Welcome to Nigeria 😊

Quick Facts About Nigeria

Money and Finances

The currency in Nigeria is the Nigerian naira (NGN). The denominations of notes are 5, 10, 20, 50, 100, 200, 500 and 1,000 naira. The denominations of coins are 50 kobo, 1 naira and 2 naira.

ATM Network

ATM networks in Nigeria are reasonably good in larger cities like Lagos and Abuja, but they may be scarce or non-existent in rural areas. It is advisable to have cash with you when travelling to rural areas.

Credit Cards

Credit cards are not widely accepted in Nigeria. Only a few merchants accept Visa and Mastercard, and AMEX is not accepted at all. It is recommended to carry cash or a locally issued debit card for transactions.

Internet and Phones

In Nigeria, the average internet speed for uploads and downloads is relatively slow, with an average speed of 6.9 Mbps. There are no major government interferences in internet use, but there are reports of occasional censorship of online content.

Phone Plans and SIM Cards

Nigeria has several telco companies including MTN, Airtel, Glo, and 9mobile. The average cost of a mobile phone plan in Nigeria is relatively low, with prepaid plans starting at around NGN 1,000 ($2.60) per month. There are generally no sim compatibility issues in Nigeria.

Dialling to Nigeria

To call Nigeria from another country, dial +234 followed by the area code and phone number. The area codes for major cities in Nigeria include 1 for Lagos, 2 for Abuja, and 3 for Port Harcourt.

Transport Around Nigeria

Air Travel

Nigeria has several major airports, including Murtala Muhammed International Airport in Lagos, Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in Abuja, and Port Harcourt International Airport. These airports serve both domestic and international flights.

Train Travel

Nigeria has a limited inter-city train network, with trains operating between Lagos and Kano. Journey times can range from 25-33 hours depending on the route, with ticket prices starting at around 4000 Nigerian Naira ($10 USD).

Metro / Local Trains

Nigeria has a few local train systems within major cities, such as the Lagos Light Rail and Abuja Light Rail. These are still under construction and are not fully operational yet.

Buses

Nigeria has a extensive bus network, with both private and public operators serving the country. Fares and journey times vary depending on the route and operator, but a bus journey from Lagos to Abuja can take around 10-12 hours and cost around 5000 Nigerian Naira ($13 USD).

Rideshare

There are several rideshare companies operating in Nigeria, including Uber, Bolt, and OgaTaxi. Average prices vary depending on the city and distance travelled.

Driving by Car

Driving in Nigeria can be challenging due to poor road conditions, heavy traffic, and frequent roadblocks. The speed limit is typically 50 km/hour in cities and 100 km/hour on highways. Nigeria uses right hand drive.

Local Customs

In Nigeria, it's common to greet with a handshake, but it's also acceptable to bow for more traditional greetings. Tipping is not expected, but it's appreciated for exceptional service. When speaking with strangers, it's polite to use formal titles like 'Mr.' or 'Ms.' until given permission to use first names. Men and women usually address each other with courtesy titles or their given names.

Health and Diseases

Medical System

In Nigeria, healthcare is provided by both public and private sectors. The public sector is mainly funded by the government and provides free or low-cost primary and secondary healthcare services, but these services are often underfunded and understaffed. Private healthcare is also available but can be expensive. A visit to a doctor in Nigeria can cost anywhere from $10 to $100, depending on the location and type of healthcare facility.

COVID Situation

Nigeria has been strongly affected by COVID-19. As of October 2021, there have been over 205,000 confirmed cases and over 2,700 deaths. The government has implemented measures such as travel restrictions, curfews, and lockdowns to help control the spread of the virus. It is important to follow guidelines and take precautions to prevent infection.

Common Health Risks

Malaria is a major health risk in Nigeria, particularly during the rainy season. Food and water-based diseases such as typhoid fever, cholera, and hepatitis A and E are also common, so it is important to take precautions when eating and drinking. Other diseases to be aware of include yellow fever, meningitis, and Lassa fever, which is a viral hemorrhagic fever that is transmitted through contact with infected rodents.

Laws and Regulations

Alcohol Consumption

In Nigeria, alcohol is legal and widely consumed, but there are restrictions on its sale and consumption in some states with predominantly Muslim populations. Drinking in public is also prohibited in some areas.

Recreational Drugs

Drug use, including recreational drug use, is illegal in Nigeria with severe penalties for possession and distribution. The country has a zero-tolerance policy towards drug use.

Pre-Marital Relationships

In Nigeria, pre-marital relationships are not illegal, but they are often frowned upon in the more conservative parts of the country. However, there are laws prohibiting forced marriages and early marriage.

LGBTQ and Same-Sex

Homosexuality is illegal in Nigeria with severe penalties in some parts of the country. Same-sex relationships are not recognized, and the LGBTQ community faces discrimination and persecution.

Firearms / Guns

In Nigeria, firearm possession is strictly regulated and illegal without a license. Violations result in heavy fines and imprisonment. Firearms are mainly used by security forces and hunters.