Nigeria
Subregion: Western Africa
Nigeria is a country located in Western Africa. The Capital City is Abuja. The government is a Federal presidential republic. The official language of the country is English, however the national languages are Hausa, Yoruba and Igbo. Nigeria has freedom of religion in their country but the population is about half Muslim and half Christian. Healthcare in Nigeria is public and private. The public healthcare system is lacking modern care and is of low quality. However, private healthcare is very expensive since the country doesn’t regulate pricing in the private sector.
Safety:
There are some safety concerns in Nigeria. Scamming is rampant but they can be avoided with precautions since the majority of these are online. There are high security issues due to current elections. Terrorism, civil unrest in rural areas, and kidnapping is rampant in the country at this time. Do not travel to the states Adamawa, Anambra, Akawa Ibom, Bauchi, Bayelsa, Borno, Cross Rivers, Delta, Gombe, Imo, Jigawa, Kaduna, Kano, Katsina, Kebbi, Niger, Plateau, Rivers, Sokoto, Taraba, Yobe and Zamfara. The new currency change has become an issue at ATMs and banks, since there is a country wide cash shortage. Random protests and terrorist attacks may occur, be sure to avoid these areas since these can become violent very quickly. Women should travel around with at least one other person. Driving can be hazardous as the roads are poorly maintained and vehicles can be in poor condition. International drivers permits are not recognized. During the rainy season, roads can be washed away or flooded. It is suggested that you seek car-hire services for transportation at the airport or major hotels.
Cultural Customs:
Islamic & Christian holidays are observed along with three non-religious national holidays. Traditionally, the clothing worn by the local people ranges based on the tribe or ethnic group they are attached to. More western clothes are worn in the large cities. Alcohol is not widely consumed in the north where there is more islamic influence. However, in the south there are more options. Generally nigerian cuisine is eaten by hand. It is common to have stew with fufu or dough made from corn or millet. Locals tend to eat their meals out of a communal serving bowl. In urban areas, food has more of a western influence and is eaten with forks and spoons. Handshakes & well wishes are used when greeting someone. It is considered rude to not do this prior to proceeding to business. The right hand is used for eating and greeting since the left hand is considered dirty since it is used for personal toiletry.
Geography & Weather:
Nigeria’s climate is tropical but a little more semi-arid to the north.
In the city of Kano, located to the north of the country, the average temperature ranges from 70 to 87 degrees Fahrenheit. The coldest month is January with a median temperature of 70 degrees F and April being the hottest month with a median temperature of 87 degrees F. Monsoon season is from May - September, the rainiest month is July. The sun shines all year round, just a little less during monsoon season.
In Abuja, which is in the center of the country, the average temperature ranges from 74 to 89 degrees Fahrenheit. The coldest month is August with a median temperature of 74 degrees F and February is the hottest month with a median temperature of 89 degrees F. In December and January the Harmattan blows through. Monsoon season is from April - September, with the rainiest months being August & September.
In the city of Lagos, located to the southern coast of the country, the average temperature ranges from 79 to 86 degrees Fahrenheit. The coldest month is August with a median temperature of 79 degrees F and March being the hottest month with a median temperature of 86 degrees F. The heat and humidity in Lagos can be unbearable. Monsoon season is from April - October, the rainiest month is June. This area is very cloudy even during the dry season, so don’t expect a lot of sun. The sea temperature is 82 degrees year round.
Economy:
The economy consists of several small sectors but the largest is petroleum, which is their largest source of income. Crude petroleum & petroleum gas are the primary exports. The main agricultural crops are cassava, beans, cashews and cocoa beans. Tourism brings in about 16 billion in revenue annually.
Currency/Foreign Exchange Rate:
Nigerian Naira (NGN)
NGN 1.00 = USD .0022
Country Stats:
Population (2020):
206,139,589
Median Age:
18.1
Life Expectancy:
55.75
Visa Requirements:
Needed for Entry for US Citizens? Yes
Cost: Tourist Visa, single entry, 90 day $160
Multiple entry Visa, 1 or 2 year $160
Visas on arrival are available for US Citizens for business purposes only
*Visas can not be paid for with cash*
*Additional Information*
Yellow fever vaccination on WHO Yellow Card is required for entry. The card should be carried with you at all times. Polio vaccination required for entry.
Citizenship Requirements:
Dual citizenship - Yes, for people who have never had dual citizenship in another country.
Naturalization - Nigerian citizenship may be acquired upon fulfillment of the following conditions: Person has resided in Nigeria for at least fifteen consecutive years, able to contribute to the progress of the nation, is of good character, and proof of ability to care for oneself financially. All applications must be submitted to the Ministry of Interior in person and approved by the President of Nigeria.
Residency Requirements:
A permanent residency visa (PRV) is available for people looking to relocate into Nigeria as expats. You must have your tourist visa and apply at the Nigerian Consular Mission. This visa is generally good for 2 years.
Resources:
Nigeria Ministry of Information
Ministry of interior for dual citizenship
U.S. Embassy Abuja
1075 Diplomatic Drive
Central District Area, Abuja
Nigeria