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Nigeria

Standard Coverage

West Africa • NGA

Last updated: October 31, 2026

Travel Information
AI-Generated

Nigeria, often called the Giant of Africa, offers a vibrant tapestry of rich cultural heritage, bustling urban centers, and diverse landscapes. Visitors can explore everything from historic ancient cities to stunning natural wonders, making it a compelling destination for adventurous travelers.

Visa Requirements

Visa on Arrival
e-Visa / ETA Available

Most travelers require a visa to enter Nigeria. An electronic visa (e-visa) or Visa on Arrival (VoA) is available for eligible applicants, particularly business travelers and tourists, provided they apply and receive approval in advance.

Typically Required Documents

  • Valid passport with at least six months of remaining validity
  • Completed visa application form
  • Recent passport-sized photographs
  • Proof of accommodation or invitation letter
  • Evidence of yellow fever vaccination
  • Proof of sufficient funds for the duration of the stay

Popular Attractions

1

Olumo Rock in Abeokuta offers breathtaking views of the city and carries significant historical importance as a shelter for the Egba people during tribal wars.

2

Lekki Conservation Centre in Lagos features a sprawling nature reserve with the longest canopy walkway in Africa, perfect for bird watching and spotting monkeys.

3

Zuma Rock, located near Abuja, is a massive granite monolith often referred to as the Gateway to Abuja and is considered a national symbol.

4

The Ogbunike Caves in Anambra State are a network of tunnels and chambers, holding deep spiritual and cultural significance to the local communities.

5

Nike Art Gallery in Lagos is one of the largest art galleries in West Africa, showcasing a vast collection of Nigerian arts, crafts, and textiles.

Local Customs & Etiquette

Always use your right hand to give or receive items, as using the left hand is considered disrespectful in Nigerian culture.

Respect the elders by greeting them politely, often with a slight bow or by addressing them with appropriate honorifics.

Dress modestly when visiting religious sites or rural areas to show respect for local traditions and values.

Asking for permission before taking photographs of individuals or sensitive locations is standard etiquette and highly appreciated.

Nigerians value hospitality, so it is polite to accept small refreshments when offered during visits.

Safety Tips

Avoid traveling to regions identified as high-risk by your home country's embassy and stay informed about the local security situation.

Stick to major roads and travel during daylight hours, as road safety and security can be compromised at night.

Use reputable transportation services or drivers recommended by your hotel rather than hailing random cabs.

Keep your passport and important documents in a secure location and carry only photocopies while exploring the city.

Be cautious about sharing your location or travel plans with strangers, and maintain a low profile in public areas.

AI-generated content. Visa requirements vary by nationality — verify with the official embassy before travel.

Entry Requirements

Yellow Fever

Source: CDC

Not Required

Not required when traveling directly from non-risk countries.

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Yellow Fever

Source: CDC

Required

Proof of vaccination is required for all travelers aged 9 months or older arriving from countries with risk of yellow fever transmission.

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Diphtheria

Source: CDC

Required

Vaccination against diphtheria is essential to protect against disease. If you are traveling to an affected area, you should be up to date with your diphtheria vaccines.

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Polio

Source: CDC

Required

Ensure you are up to date on your polio vaccines before international travel.

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Recommended Vaccines & Precautions

Core Vaccines

Routine vaccines (MMR, Tdap, Polio, Varicella, Influenza)

Source: CDC

All ages

Ensure all routine vaccinations are up to date before travel to prevent common infectious diseases.

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Routine Vaccines (MMR, Tdap, Polio, Varicella, Influenza)

Source: CDC

All ages

Ensure you are up-to-date on routine vaccines before travel.

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Routine vaccines (MMR, Tdap, etc.)

Source: CDC

All ages

Recommended for all travelers to ensure immunity against common diseases.

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COVID-19 vaccination

Source: CDC

All ages

To reduce the risk of contracting COVID-19.

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Measles-Mumps-Rubella (MMR) vaccine

Source: CDC

All ages

Measles cases are rising in many countries around the world. All international travelers should be fully vaccinated against measles with the MMR vaccine.

Ensure you are up to date on your MMR vaccine before international travel.

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For Most Travelers

Insect bite prevention

Source: CDC

All ages

Necessary to prevent mosquito-borne diseases like malaria and others found in the region.

Use EPA-registered insect repellent and wear protective clothing.

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Food and water safety precautions

Source: CDC

All ages

Essential to prevent travelers' diarrhea and other foodborne or waterborne illnesses.

Eat only food that is cooked and served hot; drink only bottled or treated water.

