The Nigerian Institute of Leather and Science Technology (NILEST), Zaria is a Federal Government research, training and technology institution located in Samaru, Zaria, Kaduna State, North-West Nigeria. The institute specialises in leather technology, leather products development, polymer technology, science laboratory technology, computer science and other applied science-based programmes. It operates under the supervision of the Federal Ministry of Science and Technology and plays an important role in developing skilled manpower for Nigeria’s leather and allied industries.
Established in 1964, NILEST has grown from a leather research centre into a specialised tertiary institution offering National Diploma (ND), Higher National Diploma (HND), professional training and research programmes. The institute combines academic training with industrial research, product development and entrepreneurship, particularly in leather processing, footwear production and related technologies.
NILEST is recognised as one of Nigeria’s leading institutions for leather science and technology education. Through its academic programmes and research activities, the institute contributes to the development of Nigeria’s leather value chain by training professionals in leather production, quality control, laboratory science, polymer materials and emerging technologies.
The institution admits students into ND and HND programmes through JAMB and its admission portal. Available programmes include Leather Technology, Polymer Technology, Computer Science, Science Laboratory Technology and other specialised courses related to science and technology.
History
The Nigerian Institute of Leather and Science Technology was established in 1964 as a research and training institution focused on improving Nigeria’s leather industry. It was created to provide technical expertise in leather processing, tanning, product development and quality improvement.
Over the years, the institute expanded its mandate beyond leather research to include science and technology education. It developed academic programmes that provide students with practical skills required in industries such as leather manufacturing, footwear production, chemical processing, laboratory services and information technology.
NILEST has contributed significantly to the growth of Nigeria’s leather sector by carrying out research, providing technical support to manufacturers and training professionals who work within the leather value chain.
The institute’s headquarters is located in Samaru, Zaria, Kaduna State, where it operates laboratories, workshops and training facilities designed to support teaching, research and industrial development.
Location
Nigerian Institute of Leather and Science Technology (NILEST)
3 Leather Research Road,
Off Sokoto Road, Samaru,
Zaria, Kaduna State, Nigeria
NILEST is located close to Ahmadu Bello University (ABU), Zaria, making it part of the academic and research environment within the Samaru area of Kaduna State.
Official Website:
https://nilest.edu.ng/
Admission Portal:
https://nilest.admissions.cloud/
List of Programmes Offered by Nigerian Institute of Leather and Science Technology (NILEST)
NILEST offers National Diploma (ND), Higher National Diploma (HND) and specialised technology programmes. The institute’s programmes are designed around applied science, technology and industry-focused training.
School / Department of Leather Technology
Programmes include:
National Diploma (ND) Leather Technology
The programme provides training in leather production processes, tanning technology, leather finishing, quality control and leather product development.
Higher National Diploma (HND) Leather Technology
The HND programme provides advanced training in leather science, manufacturing processes, product design and industrial management.
Leather and Leather Products Technology
The programme focuses on modern leather production techniques, footwear manufacturing and value addition within the leather industry.
Department of Polymer Technology
- ND Polymer Technology
- HND Polymer Technology
Students are trained in polymer materials, plastics technology, material processing and industrial applications of polymer science.
Department of Science Laboratory Technology
Programmes include:
- ND Science Laboratory Technology
- HND Science Laboratory Technology (Biochemistry Option)
- HND Science Laboratory Technology (Chemistry Option)
- HND Science Laboratory Technology (Microbiology Option)
The programmes prepare students for laboratory analysis, scientific research, quality control and industrial laboratory services.
Department of Computer Science and Digital Technology
Programmes include:
- ND Computer Science
- HND Computer Science
- HND Software and Web Design
The programmes provide training in computer systems, programming, software development, web technologies and digital solutions.
Footwear Design and Innovation
Programme:
- Higher Diploma in Footwear Design and Innovation
This programme focuses on footwear design, production techniques, creativity and entrepreneurship within the footwear industry.
Admission Forms
NILEST ND Admission Form 2026/2027 Released
The Nigerian Institute of Leather and Science Technology (NILEST), Zaria, has opened applications for admission into its National Diploma (ND) programmes for the 2026/2027 academic session. Interested candidates who meet the admission requirements can apply for available programmes in Leather Technology, Polymer Technology, Computer Science and Science Laboratory Technology.
Admission into the ND programmes will be processed through the Central Admission Processing System (CAPS). Candidates are required to select NILEST as their first choice institution on JAMB and meet the minimum UTME score and O’Level requirements before applying.
The available NILEST National Diploma programmes include National Diploma in Leather Technology, National Diploma in Polymer Technology, National Diploma in Computer Science and National Diploma in Science Laboratory Technology.
Applicants must score at least 120 in the relevant subjects in the 2026 JAMB UTME. Candidates are also required to possess five O’Level credit passes obtained in not more than two sittings, including English Language and Mathematics, alongside three other relevant subjects. Applicants must also ensure that their O’Level results are uploaded to the JAMB portal.
Eligible candidates can complete the application process through the NILEST admission portal. Applicants seeking further information about the programmes or admission process can visit the official NILEST website or contact the institute through info@nilest.edu.ng for assistance.
NILEST HND Admission Form 2026/2027 is Out: Programmes, Requirements and Application
The Nigerian Institute of Leather and Science Technology (NILEST) has commenced admission into its Higher National Diploma (HND) programmes for the 2026/2027 academic session. Interested candidates who meet the admission requirements can apply for the available programmes covering Leather Technology, Polymer Technology, Science Laboratory Technology, Software and Web Design, and Footwear Design and Innovation.
