Nigeria
Africa's largest economy, bursting with culture and opportunity.
Capital
Abuja
Overview
Nigeria is Africa's most populous nation and largest economy — a powerhouse of culture, commerce, and creativity. Lagos is one of the world's fastest-growing megacities, Abuja is a planned capital of wide boulevards and embassies, and the country's diversity spans 250+ ethnic groups and every landscape from rainforest to desert.
Quick Facts
Population
220 million
Languages
English (official), Hausa, Yoruba, Igbo
Currency
Nigerian Naira (NGN)
Timezone
GMT+1
Climate
Tropical in south, semi-arid in north
Visa on Arrival
Yes — available
Diaspora Programme
Nigerians in Diaspora Organisation (NIDO)
Tourist Attractions
Culture, Coast, and Contrast
Nigeria's tourism potential is vast and largely untapped. Lagos offers Tarkwa Bay beach, the National Museum, and the buzzing Lekki Arts & Crafts Market. Abuja's Aso Rock, Zuma Rock, and the Nigerian National Mosque are iconic. The ancient city of Kano, with its 1,000-year-old dye pits and Emir's Palace, is a UNESCO-listed treasure. Yankari National Park in Bauchi hosts elephants and warm springs. The Niger Delta's creeks and Calabar's carnival are unmissable.
Lodging & Hotels
World-Class Hotels in Major Cities
Lagos and Abuja have excellent international hotel options. The Eko Hotel & Suites, Radisson Blu, and Four Points by Sheraton anchor Lagos's luxury tier. In Abuja, Transcorp Hilton and Sheraton Abuja are the top choices. Serviced apartments in Lekki, Victoria Island, and Maitama (Abuja) are popular with returnees. Budget travellers find good value in guesthouses across all cities.
Housing & Real Estate
Dynamic Market, Premium Locations
Lagos real estate is among Africa's most expensive. Victoria Island and Ikoyi are the premium addresses — modern apartments from $1,500/month. Lekki Phase 1 and Ajah offer newer developments at lower prices. Abuja's Maitama, Asokoro, and Wuse 2 are the capital's top neighbourhoods. Port Harcourt has a strong rental market driven by the oil industry. Foreign nationals can own property through a Certificate of Occupancy.
Healthcare
Private Sector Leading the Way
Nigeria's private healthcare sector has grown significantly. Lagos University Teaching Hospital (LUTH) and National Hospital Abuja serve the public sector. For returnees, Eko Hospital, Reddington Hospital, and Lagoon Hospital in Lagos offer international-standard care. Medical evacuation insurance is recommended. The National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA) is expanding coverage. Pharmacies are abundant in urban areas.
Food & Cuisine
The Richest Cuisine on the Continent
Nigerian food is bold, complex, and deeply satisfying. Jollof rice (the original, Nigerians insist), egusi soup, pounded yam, suya (spiced grilled meat), and moi moi are beloved staples. Lagos's restaurant scene is world-class — Nok by Alara, Craft Grill, and Shiro offer elevated dining. Buka restaurants serve authentic home cooking. The street food scene — from akara to roasted corn — is vibrant and essential.
Immigration & Visas
ECOWAS Free Movement + Diaspora Pathways
Nigerian citizens abroad can return freely. Foreign nationals of Nigerian descent can apply for a Nigerian passport or residence permit. ECOWAS citizens have free movement rights. The Nigerian Investment Promotion Commission (NIPC) facilitates business investment. Visa on arrival is available for many nationalities. The NIDO (Nigerians in Diaspora Organisation) provides support for returnees.
Transportation
Busy Airports, Improving Roads
Murtala Muhammed International Airport (LOS) in Lagos and Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport (ABV) in Abuja are the main international gateways. Domestic flights connect all major cities. Lagos traffic is legendary — Bolt and Uber are essential. The Lagos BRT (Bus Rapid Transit) and Blue Line rail are improving urban mobility. Inter-city travel by road is common; air travel is recommended for long distances.
Safety & Security
Urban Safety with Regional Awareness
Lagos and Abuja are generally safe for residents who take standard urban precautions. Petty crime occurs in crowded areas. The Niger Delta and northeast regions have security challenges — check current advisories before travel. Gated estates with security are the norm for returnees. The Lagos State Security Trust Fund has improved urban policing. Emergency number: 112 (national).
Ready to Make the Move?
Sankofa Homecoming Can Help
Our Ghana-based team provides hands-on relocation support across the continent. From housing to community integration — we've done this before.