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Insect Bite Prevention

Source: CDC

All ages

Necessary to prevent diseases such as Malaria and others transmitted by insects.

Use EPA-registered insect repellent, wear long-sleeved clothing, and sleep in air-conditioned or well-screened rooms or under insecticide-treated bed nets.

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Food and Water Safety Precautions

Source: CDC

All ages

Necessary to prevent foodborne and waterborne illnesses.

Eat and drink safely by consuming only pasteurized dairy, well-cooked foods served hot, and bottled or treated water.

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Hepatitis B

Source: CDC

All ages

For travelers who may be exposed to blood or body fluids.

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Cholera vaccine

Source: CDC

All ages

Especially if visiting affected areas and at risk of exposure.

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Hepatitis A

Source: CDC

All ages

Recommended because you can get hepatitis A through contaminated food or water in Nigeria, regardless of where you are eating or staying.

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Preventive measures for food and water safety

Source: CDC

All ages

To avoid food or waterborne illnesses.

Practice safe food and water precautions.

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Typhoid

Source: CDC

All ages

Recommended for most travelers, especially those staying with friends or relatives or visiting smaller cities or rural areas.

Typhoid can be contracted through contaminated food or water.

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Hepatitis B vaccination

Source: CDC

All ages

Recommended for unvaccinated travelers of all ages traveling to Nigeria.

Consult with a healthcare provider to determine if this vaccination is appropriate for your travel plans.

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Hepatitis A vaccination

Source: CDC

All ages

Recommended for unvaccinated travelers one year old or older going to Nigeria.

Infants 6 to 11 months old should also be vaccinated against Hepatitis A. The dose does not count toward the routine 2-dose series.

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Chikungunya vaccination

Source: CDC

All ages

There is elevated chikungunya risk in Nigeria. Chikungunya vaccination may be considered for people traveling or moving to this location if they are planning to stay for an extended period of time (for example, 6 months or more).

Consult with a healthcare provider to determine if this vaccination is appropriate for your travel plans.

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Cholera vaccination

Source: CDC

All ages

Active cholera transmission is widespread in Nigeria. Cholera is rare in travelers. Certain factors may increase the risk of getting cholera or having severe disease. Avoiding unsafe food and water and washing your hands can also help prevent cholera.

Vaccination may be considered for children and adults who are traveling to areas of active cholera transmission.

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Yellow fever vaccine

Source: CDC

All ages

Required for travelers from certain areas as detailed in entry requirements.

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Cholera

Source: CDC

All ages

Recommended for those who may be at risk, particularly if visiting areas with active transmission.

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Insect bite prevention (e.g., mosquito repellent)

Source: CDC

All ages

Recommended to reduce the risk of insect-borne diseases such as malaria and dengue.

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Routine vaccinations (MMR, Tdap, Varicella, etc.)

Source: CDC

All ages

Vaccination is recommended as part of routine healthcare for all travelers.

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Itinerary-Specific

Meningococcal

Source: CDC

All ages

Recommended for travelers visiting the northern part of Nigeria during the dry season (December through June) or those in close contact with the local population.

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Meningococcal vaccine

Source: CDC

adult

Consider for travelers visiting the 'meningitis belt' during the dry season or if long-term stays are planned.

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Meningococcal Vaccine

Source: CDC

adult

Recommended for travelers heading to the 'meningitis belt' of sub-Saharan Africa during the dry season.

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Rabies

Source: CDC

All ages

Considered for travelers involved in outdoor and other activities in remote areas that put them at risk for animal bites.

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Hepatitis B

Source: CDC

All ages

Recommended for those who might have sexual contact with a new partner, get a tattoo or piercing, or undergo medical procedures.

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Meningococcal Vaccine

Source: CDC

All ages

Recommended for travelers visiting the northern regions of Nigeria during the dry season.

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Insect bite prevention

Source: CDC

All ages

Recommended for protection against diseases transmitted by mosquitoes.

Use mosquito repellent and wear protective clothing.

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Malaria prevention measures

Source: CDC

All ages

Recommended based on malaria risk in specific zones.

Consult with a healthcare provider for chemoprophylaxis.

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Malaria Information

Risk Area: Entire country

Chemoprophylaxis: Atovaquone-proguanil, doxycycline, or mefloquine

Seasonality: Year-round

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Risk Area: Entire country except specific areas

Chemoprophylaxis: Atovaquone-proguanil, doxycycline, or mefloquine

Seasonality: Year-round

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Risk Area: All areas of Nigeria

Chemoprophylaxis: Atovaquone-proguanil, doxycycline, mefloquine, tafenoquine

Seasonality: Year-round

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Official Sources

Authoritative Resources:

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