Nigeria, located in West Africa, is famed for its diverse cultures, bustling cities, and natural attractions like the Yankari National Park. Home to iconic landmarks such as Lagos, the Osun-Osogbo Sacred Grove, and the Zuma Rock, Nigeria offers a vibrant blend of cultural heritage and natural beauty. The country’s geography includes coastal mangroves, savannas, and highlands.

Nigerian culture combines Yoruba, Igbo, Hausa, and British influences, reflected in its music like Afrobeat, art, and cuisine featuring jollof rice, suya (skewered meat), and egusi soup. Known for its dynamism and warm hospitality, Nigeria is a captivating destination for cultural adventurers and nature lovers.

Documents

Driving

Currency

Legal

Safety

Flights

Travel Documents: What You Need to Know

Passport Requirements

Non-EU/EEA/Swiss citizens: A valid passport is generally required for entry into Nigeria.
Passport validity: Ensure your passport is valid for at least 6 months beyond your planned departure date from Nigeria.

Visa Requirements

Visa-exempt countries: Citizens from several nations, including most ECOWAS (Economic Community of West African States) countries, can enter Nigeria with a valid passport and stay for up to 90 days within a 180-day period without a visa.
Visa-required countries: Travelers from nations not on the visa-exempt list must possess a valid passport and obtain a visa prior to entering Nigeria, either through an embassy, high commission, or the e-Visa system.

Special Entry Provisions

No specific provisions exist for holders of Schengen, US, or UK visas or residence permits to enter Nigeria without a visa; a Nigeria-specific visa is required unless from an ECOWAS country.
Travelers must have confirmed onward or return tickets, proof of sufficient funds for their stay, and a yellow fever vaccination certificate.

ID Card Entry

The following citizens can enter Nigeria using only a valid national ID card:
- ECOWAS member states (e.g., Ghana, Benin, Senegal)

Visa Types

Type "C" Visa: Allows entry and stay for 90 days within 180 days. Can be single, double, or multiple entry, with validity up to 3 years.
Type "D" Visa: For stays longer than 90 days. Valid for one year with a 90-day stay period, allowing application for a residence permit.

Important Links

Official Nigeria e-Visa application portal: https://www.immigration.gov.ng/visa
Visa regime information: https://www.immigration.gov.ng/visa-services
Nigeria Immigration Services: https://www.immigration.gov.ng/

Additional Considerations

Length of stay: Visa-free stays for ECOWAS citizens are typically limited to 90 days within a 180-day period.
Purpose of visit: Different rules apply for work, study, or long-term stays; contact the nearest Nigerian embassy or high commission.
COVID-19 measures: Always check for current health-related entry requirements (e.g., vaccination certificates or testing) via the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC).

Driving in Nigeria

Current Toll Roads

As of 2025, Nigeria has several toll roads, including:
- The Lagos-Ibadan Expressway (under reconstruction with toll gates).
- The Lekki-Epe Expressway (Lagos).
Toll rates vary based on vehicle type and distance traveled. For the most current rates, visit the official Federal Ministry of Works website: https://www.works.gov.ng/

Toll Rates and Payment

Toll rates: Vary by vehicle type (cars, trucks, buses) and distance; check the Federal Ministry of Works for updates.
Payment Methods:
- Cash: Nigerian Naira (NGN) is accepted at all toll booths.
- Credit/Debit Cards: Major cards are accepted at most toll booths (e.g., Lekki Toll Gate).
- Electronic Toll Collection: An e-toll system is being implemented on major highways; check https://www.works.gov.ng/ for updates.

Driving in Nigeria

Drive on the right side of the road.
Seat belts are mandatory for all vehicle occupants.
Speed limits:
- Urban areas: 40 km/h
- Rural roads: 80 km/h
- Highways: 110 km/h
Road conditions: Vary; urban roads in Lagos, Abuja, and Port Harcourt are generally good, but rural roads can be poorly maintained, especially during the rainy season (April to October). Exercise caution due to traffic and security risks.
International Driving Permit (IDP) is recommended alongside your national driver’s license for stays up to 3 months; longer stays require a Nigerian driver’s license.

Important Considerations

Vignette System: Nigeria does not use a vignette system, but tolls are required on certain roads—check locally.
Road Safety: Remain vigilant due to aggressive drivers, poor road conditions in rural areas, and banditry or kidnapping risks in northern and southeastern regions. Avoid night driving outside urban areas.
GPS and Maps: GPS is generally reliable in cities, but keep an updated physical map as a backup, especially in rural areas.
Emergency Number: Dial 112 for emergencies (police, ambulance, and fire).

Useful Links

Federal Ministry of Works: https://www.works.gov.ng/
Ministry of Transportation: https://www.transportation.gov.ng/
E-Nigeria Services Portal: https://www.services.gov.ng/

Nigeria Currency

The official currency of Nigeria is the Nigerian Naira (NGN).

