records where applicable).
- Submit previous school reports and transfer documents if the child is not starting from the entry level.
- Attend assessment or interview if required.
- Pay registration and tuition according to the school’s schedule.
Fees and What You Should Budget
One reason people compare French schools in Nigeria carefully is budget. Fees vary widely depending on the type of school.
- Premium French international schools: These are usually the most expensive because tuition covers full schooling, facilities, and curriculum delivery. For example, LFLP Lagos publishes annual fees in euros, while LFMPA Abuja publishes annual fees in naira.
- French language centres: These typically charge per session, per level, or per package. Intensive formats usually cost more than standard formats. Private lessons cost more per hour than group classes.
If you are budgeting for relocation goals (study or immigration), remember to include exam registration costs for certifications like DELF, DALF, TEF, or TCF where needed.
Requirements and Documents You Will Likely Need
Even though requirements differ, most French schools in Nigeria commonly ask for the following:
- Full name, phone number, email, and basic registration details
- Passport photograph (often requested for student files and certificates)
- Valid ID (especially for exam registration)
- Placement test result if you are not a beginner
- Proof of payment
For international French schools, you should also expect:
- Child’s birth certificate or passport bio-data page
- Previous school reports/transcripts
- Transfer certificate (if moving from another school)
- Any admissions assessment or interview requirements
FAQs About French Schools in Nigeria
Can I learn French in Nigeria and get an internationally recognized certificate?
Yes. Many reputable centres connected to the French-learning ecosystem support recognized certifications and preparation pathways. Your best route is to enroll in a structured French language school in Nigeria and follow their level progression, then register for the exam that fits your goal.
What is the best French language school in Lagos?
It depends on your goal. If you want flexible French lessons for adults, Alliance Française Lagos is a common first choice. If you want full French curriculum schooling for a child, Lycée Français Louis Pasteur de Lagos is the more direct fit.
How long does it take to become fluent in French?
That depends on your consistency, learning plan, and how much you practice speaking. Many learners who attend structured classes and practice weekly can reach conversational confidence in months, while full fluency typically takes longer with sustained practice.
Are French classes in Abuja only available at the Institut Français?
No. IFN is a major option, but Abuja also has French-curriculum schooling through Lycée Français Marcel-Pagnol. The best choice depends on whether you want language courses or full-time schooling.
Do French schools in Nigeria offer weekend classes?
Some French language centres run weekend classes or special formats depending on the session and demand. The best step is to call the branch in your city and ask for the current timetable.
Is Alliance Française the same as Institut Français?
They are not the same, even though both promote French language and culture. Alliance Française centres are a global network of local non-profit associations, while Institut Français is part of France’s official cultural institute network. In practice, both can be useful depending on your city and program.
Which French exam should I take for studying or moving abroad?
It depends on the destination and purpose. Some countries and institutions request DELF or DALF, while others accept TCF or TEF. Always verify what the embassy, school, or immigration route requires, then choose the exam that matches it.
Can children attend a French international school in Nigeria without being French?
In many cases, yes. French international schools often accept students of different nationalities, but admission requirements can include language readiness, placement, and documentation. Always confirm the policy directly with the school admissions office.
Conclusion
If you want reliable French schools in Nigeria, start by choosing based on your city, your goal (conversation, exam, relocation, or full-time schooling), and your budget. Lagos and Abuja offer the widest range, but Port Harcourt, Ibadan, Enugu, Kano and other cities also provide strong options through reputable French learning centres.
Once you pick a centre, book a placement test if you are not a beginner, confirm the next intake date, and commit to consistent practice.