The HND admission is open to candidates with the required National Diploma (ND) qualifications, valid JAMB admission letter and relevant O’Level credits. Applicants are advised to carefully review the admission conditions before submitting their applications through the NILEST admission portal.
| Programme | Programme Code/Option |
|---|---|
| Higher National Diploma in Leather Technology | HNDLT |
| Higher National Diploma in Polymer Technology | HNDPLT |
| Higher National Diploma in Software and Web Design | HNDSWD |
| Higher National Diploma in Science Laboratory Technology (Microbiology Option) | HNDSLT MCB |
| Higher National Diploma in Science Laboratory Technology (Biochemistry Option) | HNDSLT BCH |
| Higher National Diploma in Science Laboratory Technology (Chemistry Option) | HNDSLT CHEM |
| Higher Diploma in Footwear Design and Innovation | HDFDI |
Applicants for the NILEST HND programmes are required to possess a valid JAMB admission letter, National Diploma certificate or statement of result from a recognised institution, and at least five credit passes in relevant O’Level subjects. Candidates should ensure that their submitted academic records meet the requirements for their chosen programme.
Interested applicants can complete the application process online through the NILEST admission portal. Applicants who require additional information about the programmes or admission process can visit the official NILEST website or contact the institute through info@nilest.edu.ng for further enquiries.
NILEST Diploma and Certificate Admission Form 2026/2027 is Out
The Nigerian Institute of Leather and Science Technology (NILEST) has commenced admission into its Diploma and Certificate programmes for the 2026/2027 academic session. The available programmes are designed to provide technical and professional skills in footwear production, leather development, environmental science, chemical engineering technology and related areas.
The admission opportunity is open to interested candidates who meet the required academic conditions. Applicants seeking admission into the listed Diploma and Certificate programmes are required to possess at least five credit passes in relevant O’Level subjects.
The available NILEST Diploma programmes include Diploma in Footwear Design and Innovation, Diploma in Footwear Technology, Diploma in Environmental Science and Management Technology, Diploma in Chemical Engineering Technology and Diploma in Production Management. The Certificate programmes available are Certificate in Footwear Manufacture and Certificate in Hide and Skin Improvement.
Eligible candidates can complete their applications online through the NILEST admission portal. Applicants who need additional information about the programmes and admission process can visit the official NILEST website or contact the institute through info@nilest.edu.ng for further enquiries.
School Fees
NILEST school fees vary depending on the programme, academic level and approved institutional charges.
As a Federal Government-owned specialised institute, NILEST fees are generally structured to remain affordable compared with many private technology institutions.
Students may be required to pay charges covering:
- Registration fees
- Examination fees
- Laboratory charges
- ICT charges
- Student development fees
- Other approved institutional charges
Prospective students should confirm the latest school fees schedule through the official admission portal before making payment.
Cut-Off Mark
The required JAMB cut-off mark for NILEST admission depends on the admission session and programme.
Recent admission information indicates that ND applicants may require a minimum UTME score set by the institute and JAMB guidelines, with some programmes having different departmental requirements.
Candidates should confirm the latest cut-off mark for their chosen course before applying.
Admission Portal:
https://nilest.admissions.cloud/
Hostel / Accommodation
NILEST provides student support services for learners enrolled in its academic programmes.
Information about hostel accommodation, hostel fees and allocation procedures is provided by the institution during admission and registration periods.
Students should contact the institute directly for current accommodation arrangements.
Notable Alumni
NILEST has trained numerous professionals in leather technology, footwear production, tanning, chemical processing, entrepreneurship and related fields, many of whom contribute to Nigeria’s leather industry. However, there are limited publicly available records of individual alumni who have gained national recognition.
Official Website and Portal Links
| Resource | Link |
|---|---|
| Official Website | https://nilest.edu.ng/ |
| Admission Portal | https://nilest.admissions.cloud/ |
Contact Information
Nigerian Institute of Leather and Science Technology (NILEST)
P.M.B. 1034,
Samaru, Zaria, Kaduna State, Nigeria
Official Website:
https://nilest.edu.ng/
For current phone numbers, email addresses and admission enquiries, students should visit the official institute website.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the full meaning of NILEST?
NILEST means Nigerian Institute of Leather and Science Technology.
Where is NILEST located?
NILEST is located in Samaru, Zaria, Kaduna State, Nigeria.
Is NILEST a federal institution?
Yes. NILEST is a Federal Government institution under the Federal Ministry of Science and Technology.
When was NILEST established?
NILEST was established in 1964.
What courses does NILEST offer?
NILEST offers courses in Leather Technology, Polymer Technology, Computer Science, Science Laboratory Technology and other applied science and technology fields.
Does NILEST offer ND programmes?
Yes. The institute offers National Diploma programmes in several technology-related disciplines.
Does NILEST offer HND programmes?
Yes. NILEST offers Higher National Diploma programmes including Leather Technology, Polymer Technology, Science Laboratory Technology and Software and Web Design.
What is NILEST cut-off mark?
The cut-off mark depends on the admission year and programme requirements. Candidates should confirm the latest requirement from the institute before applying.
How do I apply for NILEST admission?
Candidates can apply through the official NILEST admission portal after meeting the required admission conditions.
TAGS
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