Key Information

Banknotes: 5, 10, 20, 50, 100, 200, 500, 1000 NGN
Coins: 50 kobo; 1, 2 NGN
Symbol: ₦

Currency Exchange

Exchange services available at banks, Murtala Muhammed International Airport (Lagos), and major hotels in Lagos and Abuja.
ATMs widely available in urban areas for direct NGN withdrawals (major UK, US, and Euro cards accepted).

Payment Methods

Cash is preferred, especially in rural areas.
Credit/debit cards are accepted in cities, hotels, and larger establishments in Lagos, Abuja, and Port Harcourt.

Travel Tips

Inform your bank of travel plans.
Carry some cash for small purchases and rural areas due to limited card acceptance.
Check for currency conversion fees when using cards; unofficial exchanges may carry risks.
For current exchange rates, visit the Central Bank of Nigeria website: https://www.cbn.gov.ng/rates/exchrates.asp

Legal Essentials for Traveling in Nigeria

Understanding local laws and regulations is crucial for a safe and compliant visit. Below are key legal considerations for travellers in Nigeria, updated as of 2025.

Local Laws & Restrictions

Drugs: Strict penalties for possession or trafficking, including lengthy prison sentences or execution. Even small quantities can lead to criminal charges.
Alcohol & Smoking:
- Public intoxication is frowned upon and may result in fines or detention; alcohol is restricted in some northern states under Sharia law.
- Smoking banned in indoor public spaces and on public transport.
Cultural Sensitivities: Avoid discussing sensitive political or religious issues, especially related to Boko Haram, regional secessionism, or Islam in the north.
LGBTIQ+ Rights: Same-sex relationships are illegal, with penalties up to 14 years in prison (death penalty in some northern states under Sharia law). 2SLGBTQI+ travelers should carefully consider the risks of traveling to Nigeria.
Photography: Restricted near government buildings, military sites, or sensitive installations. Always ask permission for portraits of locals, especially in rural areas.

Duty-Free Limits

Alcohol: 1L spirits | Tobacco: 200 cigarettes or 50 cigars.
Cash: Declare amounts over $10,000 USD (or equivalent).

Prohibited Items

Narcotics, weapons, certain pharmaceuticals, and pornography.
Counterfeit goods (may face fines or confiscation).

Luggage Issues

Report lost/damaged luggage within 7 days at the airport via a Property Irregularity Report (PIR).

Complaints

Submit grievances to the Nigeria Tourism Development Corporation or local police stations.

Beach Access

Public beaches must allow free access within 2.5 meters of the shoreline. Wheelchair access is legally mandated on major beaches like those in Lagos (e.g., Lekki Beach).

Key Resources

Nigeria Tourism Development Corporation: https://www.tournigeria.gov.ng/tourist-rights (Tourist rights & complaints).

Nigeria Travel Safety

Nigeria is generally safe for travellers in some areas, but with significant risks due to crime, terrorism, and instability in certain regions. Travellers should remain aware of health precautions, road safety, and emergency protocols. Below is a concise guide to staying safe and healthy in Nigeria.

Safety Overview

Crime: Petty theft (e.g., pickpocketing) and violent crime (e.g., armed robbery, kidnapping) are common, especially in Lagos, Abuja, and the Niger Delta. Violent crime against tourists is less common but significant in northern regions due to Boko Haram and banditry.
Solo/Female Travelers: Generally safe in urban areas during the day with caution; avoid traveling alone at night or in rural zones, especially for women, due to kidnapping and gender-based violence risks.

Road Safety

Driving is risky due to heavy traffic, aggressive drivers, and poor rural road conditions, compounded by banditry on highways like the Abuja-Kaduna road.
Avoid night driving outside major cities due to unlit roads, security risks, and frequent accidents.
Seat belts and helmets (for motorbikes) are mandatory, though enforcement varies.

Health Risks

Food/Water Safety:
- Avoid tap water; drink bottled or purified water.
- Eat well-cooked food to avoid diarrhea, cholera, or typhoid.
Vaccinations:
- Required: Yellow fever (for all travelers over 1 year old).
- Recommended: Hepatitis A, typhoid, polio, hepatitis B, rabies (for long-term stays), malaria prophylaxis, and COVID-19.
Insect-Borne Diseases: Malaria, dengue, and Lassa fever are widespread; use repellent and bed nets.
Altitude Sickness: Minimal risk, as no areas exceed 2,410 meters (Chappal Waddi).

Medical Facilities

Hospitals: Private facilities like Reddington Hospital in Lagos offer higher standards. Rural areas often lack advanced care.
Pharmacies: Available in cities; stock essential medications, but supplies can be inconsistent.
Insurance: Ensure coverage includes medical evacuation.

Emergency Contacts

General Emergency: 112 (works for police, ambulance, and fire).
Ambulance: 112 | Fire: 112 | Police: 112 or 122.
Tourist Police (Lagos): +234 803 598 1030.