Introduction
The sections below cover what most visitors need to know, from entry requirements through to practical local tips.
TRAVEL ADVICE
Everything You Need to Know Before Travelling to Nigeria
Whether travelling to Nigeria for business, leisure, a family celebration, a conference, investment opportunities or to reconnect with family and friends, careful preparation makes a journey smoother, safer and more enjoyable.
This guide provides practical information to help you prepare. As entry requirements and travel regulations can change, we recommend confirming the latest official information before departure.
Before You Travel
Before travelling to Nigeria, remember to:
- Check your passport is valid.
- Confirm whether you require a visa before travelling.
- Arrange travel insurance.
- Check vaccination and health requirements.
- Book flights and accommodation.
- Arrange airport transfers where possible.
- Review customs regulations.
- Ensure access to local currency or suitable payment methods.
- Read our Before You Travel Checklist before departure.
Entry Requirements
Entry requirements vary depending on nationality and purpose of visit. Before travelling, confirm:
Always check the latest requirements published by the Nigerian Immigration Service or your nearest Nigerian Embassy or High Commission.
- Passport validity requirements.
- Visa requirements.
- Immigration documentation.
- Return or onward travel requirements.
- Health documentation where applicable.
Visa Information
Many visitors require a visa before travelling to Nigeria. Silhouette Travels can assist eligible travellers with visa guidance and application support. Visit our Visa & Travel Documentation page or speak to one of our travel consultants for further assistance. [NEW PAGE POINTER: see our new Visa & Immigration guide for entry categories and embassy information.]
Health Requirements
Before travelling:
[NEW PAGE POINTER] For full guidance on vaccinations, malaria prevention and travel health, see our new Travel Health & Vaccinations page.
Always consult your doctor or travel health clinic before travelling.
- Check recommended vaccinations.
- Obtain a Yellow Fever Certificate where required.
- Seek professional advice regarding malaria prevention.
- Arrange suitable travel insurance with medical cover.
- Carry sufficient prescription medication for the trip.
Currency
Nigeria's official currency is the Nigerian Naira (₦). We recommend:
- Carrying a combination of payment cards and local currency.
- Using authorised banks, bureaux de change or ATMs.
- Avoiding carrying large amounts of cash.
- Checking exchange rates before travelling.
Electricity
Nigeria uses 230 volts, 50Hz, and Type G plugs (the same three-pin plug used in the United Kingdom). Travellers from countries using different plug types should bring an appropriate travel adapter.
Mobile Connectivity
Visitors can usually purchase a Nigerian SIM card or use an eSIM where supported. Major mobile networks include MTN, Airtel, Glo and 9mobile. Check roaming charges with your home network before travelling.
Airport Arrival
Nigeria has several international airports. [NEW PAGE POINTER: see our new Nigerian Airports Guide for airport-by-airport detail, terminals and ground transport.] Upon arrival:
- Keep your passport and travel documents readily available.
- Follow immigration and customs instructions.
- Collect your luggage before proceeding through customs.
- If Silhouette Travels has arranged your airport transfer, follow the arrival instructions provided before departure.
Ground Transportation
Silhouette Travels can assist with airport transfers, chauffeur services, executive transportation, vehicle hire and group transportation. Where possible, we recommend arranging transportation before arriving in Nigeria.
First Time Visiting Nigeria?
A few local tips can make a first visit far more enjoyable.
Plan for traffic: congestion can be significant, particularly in Lagos and, during busy periods, Abuja. Always allow extra travel time for meetings, airport journeys and appointments.
Arrange airport transfers before you travel where possible, and avoid accepting transport from unofficial individuals outside the airport.
Carry some cash: many hotels, restaurants and larger retailers accept payment cards, but some businesses still operate on a cash basis.
Stay connected: a local SIM card or eSIM makes communication significantly easier during your stay.
Respect local customs: Nigeria is home to hundreds of ethnic groups, languages and cultures; courtesy and patience go a long way.
Business visitors: business relationships are highly valued in Nigeria. Confirm appointments in advance, dress professionally, carry business cards where appropriate, allow additional travel time between meetings, and expect some time spent building the relationship alongside the business itself.
Stay safe: keep valuables secure, use reputable transportation providers, avoid displaying large amounts of cash, keep emergency contacts available, and follow local and official travel guidance.
Need Help Planning Your Trip?
Silhouette Travels can assist with:
- Flights
- Hotels
- Visa services
- Travel insurance
- Airport transfers
- Ground transportation
- Corporate travel
- Group travel
- Meetings & Events (MICE)
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a visa?
Visa requirements depend on your nationality and purpose of travel. Please check official Nigerian Immigration guidance before travelling.
Is Yellow Fever vaccination required?
Many travellers are required to present a valid Yellow Fever vaccination certificate. [NEW PAGE POINTER] See our Travel Health & Vaccinations page for full vaccine guidance and the malaria prevention section.
Can Silhouette arrange airport transfers?
Yes. We can arrange airport transfers and other transportation services in many locations across Nigeria.
Can Silhouette book hotels throughout Nigeria?
Yes. We can arrange accommodation ranging from business hotels to luxury resorts across the country.
Can Silhouette assist with business travel?
Yes. We provide Corporate & Business Travel Management services for organisations and individual business travellers.
NEXT STEP
Request a Travel QuoteReady when you are.
Need help applying this guidance to your trip? Speak to the Silhouette team.