By John Ogunsemore
An increasing number of Nigerians, especially the youths, are choosing to emigrate primarily to seek better opportunities abroad. This search for greener pastures in other climes is commonly called ‘Japa’.
The United States, United Kingdom, Canada, Italy, Finland, Brazil, Australia and Germany already cumulatively play host to millions of Nigerians. However, many of these nations have begun to adopt tougher immigration policies, making ‘japa’ more difficult.
Amid economic challenges at home, many more Nigerians are seeking to explore the possibility of a better life in other nations.
Below are 10 nations that require no visa or offer visa-on-arrival for Nigerians.
1. Barbados
Barbados is an eastern Caribbean island and an independent British Commonwealth nation.
Ranked as one of the Caribbean’s leading tourist destinations, this paradise is known for its beautiful beaches and vibrant culture.
Barbados’s population is predominantly of African ancestry. Like Nigeria, Barbados moved towards political independence in the 60s but only transitioned to a republic in 2021.
Nigerian passport holders can travel to Barbados without a visa for a limited stay. However, a potential traveller must have proof of return and onward flights, all documents required for their next destination, documents proving the purpose of travel, and proof of sufficient funds for the intended length of stay.
2. Dominica
Known for its lush rainforests and stunning waterfalls, Dominica is another Caribbean Island which Nigerian passport holders can travel to without a visa for a limited stay.
3. Kiribati
With a permanent population of just under 120,000 people and a total land area of 811 km2, Kiribati is a small Pacific Island nation with stunning coral reefs and pristine beaches. The nation comprises 32 atolls (series of islets) and one remote raised coral island, Banaba. Fun fact: Kiribati is the only country in the world located simultaneously in all four hemispheres: the Northern, Southern, Western, and Eastern hemispheres. A Nigerian passport holder can visit Kiribati without a visa.
4. Micronesia
The Federated States of Micronesia is a country spread across the western Pacific Ocean comprising more than 600 islands. With diverse cultures and stunning natural beauty, Micronesia is open to visits to Nigerian passport holders and does not require a visa.
5. Saint Kitts and Nevis
St. Kitts and Nevis is a Caribbean Island nation with beautiful beaches and a relaxed atmosphere.
The federation of Saint Kitts and Nevis is divided into fourteen parishes (states), nine of them on Saint Kitts and five on Nevis, with the capital city Basseterre located on the former.
6. Vanuatu
Vanuatu is a South Pacific Island nation with stunning volcanic landscapes and crystal-clear waters.
The country is made up of roughly 80 islands that stretch 1,300 kilometres, offering scuba diving at coral reefs, underwater caverns and wrecks such as the WWII-era troopship SS President Coolidge.
7. Rwanda
Rwanda is a landlocked country in East Africa known for its stunning landscapes and wildlife.
Often referred to as the “Land of a Thousand Hills,” Rwanda has emerged from the dark shadows of the infamous genocide of 1994 to become one of Africa’s most progressive nations, driven by tourism, agriculture, and technology.
Some popular tourist attractions include Volcanoes National Park, Nyungwe Forest National Park, Lake Kivu and the Kigali Genocide Memorial.
8. Benin Republic and West African neighbours
Benin Republic is a West African country with a diverse cultural heritage which borders Nigeria to the West.
Nigerian passport holders can travel to Benin and other West African nations without a visa by virtue of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS)’s Protocol on Free Movement, Right of Residence and Establishment.
9. Cameroon
Cameroon is a Central African country with a mix of cultures which borders Nigeria to the East. There are an estimated seven million Nigerians in Cameroon, with the majority of them resident in Western Cameroon.
10. Chad
The Republic of Chad is a landlocked country in Central Africa with a rich history and unique culture which also borders Nigeria to the East. Nigeria and Chad have forged decades-long economic, cultural and security ties.
It is noteworthy that visa requirements can change, so it is always best to consult a registered travel agency or check the latest information with the relevant embassy or consulate before making travel plans.